15 Most Influential Video Games of 2020s

Tears of the Kingdom is a fantastic video game that builds on the creative spirit of Breath of the Wild by offering many open-ended solutions and a fresh twist on combat. While some worry about performance on older Switch models, its innovative design and rich gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the series. | © Nintendo

Animal Well twists your mind with a series of clever brain teasers that feel more like puzzles than platforming challenges. The game delights with gorgeous pixel art, dynamic lighting, and a finely tuned physics system that makes every interaction feel satisfying. | © Shared Memory LLC

Dragon’s Dogma 2 redefines action RPGs with its innovative pawn system, adding depth and cooperative strategy to every battle. Unique stealth missions and dynamic combat further elevate this unique adventure. | © Capcom

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II delivers an immersive adventure with its realistic medieval world, engaging characters, and epic combat that pulls you into every battle. The detailed setting, complete with authentic music and careful attention to historical detail, makes it a must-play experience for RPG fans. | © Warhorse Studios

Street Fighter 6 brings back classic fighters like Blanka and Ryu while introducing fresh gameplay elements such as streamlined controls and RPG-style World Tour. As part of a fighting game renaissance, this game reinforces Street Fighter's status as a cultural icon that continues to evolve and inspire. | © Capcom

New Horizons significantly raises the bar for the series with best character customization ever, offering an extensive range of options for hair, eyes, and wardrobe. With its natural outdoor design tools and fun add-ons like Happy Home Paradise, your island transforms into a creative haven. | © Nintendo

Hades surprises with a masterful balance of weapons, powers, and builds, giving players a sense of control and endless reasons to try another run. It strikes a perfect balance by being challenging yet fair, with a low-skill floor and high-skill ceiling that makes every victory feel earned. | © Supergiant Games

Cyberpunk 2077 stands out largely because it's developed by CD Projekt, the studio that brought the acclaimed Witcher series to life. Their past successes, especially with Witcher, have set high expectations, making Cyberpunk 2077 one of the most anticipated titles in recent years. After a rather disappointing launch, they got their head and the game and delivered an epic game after all. | © CD Projekt

Helldivers 2 is a rare multiplayer experience that makes everything perfect, giving players a lot of freedom and exhilarating gameplay. Its smart progression system avoids nickel-and-diming, offering a fair experience without relying heavily on paid battle passes. | © Arrowhead Game Studios

Wordle is a simple and engaging word puzzle that challenges players to guess the hidden word each day. Its minimalist design and viral appeal have not only made it hugely popular but also inspired countless copies worldwide. | © The New York Times

Alan Wake 2 offers a wide range of gameplay and emotions, mixing wild party and musical scenes with intense shooter fights and thoughtful detective work. The stunning visuals, defined by a dramatic interplay of light and shadow, seamlessly integrate the environment into the overall experience. | © Remedy Entertainment

Elden Ring brings the skill-based formula of soulsborne games to a wider audience by offering challenges that are hard yet fair. Instead of punishing you for every mistake, it rewards persistence by letting you progress your way, making each victory feel truly earned. | © FromSoftware

Balatro uses real playing cards to cut down the learning curve of typical card games while combining the unique roguelike elements that keep every run fresh. With flashy graphics, and unpredictable bosses, it delivers that addictive "just one more run" feel, offering an experience that’s unlike any other card game. | © LocalThunk

Vampire Survivors is a surprisingly fun game that pulls you in with its simple yet addictive gameplay and fast-paced battles. With its low price and clever design, it offers endless rewards and a fresh twist on the classic arcade style. | © Poncle

Baldur's Gate 3 showed the entire industry that big, complex, story- and character-rich RPGs with no microtransactions can be profitable and award-winning. While it may not change everything overnight, it shows that there is still a strong place in the market for classic video games. | © Larian Studios