Over the past few decades, video games have evolved from simple pixelated experiences to slot complex, immersive worlds that rival the best films and literature. The title of “best game” is often debated, but there are certain milestones in the history of gaming that have fundamentally changed the industry, influencing countless games to come. These titles didn’t just push the limits of technology—they shaped the way we think about video games as an art form and cultural phenomenon.

One of the most important games in this evolution is Super Mario 64. Released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64, Super Mario 64 was the first major 3D platformer, setting the bar for how 3D environments could be navigated. Its revolutionary controls, wide-open spaces, and non-linear design were groundbreaking for its time and influenced generations of games that followed. Nintendo’s flagship franchise became synonymous with quality, and this game is often credited with transforming the video game industry from 2D to 3D, paving the way for everything from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to Grand Theft Auto V.

In the world of role-playing games, Final Fantasy VII remains a game-changing classic. When it was released in 1997 on the PlayStation, it introduced players to an expansive world, a deep narrative, and unforgettable characters like Cloud Strife and Sephiroth. The game’s mix of turn-based combat and cinematic storytelling set a new standard for RPGs and pushed the PlayStation console into the limelight. It wasn’t just the gameplay but the emotional depth of the story that resonated with fans. This game solidified the PlayStation’s dominance and set the stage for the entire Final Fantasy franchise to become a cornerstone of gaming culture.

Moving into the modern era, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt represents the culmination of years of innovation in RPG design. This game took open-world exploration and narrative complexity to new heights, creating a massive, living world that felt both rich and believable. With its branching storylines, memorable characters, and moral ambiguity, it became a reference point for modern RPGs. It’s a perfect example of how video games have evolved from simple pastimes into an immersive art form that offers experiences unlike any other medium.

These games are just a few examples of the milestones that have reshaped the gaming landscape. Whether through technological innovation or artistic excellence, each of these titles has had a lasting impact on the industry, pushing boundaries and setting new standards for what video games can achieve. The “best” games are not just those that are fun to play; they are the ones that change the way we think about gaming, challenge the medium, and influence everything that comes after them.