10 Video Games That Defined The 2010s

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As video games evolved significantly during the ’90s and early 2000s, we saw a tremendous explosion in the quantity of high-quality game releases.

As funding increased, along with an expanded pool of creators and a greater number of individuals eager to share narratives via interactive platforms, the industry expanded significantly, becoming one of the world’s most prominent.

Consequently, the last ten years produced experiences that have solidified the richness of the works we appreciate now, leaving no era behind in terms of things to envy.

In various preferences, certain gaming trends might receive mixed reactions. Nevertheless, there’s no denying the indelible mark left by specific games and franchises, as evidenced by this compilation of top ten video games that significantly shaped the 2010s.

10. Hollow Knight

The Indie Games Representative

In addition to standing out as one of the top-tier indie games ever made, Hollow Knight has raised the bar across multiple aspects, often equaling or even surpassing quality levels usually achieved by big-budget AAA titles.

Initially, it was proven that standalone games can match or even surpass the quality of big-budget titles within their respective genres. They deliver top-notch gameplay, visuals, and storytelling experiences.

Moreover, although not the first to initiate it, their contribution played a crucial role in popularizing the Metroidvania style we witness thriving today, inspiring many developers to follow in Team Cherry’s footsteps.

When considering independent games from the last ten years, a variety of options may spring to mind; however, few can rival Hollow Knight in terms of scale, polish, or impact.

9. Pokémon GO

A Video Game For Everyone

It’s true that I might not personally favor its title, but there’s no denying that Pokémon GO has accomplished feats that are on par with only a handful of video games throughout history.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but marvel at how far Niantic’s creations have spread, seemingly omnipresent across the globe. They’ve masterfully tapped into the augmented reality genre, weaving a magical thread that links millions of us together in the real world.

The way it taps into the dream of becoming a Pokémon master is simply remarkable, and it struck a chord with every group, irrespective of their interest in gaming.

Reflecting on video games during the 2010s, it’s hard not to ponder over the immense influence and deep resonance that Pokémon GO left.

8. The Last Of Us

Between Cinema And Gaming

In the 2010s, one standout trait of many video games was their capacity to engage people who weren’t particularly keen on exploring gaming in depth.

Amongst early pioneers, The Last of Us stood out by merging a deep, immersive experience with both broad accessibility and top-notch production quality. This was often accomplished through mobile games, multiplayer platforms, or social media; however, The Last of Us managed to excel in this unique blend.

By offering captivating camera work, visually breathtaking scenes, and a powerful soundtrack, the series managed to attract players who were accustomed to various genres of video games, thereby revealing the expressive and artistic capabilities that video games can possess.

While it may not be outright innovative or groundbreaking, the emotional resonance that The Last of Us achieves through its meticulously designed storyline is undeniably significant and deserves attention.

7. The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild

Redefining Open Worlds

Given that open-world games were a standout genre during the past decade, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild undoubtedly ranks as one of the most distinguished titles in this period.

Nintendo skillfully revamped their approach yet again, guiding the genre towards richer, more unpredictable environments, offering fewer guidelines and fostering a more authentic gaming experience instead.

Ever since its debut, few open-world games have deviated significantly from the blueprint it established, indicating a profound influence on the genre. This is notable given the numerous other games in this category that were launched around the same period.

In terms of setting trends and fostering creativity, The Developer reached a remarkable peak with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

Or, more concisely: The Developer’s greatest trend-setting feat was achieved in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

6. Red Dead Redemption 2

Rockstar’s Best Video Game

Through multiple console eras, Rockstar Games has solidified itself as a highly prosperous developer, due to several compelling factors.

Given that they consistently put out games that are strong candidates for Game of the Year, it’s challenging not to feature them on a list such as this, especially when considering what might be their most impressive work – Red Dead Redemption 2.

Building upon the strong bases laid by its predecessor and utilizing their extensive knowledge of open-world gameplay, the journey of Arthur Morgan stands out as exceptional in every way.

When it comes to vivid environments, intricate details, and compelling narratives with authentic characters, Red Dead Redemption 2 is a strong candidate for being exceptional in every aspect.

Instead of being revolutionary or trailblazing, it excels by perfecting a classic action structure, which is worthy of praise on its own.

5. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

The Most Immersive Fantasy

In the realm of role-playing games, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim stands out as one of the most captivating examples of immersion and freedom experienced within digital gaming.

Remarkably, even when compared to modern gaming standards, the immense scope of Bethesda’s universe is awe-inspiring. This vast world is filled with countless mysteries, numerous side missions, unique events, an array of characters, and a plethora of adventures waiting to be explored.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve always appreciated the rich, immersive worlds that The Elder Scrolls series offers. However, what truly sets apart the latest installment is the way they’ve seamlessly woven in community-created mods, extending the game’s life far beyond what I ever expected.

At the peak of video content production, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim served as a rich resource, enabling numerous individuals to gain knowledge and develop affection for the field by vicariously experiencing others’ work.

In many ways, Skyrim stands alone as a unique gaming experience, offering an unprecedented level of immersion, ambiance, and imaginative storytelling. Few other games have had the impact on the gaming community that Skyrim has.

4. Grand Theft Auto 5

Generational Omnipresence

Among the countless video games throughout history, few have achieved the same level of success, longevity, and popularity as Grand Theft Auto 5. This game stands out in numerous aspects, making it difficult to even list all its remarkable qualities – such as its prowess as a third-person shooter, an aspect often undervalued by many.

The game manages to stay relevant and captivating, whether it’s via its campaigns or online play, much like a timeless artifact, drawing in tens of thousands of fresh players annually, even as the years go by.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but admire how Grand Theft Auto V has managed to remain fresh and engaging despite the ever-changing landscape of games, technology, and trends in the market. It truly stands as a timeless masterpiece in open-world gaming.

This video game serves as a universally acclaimed masterpiece for various developers, content creators, seasoned gamers, and even those who play casually. Its brilliance transcends individual experiences or gaming backgrounds.

3. Fortnite

The New Video Game Reference

Initially introduced as an extra playstyle option for a multi-faceted game, Fortnite emerged as a pivotal moment in the contemporary gaming world.

This multiplayer game transformed the market in a manner seldom seen throughout history, leaving only a handful of instances as comparisons. Its impact extended to shaping video game creation across the board and influenced a whole cohort of gamers.

In terms of setting trends in the Battle Royale genre, pushing the boundaries of Battle Passes and seasons, and elevating the idea of a video game as an interconnected ecosystem to unprecedented heights, Fortnite has achieved colossal status beyond comparison using conventional measurements.

Over the years, Epic Games has refined a strategy that they have come to excel at, growing increasingly massive with every partnership. This interconnected universe now encompasses a wide array of digital entertainment brands.

Assessing it based on conventional notions of success is merely insufficient, for it transcends those standards and has permeated human society as a universal benchmark. Moreover, while it serves as an entertaining free-to-play time-consuming activity, this is but one aspect of its considerable achievements.

2. Minecraft

The Century’s Best-Selling Video Game

It’s quite an understatement to say that Mojang might be classified as a one-hit wonder studio, given their role in creating the worldwide phenomenon known as Minecraft. Such a characterization appears more like a compliment than a criticism.

Similar to Fortnite, but from a different time period, Minecraft captivated an entire generation of both novice and experienced gamers, providing limitless opportunities unlike any other game.

The impact of Minecraft, being the top-selling title of the century, taught in schools, transformed into a movie, and setting a standard for indie game development, is truly astounding when considering its far-reaching influence.

Minecraft has an exceptional and far-reaching impact, catering to a multitude of gamers with diverse preferences and identities. It can be found across every major gaming platform since its debut, making its influence unprecedented.

Regardless of age or device – be it a toddler with a tablet, a young adult on a laptop, a teen using a smartphone, or a grandparent on a computer – Minecraft has captivated and remained popular across the board, earning an undeniable iconic status.

1. Dark Souls

Generational Masterpiece

Despite being less renowned than the other two games on this list, Dark Souls exerted a profound influence over the 2010s, setting the stage for an entire genre to follow in its footsteps.

Almost every game seems to have adopted one or both approaches – using a fractured storyline for narrative purposes or drawing inspiration from the tough challenges found in classic titles, making it hard to find one that hasn’t followed suit.

In a remarkable fashion, Dark Souls significantly expanded and transformed existing genres, not by being the very first or introducing something entirely novel, but rather by inspiring countless developers.

Various genres such as shooting, racing, platforming, and puzzle games have borrowed elements from the Dark Souls series, weaving them into their gameplay. This influence has been significant, reshaping both new and established franchises over the years, leaving a lasting impact on the gaming medium.

Over the past decade, it’s nearly impossible to fully grasp the world of video games without experiencing the impact of Dark Souls – a groundbreaking masterpiece that has cultivated one of the most fervent and extensive communities in the industry.

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2025-04-13 18:40