Thousands of video games have graced our screens over the last several decades, but only a small fraction can be described as truly timeless. For many developers and software designers, it’s difficult to keep pace with technological evolution, especially in the realms of graphics and framerates. As a result, timeless games need a wow factor that goes beyond simple aesthetics. Keep reading for 10 of the best examples across the spectrum of video gaming entertainment.
Grand Theft Auto IV
High on the list of most people’s best video games of all time, Grand Theft Auto IV, often referred to as GTA IV, completely and utterly blew people away after its release in 2008. Rockstar Games designed the most expansive map in the series at the time, but the immersive narrative involving Niko Beric is what keeps gamers consistently coming back for more.
Mario Kart Wii
Nintendo’s Mario Kart is undeniably one of the most fun racing series, and Mario Kart Wii is arguably the best. Nothing beats the excitement of steering with the motion-controlled remote or blasting red shells at your fellow racers.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
The game that inspired countless kids to pick up a skateboard and head to the park, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is a definitive cultural behemoth as well as just a video game. Although there are numerous modern skateboarding titles, this 2000 game is still a cult classic.
Elden Ring
Elden Ring is a brand new 2022 title from FromSoftware that has sent shockwaves through the RPG community. We haven’t seen this much excitement generated by a game since Skyrim. Elden Ring sold more than 13m copies within the first month of its release. Read an Elden Ring review to see what all the fuss is about. It’s a timeless game in the making!
Space Invaders
Perhaps the quintessential arcade-style game, Space Invaders has had countless iterations over the years. While the more modern versions bring an added level of complexity and graphics, most people crave the old-school 2D approach that made the original Space Invaders game so fun.
Skyrim
Finding a game that matches Skyrim’s huge map and lore-driven atmosphere is still challenging. Released in 2011, it resumed the Elder Scrolls series, with the action centering on the Dragonborn. Players continue to enjoy the open-world map, and the sheer wealth of extra side quests and easter eggs means you can play Skyrim for hours on end without getting bored.
Starburst
While most people think of conventional video games when asked about classic games, you mustn’t discount options such as online slots. NetEnt’s timeless Starburst slot was released in 2012 and is still one of the most beautiful games in the slots world. This is undeniably the best online slot of all time, featuring impeccable HD three-dimensional graphics, free spins bonus features and lucrative wild icons. If you don’t believe us, this Starburst slot review rates it highly.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Few Zelda titles don’t become immediate classics after their release. However, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a cut above the rest. This open-world title was released in 2017, and almost single-handedly saved Nintendo’s Wii U console from obscurity. Landscapes in Breath of the Wild morph from mountain ranges to forests and vast steppes. With over 100 Shrines of Trials to be found, there’s no limit to the adventuring to be done during this iconic Legend of Zelda title.
FIFA 14
EA’s FIFA series has consistently set a benchmark regarding football-themed video games over the years. Each iteration is pretty impressive, but FIFA 14 is often regarded as the best. As the first FIFA game for the new PS4 and Xbox One, it featured the brand-new Ignite Engine, subsequently enhancing the gameplay and providing a jaw-dropping level of realism. EA also continued to upgrade the game’s popular Ultimate Team online multiplayer platform. As a result, FIFA 14 is commonly seen as the highest-rated FIFA game and a certified classic that will be played for years into the future.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Not only is Rockstar Games responsible for the legendary GTA series, but it’s also the maker of Red Dead Redemption 2. This epic Wild West-themed game is critically acclaimed for its realism, stunning graphics and a gargantuan open map. It just doesn’t get much better!