The gaming industry has blossomed into a multi-billion-dollar behemoth, captivating audiences worldwide with its diverse array of experiences and cutting-edge technology. With a global revenue exceeding $150 billion annually, gaming has solidified its position as one of the most lucrative sectors in entertainment. From blockbuster titles to indie darlings, the market offers something for every type of gamer, spanning various genres, platforms, and playstyles.
Top Ranked Games
These are our top 10 picks for the best games in the current market.
Game Reviews
Platform: Nintendo Switch
In “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” players embark on an epic journey as Link, the legendary hero, in a vast and immersive open-world adventure. Set in the kingdom of Hyrule, the game introduces players to a stunningly beautiful and expansive world filled with diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, and challenging dungeons to explore. As players uncover the secrets of Hyrule, they’ll encounter a cast of memorable characters, including the enigmatic Princess Zelda and the menacing Calamity Ganon.
One of the game’s standout features is its innovative gameplay mechanics, which allow for unprecedented freedom and creativity. Players can traverse the world using a variety of methods, including climbing, gliding, and even surfing on shields. The dynamic physics engine adds an extra layer of realism, allowing players to interact with the environment in unexpected ways.
In addition to its open-world exploration, “Breath of the Wild” features a deep and engaging story that unfolds as players progress through the game. From uncovering the mysteries of the ancient Sheikah technology to facing off against powerful enemies and bosses, players will find themselves immersed in an unforgettable adventure that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming. With its stunning visuals, immersive gameplay, and rich storytelling, “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” is a masterpiece that captivates players from start to finish.
Pros
Cons
- Immersive Open World: Explore the vast kingdom of Hyrule, filled with breathtaking landscapes and intricate dungeons.
- Innovative Gameplay: Dynamic physics-based mechanics offer endless possibilities for exploration and puzzle-solving.
- Captivating Story: Embark on an epic quest to save Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Calamity Ganon.
- Performance Issues: Some players experience frame rate drops, especially in handheld mode.
- Weapon Durability: The constant need to replace weapons due to breakage can be frustrating.
- Learning Curve: The game’s open-ended nature may intimidate newcomers to the series.
Approximate Revenue: Over $1.4 billion
Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” is suitable for players aged 10 and up. It contains mild violence and fantasy themes, making it accessible to a wide audience of gamers who enjoy adventure and exploration.
Platform: PlayStation 4
“The Last of Us Part II” is a gripping and emotionally charged action-adventure game that serves as a sequel to the critically acclaimed “The Last of Us.” Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal infection that turns humans into monstrous creatures, the game follows the journey of Ellie, a young survivor seeking justice and redemption in a world consumed by violence and despair.
As players navigate through the beautifully rendered environments of a decaying world, they’ll encounter both allies and enemies, each with their own motivations and agendas. The game’s narrative is driven by themes of loss, revenge, and the complex nature of humanity, offering a deeply immersive and thought-provoking experience.
Gameplay in “The Last of Us Part II” combines intense combat encounters with stealth mechanics and exploration, providing players with a variety of strategies to overcome the challenges they face. From tense encounters with infected creatures to brutal confrontations with rival factions, every moment in the game is fraught with tension and danger.
With its stunning visuals, gripping storytelling, and engaging gameplay, “The Last of Us Part II” is a masterpiece of interactive storytelling that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming. Whether players are drawn to its rich narrative or its intense action sequences, the game offers an unforgettable experience that will stay with them long after the credits roll.
Pros
Cons
- Gripping Narrative: Experience a compelling story set in a post-apocalyptic world, driven by complex characters and moral dilemmas.
- Stunning Visuals: Jaw-dropping graphics and lifelike animations immerse players in the game’s hauntingly beautiful environments.
- Intense Gameplay: Engage in visceral combat and stealth mechanics, adding depth to the immersive experience.
- Controversial Plot Choices: Certain narrative decisions have polarized the fanbase.
- Pacing Issues: Some sections of the game may feel slow-paced or drawn out.
- Lengthy Cutscenes: Extended cutscenes interrupt gameplay flow for some players.
Approximate Revenue: Over $200 million
Rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), “The Last of Us Part II” is intended for players aged 17 and older due to its intense violence, strong language, and mature themes. It is recommended for mature audiences who appreciate immersive storytelling and challenging gameplay experiences.
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
“Red Dead Redemption 2” is an epic open-world action-adventure game set in the late 1800s, during the decline of the Wild West era. Players assume the role of Arthur Morgan, a rugged outlaw and member of the Van der Linde gang, as they navigate the rugged landscapes of the American frontier.
The game’s sprawling map features diverse environments, from vast plains to dense forests and snowy mountains, each teeming with wildlife and opportunities for exploration. As Arthur, players engage in a variety of activities, including hunting, fishing, and robbing trains, as they strive to survive in a harsh and unforgiving world.
The heart of “Red Dead Redemption 2” lies in its rich narrative, which follows Arthur and the Van der Linde gang as they struggle to evade the law and make a life for themselves amidst the changing times. Along the way, players will encounter a cast of memorable characters, each with their own stories and motivations, as they grapple with themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption.
With its stunning visuals, immersive world-building, and compelling storytelling, “Red Dead Redemption 2” offers an unparalleled gaming experience that transports players to the dying days of the Wild West. Whether exploring the vast wilderness or engaging in intense shootouts, players will find themselves drawn into Arthur Morgan’s journey as he confronts his own past and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
Pros
Cons
- Immersive Open World: Roam the expansive landscapes of the American frontier, teeming with life and detail.
- Rich Storytelling: Embark on an epic tale of redemption and survival in a world on the brink of change.
- Realistic Gameplay: From gunfights to hunting, the game offers a wide range of activities that immerse players in the Old West.
- Slow Pacing: The game’s deliberate pace may not appeal to all players.
- Clunky Controls: Maneuvering the protagonist can feel cumbersome at times.
- Repetitive Tasks: Some side activities can become monotonous over time.
Approximate Revenue: Over $725 million
Rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), the game is intended for players aged 17 and older due to its intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content, and strong language. It is recommended for mature audiences who enjoy immersive open-world adventures set in historically rich settings.
Platform: PlayStation 4
“God of War” (2018) is a breathtaking action-adventure game that redefines the iconic series with a fresh perspective. Set in the richly detailed world of Norse mythology, players step into the role of Kratos, a former Greek god turned mortal, and embark on an epic journey with his son Atreus.
The game follows Kratos and Atreus as they undertake a perilous quest to scatter the ashes of Atreus’ mother atop the highest peak in the Nine Realms. Along the way, they encounter a diverse cast of gods, monsters, and mythical creatures, each posing a unique challenge to overcome.
One of the game’s standout features is its seamless blend of narrative and gameplay, with emotional depth and character development woven into every aspect of the experience. As players explore the stunning landscapes of Midgard, they’ll uncover hidden secrets, solve intricate puzzles, and engage in visceral combat against hordes of enemies.
With its breathtaking visuals, gripping storytelling, and intense action, “God of War” delivers an unforgettable gaming experience that pushes the boundaries of the genre. From its epic battles to its poignant moments of reflection, the game leaves a lasting impression on players as they witness Kratos’ journey of redemption and Atreus’ coming of age in a world filled with gods and monsters.
Pros
Cons
- Compelling Narrative: Follow Kratos and his son, Atreus, on a journey through Norse mythology, filled with epic battles and emotional moments.
- Fluid Combat: Satisfying combat mechanics make every encounter a thrilling experience.
- Stunning Visuals: Gorgeous graphics and detailed environments bring the world of Norse mythology to life.
- Pacing Issues: Some players feel that the game’s pacing slows down in certain sections.
- Limited Exploration: While the world is vast, some areas feel linear and restricted.
- Repetitive Enemies: Encounter the same enemy types throughout the game.
Approximate Revenue: Over $280 million
Rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), the game is intended for players aged 17 and older due to its intense violence, blood and gore, and strong language. It is recommended for mature audiences who enjoy epic adventures and mythological storytelling.
Platform: Nintendo Switch
“Super Mario Odyssey” takes players on a delightful and imaginative journey across various kingdoms in pursuit of rescuing Princess Peach from Bowser’s clutches once again. With its vibrant and colorful open-world environments, this platformer offers a refreshing twist on the classic Mario formula.
Players control Mario as he teams up with a new companion, a sentient hat named Cappy, who grants him the ability to possess and control objects and enemies. This unique gameplay mechanic adds a layer of creativity and puzzle-solving to the gameplay, as players use Mario’s newfound abilities to navigate obstacles and uncover secrets in each kingdom.
From the bustling streets of New Donk City to the lush landscapes of the Cascade Kingdom, “Super Mario Odyssey” is brimming with charm, humor, and inventive level design. Along the way, players will encounter a colorful cast of characters, engage in thrilling platforming challenges, and collect Power Moons to power Mario’s airship, the Odyssey, in his quest to rescue Princess Peach.
Pros
Cons
- Creative Gameplay: Embark on a whimsical journey across diverse and imaginative worlds.
- Charming Characters: Encounter a colorful cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities.
- Replayability: Collect Power Moons and uncover secrets in each kingdom, offering hours of replay value.
- Lack of Challenge: Some players find the game’s main story too easy.
- Motion Controls: Certain actions require motion controls, which may not appeal to all players.
- Repetitive Structure: The game follows a similar formula in each kingdom.
Approximate Revenue: Over $200 million
Rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), “Super Mario Odyssey” is suitable for players of all ages, making it a perfect choice for families and fans of the iconic plumber’s adventures. With its infectious sense of joy and boundless creativity, this game is sure to captivate players of all ages.
Platform: Nintendo Switch
“Animal Crossing: New Horizons” whisks players away to a tranquil island paradise where they can create their own idyllic getaway. In this charming life simulation game, players assume the role of a customizable character who moves to a deserted island and sets out to build a thriving community from scratch.
From crafting tools and furniture to landscaping and befriending adorable anthropomorphic animal villagers, “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” offers a relaxing and immersive experience filled with endless possibilities. Players can fish, catch bugs, decorate their homes, and participate in seasonal events and activities, all at their own pace.
The game’s real-time clock and dynamic weather system mirror the passage of time in the real world, adding a sense of realism and depth to the gameplay. Whether players prefer to garden, socialize with friends, or simply unwind and enjoy the peaceful island life, “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” offers something for everyone.
Pros
Cons
- Relaxing Gameplay: Escape to a tranquil island paradise and live life at your own pace.
- Creative Freedom: Customize your island, house, and character to your heart’s content.
- Social Interaction: Connect with friends and family through online multiplayer, sharing experiences and trading items
- Slow Progression: Some players find the game’s pacing too slow.
- Limited Multiplayer Features: The online multiplayer lacks robust features for social interaction.
- Repetitive Tasks: Daily chores and activities can become monotonous over time.
Approximate Revenue: Over $630 million
Rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” is suitable for players of all ages. With its delightful charm, engaging gameplay, and emphasis on creativity and community, this game has become a beloved favorite among players worldwide.
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
“Cyberpunk 2077” thrusts players into the dystopian open-world of Night City, a sprawling metropolis filled with high-tech weaponry, cybernetic enhancements, and corporate intrigue. As V, a mercenary outlaw seeking a one-of-a-kind implant that holds the key to immortality, players navigate the neon-lit streets and dark alleys of this gritty cyberpunk landscape.
With its branching narrative and deep role-playing elements, “Cyberpunk 2077” offers players unparalleled freedom to shape their own destiny. From engaging in intense firefights and high-stakes heists to forging alliances and uncovering hidden secrets, every choice made by the player has far-reaching consequences that ripple throughout the game world.
Despite its ambitious scope and immersive storytelling, “Cyberpunk 2077” faced criticism upon release for technical issues and performance problems, particularly on last-gen consoles. However, subsequent updates and patches have sought to address these issues and improve the overall gameplay experience.
Pros
Cons
- Immersive World: Explore the sprawling metropolis of Night City, filled with vibrant characters and dynamic factions.
- Deep Customization: Tailor your character’s appearance, abilities, and playstyle to your liking.
- Branching Storylines: Make choices that impact the narrative and shape the outcome of your journey.
- Technical Issues: The game launched with numerous bugs, glitches, and performance problems.
- Unfulfilled Promises: Several promised features were missing or underwhelming in the final product.
- Controversy: The game’s troubled development and buggy release have tarnished its reputation.
Approximate Revenue: Over $500 million
Rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), “Cyberpunk 2077” is intended for players aged 17 and older due to its depictions of intense violence, strong language, sexual content, and drug use. As one of the most highly anticipated and controversial games of recent years, “Cyberpunk 2077” continues to captivate players with its sprawling world and complex narrative.
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mobile
“Fortnite” is an immensely popular battle royale game that drops players onto an island where they must scavenge for weapons, build structures, and outlast opponents to be the last one standing. With its vibrant cartoonish graphics and dynamic gameplay, “Fortnite” has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting millions of players worldwide.
In “Fortnite,” players can choose from various game modes, including solo, duos, and squads, each offering a unique experience and challenges. Whether it’s engaging in intense firefights, constructing elaborate fortifications, or pulling off daring feats, every match in “Fortnite” is filled with action-packed moments and unexpected twists.
With regular updates and new content additions, “Fortnite” keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting, introducing new weapons, items, and limited-time events to keep players coming back for more. Additionally, the game’s cross-platform compatibility allows players to team up with friends across different devices, further enhancing the social aspect of the experience.
Pros
Cons
- Battle Royale Action: Engage in fast-paced battles with 100 players competing for victory.
- Constant Updates: Regular content updates keep the game fresh and exciting for players.
- Cross-Platform Play: Enjoy multiplayer across different platforms, allowing you to play with friends regardless of their chosen platform.
- Building Mechanics: The building aspect of the game may not appeal to all players.
- Microtransactions: In-game purchases can give paying players an advantage over others.
- Skill Gap: New players may find it difficult to compete against experienced players.
Approximate Revenue: Over $1.8 billion
Rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), “Fortnite” is suitable for players aged 13 and older. While the game features cartoonish violence and mild language, it is generally considered appropriate for a wide range of ages, making it accessible to players of all skill levels and backgrounds.
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mobile
“Minecraft” is a sandbox video game that offers players endless opportunities for creativity and exploration. Set in a blocky, procedurally-generated world, players can mine resources, craft tools and items, build structures, and embark on adventures in a variety of game modes.
With no specific objectives or storyline, “Minecraft” allows players to play however they choose. Whether it’s constructing elaborate buildings, exploring vast landscapes, or battling monsters in survival mode, the game offers limitless possibilities for player-driven experiences.
One of the key features of “Minecraft” is its multiplayer functionality, which allows players to connect with friends and collaborate on projects or compete in minigames. From building massive cities together to participating in thrilling PvP battles, multiplayer adds a social dimension to the game that enhances its replayability and longevity.
Pros
Cons
- Creativity: Build and explore endless worlds with limitless creativity.
- Multiplayer: Play with friends online or locally in split-screen mode.
- Updates: Regular updates introduce new content and features to the game.
- Graphics: Some players may find the game’s graphics outdated.
- Learning Curve: The game can be overwhelming for new players.
- Repetitive Gameplay: Some players may find the gameplay repetitive after a while.
Approximate Revenue: Over $1 billion
Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), “Minecraft” is suitable for players aged 10 and up. The game features mild fantasy violence and occasional use of mild language, but overall, it is considered suitable for a broad audience, including families and younger players.
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) revitalizes the iconic franchise with a gripping narrative and intense gameplay. Set in a contemporary world rife with geopolitical tensions, players embark on a high-stakes journey across various global hotspots, confronting threats from both terrorists and rogue states. The game’s single-player campaign delivers a cinematic experience, blurring the lines between right and wrong as players navigate morally ambiguous situations.
In addition to the compelling story mode, Modern Warfare boasts a robust multiplayer component, offering a diverse array of maps, modes, and customization options to suit every playstyle. Whether engaging in tactical skirmishes or all-out warfare, players can test their skills against opponents from around the world.
With its realistic graphics, immersive sound design, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare sets a new standard for the FPS genre.
Pros
Cons
Realism: Modern Warfare delivers a gritty and realistic portrayal of modern combat scenarios, immersing players in intense and authentic warfare experiences.
Engaging Multiplayer: The game offers a diverse range of multiplayer modes, including classic favorites like Team Deathmatch and innovative new modes like Ground War, providing endless replayability and variety.
Cross-Platform Play: Modern Warfare supports cross-platform play between PlayStation, Xbox, and PC players, allowing for a larger player base and fostering a more vibrant and competitive community
Large File Size: Modern Warfare has a massive file size, requiring significant storage space on consoles and PCs, which can be a drawback for players with limited storage capacity.
Skill-Based Matchmaking: Some players criticize the game’s skill-based matchmaking system, which can lead to uneven matches and frustration for both casual and competitive players.
Microtransactions: The game features microtransactions for cosmetic items, which some players view as exploitative or pay-to-win, detracting from the overall experience
Approximate Revenue: Over $1 billion
Its mature themes and intense violence contribute to its age rating of “M” for Mature, suitable for players aged 17 and above. Whether embarking on a solo campaign or joining friends in multiplayer battles, Modern Warfare promises adrenaline-pumping action and unforgettable moments for gamers of all stripes.
Conclusion
The gaming industry continues to thrive, offering a vast array of experiences across different platforms and genres. With each game bringing its own unique blend of strengths and weaknesses, players are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding their next gaming adventure. Whether you’re exploring the vast landscapes of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or battling it out in the intense firefights of Call of Duty: Warzone, there’s something for everyone in the world of gaming. As technology advances and new innovations emerge, the future of gaming looks brighter than ever, promising even more memorable experiences for players around the globe.