BAFTA, the UK's independent arts charity renowned for celebrating excellence in film, games, and television, has recently announced the results of a public poll to determine the most influential video game of all time. The winner might surprise you—it's Shenmue, an action-adventure game that debuted on the Dreamcast in 1999.
In Shenmue, players follow protagonist Ryo Hazuki on his quest for vengeance after his father's murder. The game is celebrated for its detailed open-world setting, which authentically captures the essence of 1980s Yokosuka, Japan. BAFTA's recognition underscores the game's pioneering role in creating immersive, expansive gaming environments.
The runner-up in the poll was the "pioneering first-person shooter" Doom, released in 1993, followed by the iconic 1985 platformer Super Mario Bros. securing the third spot. Half-Life and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, both from 1998, completed the top five.
Interestingly, some modern blockbusters like Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite did not make the list, highlighting the enduring influence of older titles.
Yu Suzuki, the creator of the Shenmue franchise, expressed his deep honor and gratitude for the game's recognition. He reminisced about the initial vision to push the boundaries of realism in gaming, aiming to create a world and story on an unprecedented scale. Suzuki's heartfelt thanks extended to the global fanbase whose continued support has driven the series forward, hinting at more to come from the beloved franchise.
Here is the complete list of the top 21 most influential games, as voted by the public:
- Shenmue (1999)
- Doom (1993)
- Super Mario Bros. (1985)
- Half-Life (1998)
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
- Minecraft (2011)
- Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (2025)
- Super Mario 64 (1996)
- Half-Life 2 (2004)
- The Sims (2000)
- Tetris (1984)
- Tomb Raider (1996)
- Pong (1972)
- Metal Gear Solid (1998)
- World of Warcraft (2004)
- Baldur's Gate 3 (2023)
- Final Fantasy VII (1997)
- Dark Souls (2011)
- Grand Theft Auto 3 (2001)
- Skyrim (2011)
- Grand Theft Auto (1997)
Looking ahead, the 2025 BAFTA Game Awards are scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Leading the nominations are Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Astro Bot, and Still Wakes the Deep with 11, eight, and eight nominations respectively. Other notable contenders include Thank Goodness You're Here! with seven nominations, Black Myth: Wukong with six, and Helldivers 2 with five.
Reflecting on the 2024 BAFTA Game Awards, Baldur's Gate 3 emerged as a major winner, clinching five awards, including Best Game. Other winners included Alan Wake 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Viewfinder.
