The world of video games has seen some titles achieve extraordinary success. Apart from becoming bestsellers, they managed to influence the popular culture. Let’s have a look at what makes the top-selling games of all time so special.
The first place on the list belongs to Tetris—a best-selling video game of all time, followed by Minecraft, Grand Theft Auto V, Wii Sports, PUBG, Mario Kart 8 + Deluxe, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Red Dead Redemption II, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Overwatch, Super Mario Bros., Pokémon Gen 1 and Terraria.
Tetris
Tetris is a tile-matching puzzle game created in 1984 by Russian software engineer Alexey Pajitnov. It gained immense popularity in the late 1980s. The game’s simple gameplay involves players rotating and arranging falling tetrominoes (geometric shapes composed of four square blocks each) to create horizontal lines without gaps. The game’s catchy music based on the Russian folk song Korobeiniki has already become iconic.
As the horizontal lines are completed, they disappear, preventing the stack of shapes from reaching the top of the playing field. The game ends when the stack of Tetris blocks grows to the top, leaving no space for additional pieces.
The game’s advantage lies in its accessibility and universality. Tetris has no language or cultural barriers. It has been released on nearly every gaming platform available: early home computers, consoles, modern smartphones, and tablets. This has played a significant role in its high sales figures.
Tetris has sold over 520 million copies across all platforms (according to IGN). This includes physical and digital copies. The game has been the subject of numerous academic studies exploring its impact on the human brain, including research into the ‘Tetris Effect’, where players continue to see Tetris blocks and game patterns in their mind’s eye after playing.
Minecraft
Minecraft, developed by Mojang Studios and created by Markus Persson (known as “Notch”), was officially released as a full version in November 2011 after earlier public testing phases. This sandbox game distinguishes itself with unique blocky graphics and open-world format.
Players engage in an expansive world made entirely of blocks, which they can mine, craft, and build with virtually no limitations. The game’s two main modes, Survival and Creative, offer different play styles: Survival mode requires players to gather resources and maintain their health. In contrast, the Creative mode provides unlimited resources and the ability to fly, emphasising creativity.
Minecraft allows players to create worlds and structures, including simple cottages and elaborate castles. There is even an education edition being used in classrooms worldwide to teach various subjects through interactive projects. The game’s modding community introduces new content, gameplay mechanics, and worlds for players to explore.
By 2023, Minecraft sold over 300 million copies. The game has grown into a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a range of merchandise, spin-off games, and books. The game’s influence extends into social media, with a massive presence on YouTube and Twitch, where players share their gameplay with others.
Grand Theft Auto V
Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) is an action-adventure game. It was developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games in 2013. It is the fifth main instalment in the series and has become one of the best-selling games of all time, with over 185 million copies sold (according to IGN).
GTA V is set in the fictional state of San Andreas, Southern California. The game follows the story of three criminals—Michael De Santa, Franklin Clinton, and Trevor Philips—who are pulled into a series of heists by corrupt government officials and powerful crime lords.
As they navigate through the criminal underworld, players can switch between the three characters at any time to complete missions.
GTA V stands out with its massive open-world environment. Players can freely roam around the city, exploring landmarks and interacting with NPCs to take on side missions or cause chaos. The game also features an online multiplayer mode.
GTA V received critical acclaim for its immersive gameplay, detailed graphics, and engaging storyline. It has won several awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2013. Despite being released almost a decade ago, GTA V remains a fan favourite and maintains a strong player base thanks to frequent re-releases for new game consoles, including PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
Wii Sports
Wii Sports is a sports simulation video game developed and published by Nintendo. The game was released in 2006 as a launch title for Nintendo’s seventh-generation console, the Wii.
The game was meant to showcase the motion-sensing capabilities of the Wii Remote. It consists of five different sports games—tennis, baseball, bowling, golf, and boxing. Players control their characters by mimicking the movements required for each sport.
Wii Sports was an instant success, with over 82 million copies sold worldwide (according to IGN). It was the first video game to ever be included in the American Academy of Paediatrics’ “active gaming” recommendations, showcasing its impact on promoting physical activity.
The game is not targeted towards a specific demographic and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. This made it a popular choice for family gatherings and parties. It was sold as a pack-in game with the purchase of the Wii console in many regions, reaching a wider audience.
PUBG
PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds is an online multiplayer battle royale game. It was developed and published by PUBG Corporation. It was first released in March 2017 for Microsoft Windows, and then introduced for Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and mobile devices.
The game is set on a remote island, where up to 100 players parachute onto the map and scavenge for weapons and equipment to eliminate other players while avoiding being killed themselves. The last player or team standing wins the round. As the gameplay area decreases over time, players are forced into closer proximity. This causes intense and unpredictable battles.
PUBG was sold over 75 million times across all platforms (according to IGN), without counting the free mobile downloads. The game is appreciated for its realistic graphics and immersive gameplay. It has a strong competitive scene, with professional tournaments and leagues being held worldwide.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a racing game developed by Nintendo. It was released in 2014 for the Wii U console and later re-released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch with additional features.
In the game, the players control characters from the Mario franchise and race against each other on tracks. To gain an advantage, they use various items and power-ups. Up to 4 players can compete against each other locally or online. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features 48 courses, including new ones inspired by real-world locations, e.g. London and Tokyo.
One of the major additions in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the Battle Mode, where players compete against each other in various arenas while trying to pop balloons or collect coins. The Deluxe version includes all the downloadable content from the original game.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has been praised for its graphics, smooth gameplay, and extensive track selection. It has sold almost 64 million copies worldwide (according to IGN).
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, developed by Bethesda Game Studios, is a seminal open-world role-playing game released in November 2011. Set in the fictional province of Skyrim, part of the vast continent of Tamriel, the game immerses players in a fantasy world.
Skyrim follows the story of a player-created character who must defeat Alduin—a dragon who is prophesied to destroy the world. The game offers a vast open-world environment, allowing players to explore and complete quests at their own pace.
The game’s graphics are still considered top-notch, even after almost a decade of its release. Skyrim offers extensive character customisation options. Even after completing the main story, players can continue to explore new challenges in the game.
Skyrim has sold over 60 million copies worldwide and has been available on PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch. It is also available as a VR version. The game has won numerous awards, including Game of the Year at the 2011 Spike Video Game Awards.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 is an action-adventure game developed by Rockstar Games. It was released in 2018 and sold in over 55 million copies (according to IGN).
The game is set in the late 19th century in a fictionalised version of the Western United States. Players take on the role of Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang. Their goal is to survive in a rapidly evolving world.
Players are free to explore the vast landscape, hunting, fishing, and interacting with non-player characters. The game introduces a new morality system. The choices made by the player affect the overall story and character development.
Red Dead Redemption 2 boasts stunning graphics and an exceptional soundtrack. It was warmly welcomed by a loyal fanbase of the first game—Red Dead Redemption, released in 2010. The new version won Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2018.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, a game developed by CD Projekt Red, was sold over 50 million times (according to IGN). It is based on the fantasy novel series written by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. Its virtual world is densely populated with creatures drawn from Slavic mythology and fantasy.
Its success can be attributed to its engaging storyline, immersive open-world environment, and impressive graphics.
The Witcher 3 follows the story of Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter known as a “Witcher”. He is on a mission to find his adopted daughter, Ciri, who is being pursued by the Wild Hunt—an otherworldly force determined to capture the girl for her powers. As Geralt travels through the war-torn land of Temeria, he must make tough choices and face dangerous enemies.
In the world of The Witcher 3, players explore lush forests, bustling cities, and mysterious swamps. They can complete side quests and discover hidden treasures along the way. To make it realistic, the game features dynamic weather and day-night cycles.
Overwatch
Overwatch, developed by Blizzard Entertainment, is a team-based multiplayer first-person shooter game. It was released in 2016 and, since then, has sold over 50 million copies.
In Overwatch, players are divided into two teams of six. They can choose from a roster of 30 heroes. Each of them has their own set of skills and abilities.
The objective of the game is to complete various tasks while battling against the other team. They include capturing and defending control points, escorting payloads, or eliminating the enemy team. The fast-paced action and strategic gameplay make Overwatch an exciting game to play.
Overwatch quickly established a significant presence in the esports scene. The Overwatch League, launched by Blizzard, brought professionalism comparable to traditional sports leagues, including city-based teams and regular seasons.
Super Mario Bros.
Super Mario Bros. is an iconic video game that has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide since its release in 1985. Developed by Nintendo, it follows the adventures of two plumbers, Mario and Luigi, as they navigate through various levels to rescue Princess Peach from the evil Bowser.
The game is a side-scrolling platformer with bright graphics and catchy music. It introduced popular elements such as power-ups, warp pipes, and coins that have since become staples in many video games.
Super Mario Bros. was sold over 48 million times (according to IGN). Its success led to the creation of a whole franchise with numerous sequels and spin-offs, e.g., Super Mario World, Super Mario 64, and Super Mario Odyssey.
Pokémon Gen 1
Pokémon Gen 1 refers to the initial set of Pokémon games that were released in Japan in 1996 and in other parts of the world in 1998. These games were developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for their popular handheld console, the Game Boy.
The first generation consists of three main games: Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue. In 1999, an enhanced version of these games, Pokémon Yellow based on popular anime series, was released. They introduced players to the world of Pokémon, featuring 151 species of monsters to catch, battle with and train.
The game introduced Pikachu, Charizard, and Mewtwo—iconic characters that appeared in TV series, movies, trading card games, toys, and books. Pokémon Gen 1 was sold over 47 million times (according to IGN).
Terraria
Terraria is an action-adventure sandbox game that was first released in 2011. It was sold in over 44.5 million copies (according to IGN). It offers a multiplayer mode that allows players to team up with friends and tackle challenges together.
Developed by independent game studio Re-Logic, Terraria takes place in a randomly generated 2D world. Players can explore, build, and fight against various enemies. It combines the elements of classic platformer games with crafting and survival mechanics.
Players are free to do whatever they want in the game—whether it is building structures, battling monsters, or exploring the virtual world. This gives them a sense of freedom and creativity.
The game features various items, weapons, and armour that can be crafted or found throughout the world. With hundreds of different weapons to choose from, players have endless options when it comes to fighting off enemies.
Game localisation for global success
The success of a product on a global scale is made possible by effective game localisation. By adapting a game to different languages and cultures, developers make their titles more accessible to a wider audience. Localisation introduces cultural references, humour, and gameplay elements that resonate with local audiences. This attention to detail transforms a game from a regional hit into a global phenomenon.
If you need help with localising your game, talk to us. We will explain the process in detail. Our team of specialists is always happy to assist you with your concerns.
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