Over the past decade, the gaming industry has undergone incredible transformations. Technological advancements, new storytelling methods, and evolving gameplay mechanics have redefined the way we experience video games. Some games, however, stand head and shoulders above the rest, not just because of their innovation, but also due to their emotional depth, technical excellence, and cultural impact. These best games of the decade are the titles that have shaped the gaming landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and the players who experienced them. From RPGs to action-adventure, these games continue to captivate and inspire, proving that gaming is far more than a hobby—it’s an art form.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of the most celebrated games of the last decade. Released by CD Projekt Red in 2015, it became a benchmark for open-world RPGs, blending a rich narrative with expansive, immersive gameplay. The game follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, in search of his adopted daughter, Ciri. What sets The Witcher 3 apart is its incredibly detailed world, which feels alive with lore, vibrant NPCs, and meaningful choices cendanabet that impact the narrative. Players are immersed not only in a visually stunning world but in a tale full of emotional complexity. The game’s side quests are often as compelling as its main story, creating a layered and deep experience that players can get lost in for hours. The level of detail, the branching narrative, and the way the game responds to player choices set a new standard for RPGs, making it one of the best games of the decade.
Another game that became a defining title of the 2010s is The Last of Us Part II by Naughty Dog. Released in 2020, the game is a follow-up to its predecessor, The Last of Us, and continues the story of Ellie in a post-apocalyptic world. This action-adventure game is known for its heartbreaking narrative, incredible character development, and the moral complexities of its world. Unlike many games that rely on traditional heroes and villains, The Last of Us Part II explores the consequences of violence and revenge, offering players an emotionally intense journey. The gameplay, which includes stealth, action, and exploration, complements the powerful story, making it a truly immersive experience. Its nuanced approach to storytelling and its willingness to tackle difficult themes make The Last of Us Part II not just one of the best PlayStation games but one of the best games ever made.
No discussion of the best games of the decade would be complete without mentioning Breath of the Wild. Released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild took the iconic franchise in an entirely new direction. With its open-world design, the game gave players unprecedented freedom to explore the vast kingdom of Hyrule at their own pace. Whether climbing mountains, solving puzzles, or defeating enemies, the game offers a level of player agency that was unmatched at the time. The environmental storytelling, where the game’s world tells its own story through its landscapes, ruins, and NPCs, adds depth and richness to the experience. The physics-based mechanics allowed for creative problem-solving, making each player’s journey unique. Breath of the Wild revolutionized the Zelda series and set a new standard for open-world games, making it one of the best games of the decade.
These three games—The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, The Last of Us Part II, and Breath of the Wild—are not just games; they are milestones in the evolution of interactive entertainment. They demonstrate the power of video games to tell stories, evoke emotions, and create worlds that players can truly immerse themselves in. As the gaming industry continues to innovate, these titles will remain benchmarks for future generations, proving that the best games are those that push the boundaries of what is possible in gaming.
