The gaming world has witnessed incredible evolution over the past decade, with technology advancing at a pace that continues to surprise both developers and players. As the industry has matured, so too have the expectations placed on game design, storytelling, and innovation. The best games are those that push the boundaries of these elements, creating experiences that are not just entertaining, but meaningful and unforgettable. Some of these titles have become household names, while others remain beloved by niche communities. Whether through open-world exploration, story-driven narratives, or groundbreaking gameplay, the best games of the last decade have left an indelible mark on the landscape of gaming.
One of the standout titles from the 2010s is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, a game that redefined what an RPG could be. Developed by CD Projekt Red, The Witcher 3 presented players with a vast, richly detailed world that was alive with stories waiting to be discovered. It wasn’t just the main quest to find Geralt’s adopted daughter that made the game memorable; it was the hundreds robopragma of side stories, characters, and decisions that felt meaningful. The depth of the world, combined with a mature, morally gray narrative, raised the bar for open-world RPGs. The game’s ability to make choices feel weighty, affecting the game world in significant ways, was groundbreaking at the time of its release and remains a high standard for open-world design. It’s a game that not only tells a compelling story but allows players to shape their own, making it one of the best RPGs to date.
In a completely different direction, DOOM Eternal (2020) revitalized the first-person shooter genre with an unrelenting pace and focus on pure action. Building upon the success of DOOM (2016), DOOM Eternal took the chaotic, demon-slaying action to new heights. The game’s constant momentum, high-speed combat, and stunning visuals created a visceral experience unlike anything else in recent memory. Players control the Doom Slayer as he battles through hordes of demons, using a variety of weapons and special abilities to keep the action fast and fluid. What DOOM Eternal brought to the table was a focus on player mobility and aggressive combat, making every encounter feel like a well-choreographed fight. The game rewarded players for staying on the move, using a mix of environmental hazards and weaponry to destroy the forces of hell. While its story may not have the depth of some other top-tier games, DOOM Eternal excelled in delivering an intense, fun, and challenging experience that many first-person shooters have struggled to match.
Meanwhile, Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020) provided an entirely different kind of escape. Released at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Animal Crossing became a refuge for millions of players looking for a soothing, non-competitive environment. Set on a deserted island, players could build, decorate, and cultivate their surroundings at their own pace. The game’s calming aesthetic and open-ended nature allowed players to design their perfect world, whether that meant collecting items, fishing, or simply chatting with their quirky animal neighbors. Animal Crossing provided an outlet for creativity and relaxation, offering players a break from the chaos of the real world. The game’s social aspects, including the ability to visit other players’ islands and share designs, made it a perfect fit for online play during times of social isolation. It’s a testament to how the best games don’t always have to focus on high-stakes narratives or complex mechanics; sometimes, they thrive on simplicity and offer an experience that helps players relax, unwind, and enjoy the journey.
These games—The Witcher 3, DOOM Eternal, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons—are all representative of what makes a game the best: they immerse players, offer unique experiences, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s the depth of a story, the adrenaline rush of combat, or the therapeutic nature of gameplay, these titles have proven that the best games are those that resonate deeply with players in ways that go beyond the screen. As we look ahead to the future of gaming, it’s clear that the bar has been set high by these masterpieces, and the games that follow will need to push boundaries even further to compete.
