For decades, ranking video games has been a beloved pastime. Reviews help us determine which titles deserve our attention, but the ultimate accolade is the coveted Game of the Year (GOTY) award. Every major gaming outlet, including MaagX, selects its annual winner, but The Game Awards arguably holds the most prestigious GOTY title. This article explores the best video games of the last 10 years, acknowledging that numerous upcoming releases could easily challenge this list.
A Decade of Defining Games: From RPGs to Platformers
The past decade has witnessed a remarkable evolution in gaming, with genres like RPGs, open-world adventures, and platformers reaching new heights. Let’s dive into some of the most celebrated titles that have shaped the industry.
Baldur’s Gate 3: A Genre-Defining RPG
Baldur’s Gate 3 transcends the typical GOTY conversation; it’s a contender for one of the greatest games of all time. Unless tactical RPGs aren’t your cup of tea, this game offers an almost flawless experience. Boasting well-developed characters, engaging combat, captivating storylines, and endless replayability due to impactful choices, Baldur’s Gate 3 sets a new standard for RPGs. The game’s reactivity is astounding, leaving us wondering if we’ll ever experience anything quite like it again.
Platforms: Google Stadia, Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 5, Mac
Genre: RPG, Strategy, Turn-based strategy, Tactical, Adventure
Developer: Larian Studios
Publisher: Larian Studios
Release Date: August 3, 2023
Elden Ring: Open-World Excellence
Initially, there was skepticism surrounding FromSoftware’s decision to create an open-world game. The studio’s reputation was built on intricate level design and challenging combat. Astonishingly, Elden Ring not only retained but amplified these elements. The game encourages exploration and discovery, leading to breathtaking moments of awe. Elden Ring’s open design also makes it the most accessible Souls game for newcomers.
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One
Genre: RPG, Adventure
Developer: FromSoftware
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment, FromSoftware
Release Date: February 25, 2022
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: Redefining Open-World Games
Much like Elden Ring, Breath of the Wild represents a successful transition of an established franchise into a new format. Nintendo expertly crafted a refreshing open-world experience. While some criticisms exist, such as the lack of traditional dungeons and the weapon durability system, this game revitalized not only the Zelda series but also the open-world genre as a whole.
Platforms: Wii U, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Puzzle, RPG, Adventure
Developer: Nintendo EPD Production Group No. 3
Publisher: Nintendo
Release Date: March 3, 2017
Astro Bot Rescue Mission: A Celebration of Fun
Astro Bot Rescue Mission proves that innovation isn’t always necessary for greatness. This charming platformer swept numerous awards in 2024, including GOTY. More than a nostalgic tribute to gaming history, Astro Bot is a pure celebration of fun. Every element, from its art style and powers to its music and DualSense integration, is designed to evoke joy. And it succeeds brilliantly.
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Genre: Platform, Adventure
Developer: Team Asobi
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: September 6, 2024
The Last of Us Part II: A Narrative Masterpiece
The Last of Us Part II is a divisive title, not universally recommended. However, for those who connect with its narrative, it’s a deeply impactful experience. The game’s dark and mature story takes bold risks, which divided even fans of the original. While demanding much from the player, it offers equally profound rewards.
Platforms: PlayStation 4
Genre: Shooter, Adventure
Developer: Naughty Dog
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: June 19, 2020
God of War: A Powerful Reimagining
God of War masterfully reinvented Kratos, transforming him from a one-dimensional rage-fueled character into a complex figure grappling with redemption and fatherhood. In a year of exceptional releases, God of War stood out as the best game on multiple levels.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC
Genre: RPG, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Adventure
Developer: SIE Santa Monica Studio
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: April 20, 2018
It Takes Two: Cooperative Gameplay at Its Finest
It Takes Two, a cooperative adventure, was a surprising GOTY winner. Like the developer’s previous game, It Takes Two requires two players, fully embracing its co-op design. Each new area introduces unique mechanics for both players, demanding teamwork to progress. The gameplay constantly evolves, ensuring no mechanic feels underdeveloped.
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Platform, Puzzle, Adventure
Developer: Hazelight Studios
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Release Date: March 25, 2021
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice: Mastering Sword Combat
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice contrasts sharply with Elden Ring. Offering limited player choice regarding character builds and exploration, it focuses entirely on delivering the ultimate sword combat experience. This focused approach can be divisive. If you embrace the challenge of parrying relentless boss attacks without relying on stat boosts, Sekiro may be FromSoftware’s most rewarding game. However, those who prefer more flexibility may find it less appealing.
Platforms: Google Stadia, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One
Genre: Adventure
Developer: FromSoftware
Publisher: Activision
Release Date: March 22, 2019
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: A Landmark RPG
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains an impressive RPG, but certain flaws were present even at launch. While the characters and quests are exceptional, the combat system felt serviceable at best. The game adopts a traditional open-world structure with numerous map markers, but it strives to make side activities engaging. While surpassed by some newer titles, The Witcher 3 remains a landmark RPG.
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre: RPG, Adventure
Developer: CD Projekt RED
Publisher: WB Games, cdp.pl, Spike Chunsoft, Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release Date: May 19, 2015
Overwatch: A Cultural Phenomenon
Overwatch‘s GOTY win was controversial due to its multiplayer-only focus and loot box monetization. The current version differs significantly from its 2016 release, making it easy to forget its initial impact. Overwatch offered promising characters and gameplay that, unfortunately, haven’t fully lived up to their potential for many players.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Shooter, Strategy
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment, Square Enix
Release Date: May 24, 2016
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence
These ten games represent some of the best gaming experiences of the past decade. From narrative masterpieces to innovative gameplay mechanics, these titles have shaped the industry and left a lasting legacy. Which games will define the next decade remains to be seen, but the future of gaming looks bright.
