Video games have become more than just a pastime—they are a cultural phenomenon, influencing entertainment, art, and storytelling. Some games have left an indelible mark on the industry, becoming benchmarks for what video games can achieve. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is one such game. Released in 2011, this open-world RPG transports players to the expansive land of Skyrim, where they assume the role of the Dragonborn, a hero with the power to save the world from an ancient evil. Its vast, open-ended world, rich with quests and exploration, set a new standard for open-world games. The game’s ability to allow players to create their own story within its universe made it a critical and commercial success that continues to influence RPGs to this day.
Another game that has firmly secured its place in the gaming pantheon is Red Dead Redemption 2. Released in 2018, Rockstar’s action-adventure masterpiece transports players to the dying days of the Wild West, where they step into the shoes of Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang. The game’s realism and attention to detail are unmatched, with an immersive world that reacts to players’ actions in ways that feel alive and dynamic. Red Dead Redemption 2 is not just a game; it’s an experience, blending stunning visuals, a gripping narrative, and an emotional maindikilo story about loyalty, survival, and morality. It’s a rare title that manages to make you feel connected to its world and characters in a way that few games ever achieve.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, released in 2015, is another standout title in the world of RPGs. In this game, players control Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating a vast, war-torn world full of political intrigue, mythical creatures, and difficult choices. The Witcher 3 is praised for its expansive world, complex narrative, and morally ambiguous decisions. Its detailed environments, varied quests, and compelling characters made it a Game of the Year winner and set a new standard for role-playing games. The ability to impact the game world through meaningful decisions and the depth of its lore made The Witcher 3 one of the most influential games of the last decade.
In the realm of platformers, Super Mario Bros. remains one of the most iconic and influential games of all time. Released in 1985, Super Mario Bros. revolutionized the platforming genre and laid the foundation for countless sequels and spin-offs. The game’s simple yet engaging mechanics, vibrant levels, and iconic power-ups made it a timeless classic. Mario’s jump to stardom with this game also marked the beginning of one of the most successful and enduring video game franchises in history. Its influence can be seen in every subsequent platformer, as it set the standard for level design, character development, and gameplay.
These games, from Skyrim to Red Dead Redemption 2, The Witcher 3, and Super Mario Bros., have shaped the landscape of gaming and become landmarks in the industry. Each one pushed the boundaries of what was possible in video games, from open-world exploration to immersive storytelling. They’ve shown that games can be far more than entertainment—they can be powerful vehicles for creativity, emotion, and innovation. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, these titles will remain as timeless examples of the medium’s potential.
