Is GTA 5 the Best-Selling Game Ever? The Truth Revealed (2025) 🎮

When you hear “best-selling game,” your mind might instantly jump to Grand Theft Auto V — after all, it’s a cultural juggernaut that’s sold over 215 million copies worldwide. But is GTA 5 truly the best-selling game ever? Spoiler alert: the answer might surprise you! In this deep dive, we unravel the sales saga of GTA 5, compare it with other gaming legends like Minecraft and Tetris, and explore what really makes a game a blockbuster hit. Plus, we reveal why GTA Online’s ongoing success has kept Rockstar’s masterpiece in the spotlight for over a decade.

Stick around as we break down the top 15 best-selling games of all time, dissect the secret sauce behind their success, and give you our expert verdict on where GTA 5 really stands in gaming history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about gaming’s biggest hits, this article is your ultimate guide to the sales champions of the digital age.

Key Takeaways

  • GTA 5 is the second best-selling video game ever, with over 215 million copies sold, but it’s not the top dog.
  • Minecraft holds the crown as the best-selling game, boasting over 300 million copies across nearly every platform.
  • GTA 5’s longevity is fueled by multi-generational releases and the massive success of GTA Online, its ever-evolving multiplayer mode.
  • The best-selling games often share traits like multi-platform availability, replayability, and strong community engagement.
  • Our expert verdict: GTA 5 is the most successful mature-rated blockbuster game in history, but Minecraft’s creative empire reigns supreme.

Ready to explore these gaming giants? Check out these shopping links to grab your copy or discover similar hits:

Table of Contents

Here is the main content for your article, crafted by the expert team at “Games Like™”.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

So, you’re wondering if Grand Theft Auto V wears the crown as the best-selling video game of all time. Let’s cut right to the chase:

Nope! ❌

That coveted title belongs to a blocky behemoth you’ve definitely heard of. But is the story really that simple? Not by a long shot! GTA V’s sales are so monumental, it’s in a league of its own. Here at Games Like™, we’ve poured through the data and our own Top 20️⃣ Top-Rated Video Games of All Time on Metacritic (2025) 🎮 to give you the lowdown.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the two titans at the top:

Feature 👑 Minecraft 🔫 Grand Theft Auto V
Copies Sold Over 300 Million Over 215 Million
Genre Sandbox, Survival Action-Adventure
Initial Release 2011 2013
Developer Mojang Studios Rockstar North
Key to Success Limitless creativity, broad appeal Immersive open-world, GTA Online

Key Takeaways:

  • Minecraft is the undisputed best-selling video game in history. Its creative freedom has attracted a massive audience of all ages across nearly every platform imaginable.
  • Grand Theft Auto V is the second best-selling video game ever. It’s an incredible achievement, especially for a game with a mature rating.
  • The sales gap is huge, but GTA V’s revenue is off the charts, thanks to GTA Online.
  • When it comes to single-platform games, Wii Sports is the champion, having sold nearly 83 million units exclusively for the Nintendo Wii, largely because it was bundled with the console.

So, while GTA V isn’t the best-selling game, its journey and impact are arguably just as legendary. Ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of this sales showdown? Let’s go!

🎮 Grand Theft Auto V’s Phenomenal Journey: A Sales Saga


Video: Most Sold Video Games of All Time (1980–2025): 45-Year Epic Evolution.








We remember the hype for GTA V’s release back in 2013. It was electric! Here at the studio, we booked days off just to dive into Los Santos. And boy, we weren’t alone. Developed with a staggering budget of around $260 million, it was one of the most expensive games ever made. But Rockstar Games knew they had a masterpiece.

The game didn’t just sell; it erupted. It shattered entertainment records, becoming the fastest-selling entertainment product in history. But the real magic of GTA V isn’t just its explosive launch—it’s its incredible staying power.

How has it managed to stay on the bestseller charts for over a decade?

  1. Generational Hops: GTA V is the ultimate survivor. It launched on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, got a stunning remaster for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and then made the leap again to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Each new release brought in a new wave of players.
  2. The GTA Online Juggernaut: This is the secret sauce. Grand Theft Auto Online, the game’s multiplayer component, transformed a single-player Action game into an ever-evolving online world. With constant updates, new heists, vehicles, and missions, it has kept a massive community engaged and spending money for years.
  3. Unmatched Quality: Let’s be real—the game is a technical and narrative marvel. The sprawling, detailed world of Los Santos still feels alive, and the story of Michael, Franklin, and Trevor is one of the most compelling in gaming.

As of May 2025, GTA V has sold over 215 million units, making it the only game other than Minecraft to cross the 200 million mark. While some sources might show slightly older figures like 180 or 200 million, the trajectory is always upward. It’s a sales phenomenon that has defined a generation of gaming.

🏆 The Reigning Champions: Top-Selling Video Games of All Time


Video: Best Selling Game EVER? – The Know.








So, who else is in this exclusive club of mega-sellers? The list is a fascinating mix of creative sandboxes, nostalgic classics, and multiplayer giants. We’ve compiled the ultimate list based on the most reliable data out there.

1. Minecraft: The Blocky Behemoth

  • Sales: 300+ Million
  • Developer: Mojang Studios

It’s no surprise that Minecraft sits on the throne. It’s less of a game and more of a cultural phenomenon. Its simple premise—build anything you can imagine—has captivated hundreds of millions. It’s a digital LEGO set, a survival adventure, and an educational tool all in one. Its availability on virtually every platform has cemented its legacy as the undisputed king of sales.

2. Grand Theft Auto V: The Urban Legend

  • Sales: 215+ Million
  • Developer: Rockstar North

We’ve already sung its praises, but GTA V’s position at number two is a testament to its groundbreaking open-world design and the enduring appeal of GTA Online. It’s a masterclass in creating a living, breathing world that players want to inhabit for years.

3. Tetris: The Enduring Puzzle

  • Sales: 100+ Million (for paid mobile versions)
  • Developer: Various (Originally Alexey Pajitnov)

Here’s where things get tricky! Some sources, like Telefónica, claim Tetris is the best-selling game with over 500 million sales. However, this number often includes the entire franchise across countless versions, including free-to-play mobile downloads. Wikipedia clarifies that the best-selling standalone paid version is EA’s mobile release, which sold over 100 million copies. Regardless, the simple, addictive genius of Tetris has made it a timeless classic.

4. Wii Sports: The Console Bundler

  • Sales: ~83 Million
  • Developer: Nintendo

Ah, Wii Sports! The game that got the whole family off the couch. Its success is unique because it was bundled with the Nintendo Wii in most regions. This masterstroke introduced millions to motion-controlled gaming and made the Wii a household name. It’s the best-selling game ever on a single Console.

5. PUBG: Battle Royale’s Big Bang

  • Sales: 75+ Million
  • Developer: PUBG Corporation

Before Fortnite took over the world, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) ignited the battle royale craze. Its tense, tactical gameplay created a new genre and sold a staggering number of copies before it eventually went free-to-play.

6. Mario Kart 8 / Deluxe: Racing to Records

  • Sales: 70+ Million (combined)
  • Developer: Nintendo

Mario Kart 8 is the ultimate party game. Originally released on the Wii U, its Deluxe version on the Nintendo Switch became an absolute system-seller. Its vibrant graphics, perfect gameplay, and chaotic multiplayer fun make it a must-own for any Switch owner.

7. Super Mario Bros.: The Original Icon

  • Sales: ~58 Million (combined)
  • Developer: Nintendo

The game that started it all! Super Mario Bros. on the NES laid the foundation for platformers and remains one of the most iconic video games ever created. Its simple yet challenging gameplay is timeless.

8. Red Dead Redemption 2: The Wild West Epic

  • Sales: 67+ Million
  • Developer: Rockstar Studios

From the makers of GTA V comes another open-world masterpiece. Red Dead Redemption 2 is a stunningly detailed and emotionally resonant Adventure that set a new standard for storytelling in games. Its breathtaking visuals and immersive world have captivated over 55 million players.

9. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim: Dragonborn’s Dominance

  • Sales: 60+ Million
  • Developer: Bethesda Game Studios

“Hey, you’re finally awake.” Skyrim is another game, like GTA V, that just keeps selling. Released in 2011, it has been ported to nearly every system known to man. Its vast world, deep lore, and endless quests have kept players coming back for over a decade. While the 60 million figure has been a topic of some debate, there’s no denying its massive commercial success.

10. Pokémon Red/Green/Blue: Gotta Catch ‘Em All

  • Sales: ~47 Million
  • Developer: Game Freak

The games that launched a global empire! The original Pokémon titles on the Game Boy were a playground phenomenon. The simple yet addictive “catch, train, battle” gameplay loop created a formula that Nintendo still uses today.

11. Human Fall Flat: The Wobbly Wonder

  • Sales: 50+ Million
  • Developer: No Brakes Games

This quirky, physics-based puzzle-platformer is a viral sensation. The floppy, clumsy characters and hilarious cooperative gameplay make Human Fall Flat a blast to play with friends, driving its incredible sales figures, especially on PC and mobile.

12. Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Island Life’s Appeal

  • Sales: ~45 Million
  • Developer: Nintendo

Released right at the start of the 2020 pandemic, Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a global comfort. This charming and relaxing life simulator provided a much-needed escape, allowing players to build their own island paradise and connect with friends in a wholesome Casual setting.

13. Terraria: The 2D Crafting Adventure

  • Sales: ~44 Million
  • Developer: Re-Logic

Often called “2D Minecraft,” Terraria is so much more. It blends sandbox creativity with deep action-RPG mechanics, featuring countless bosses to fight and treasures to discover. Its dedicated development team has provided massive free updates for years, fostering a loyal and passionate community.

14. Wii Fit / Plus: Fitness Fun

  • Sales: ~43 Million
  • Developer: Nintendo

Another Nintendo Wii phenomenon, Wii Fit and its Balance Board accessory brought exercise into the living room in a fun and accessible way. It was a massive hit, demonstrating the power of tapping into new markets beyond traditional gamers.

15. Pac-Man: The Arcade Legend

  • Sales: ~42 Million (Atari 2600 version and paid mobile downloads)
  • Developer: Namco

Wakka wakka wakka! The original arcade king, Pac-Man, has seen countless ports and versions. The Atari 2600 version was a massive seller, and modern paid mobile versions have continued its legacy, pushing its total sales into the tens of millions.

🤔 What Makes a Game a Bestseller? Unpacking the Success Factors


Video: I bought the LAZIEST Tech ever.








Selling over 50 million copies isn’t just luck; it’s a combination of brilliant design, smart business, and perfect timing. So what’s the secret recipe?

Multi-Platform Magic: Spreading the Love

✅ The Strategy: Release your game everywhere! The more platforms a game is on—PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, PC, mobile—the larger its potential audience.
✅ Prime Examples: Minecraft and GTA V are masters of this. They are available on almost any device that can play games, ensuring no one is left out.
❌ The Limitation: Platform exclusives like Wii Sports or Animal Crossing: New Horizons can be massive hits, but their sales are capped by the number of consoles sold.

Longevity and Replayability: Games That Keep Giving

A game that you can play for hundreds of hours is a game that will keep selling for years.

  • Sandbox Freedom: Games like Minecraft and Terraria have no real “end.” The fun comes from your own creativity, which is limitless.
  • Deep Systems: RPGs like Skyrim are packed with so much content—quests, skills, locations—that you can sink endless hours into them and still discover new things.
  • Engaging Gameplay Loop: The core mechanics of Tetris or Mario Kart 8 are so fun and addictive that you can play them over and over without getting bored.

Online Multiplayer & Live Service: The Ever-Evolving World

This is the game-changer of the modern era.

  • GTA Online is the perfect case study. It transformed GTA V from a single-purchase game into an ongoing service. The constant stream of new content keeps the world fresh and the community active, which in turn attracts new players to buy the base game.
  • PUBG popularized the massive multiplayer battle royale format, creating an intense, competitive experience that players couldn’t get enough of. This is a core tenet of many modern Cooperative games.

Critical Acclaim & Word-of-Mouth: The Hype Machine

You can’t underestimate the power of a good review.

  • Rave Reviews: Games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and GTA V launched to near-perfect scores from critics. This critical validation builds immense trust and hype.
  • Community Buzz: When everyone is talking about a game, you get a powerful FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) effect. Friends tell friends, streamers showcase the gameplay, and a game can go viral, driving sales through pure word-of-mouth.

Marketing & Brand Power: The Rockstar Touch

A powerful brand can sell a game before anyone even plays it.

  • Rockstar Games is a seal of quality. The Grand Theft Auto name alone guarantees a certain level of ambition, detail, and controversy that gets people excited. Their marketing campaigns are legendary, creating cinematic trailers that feel like blockbuster movie events.
  • Nintendo’s brands—Mario, Pokémon, Zelda—are globally recognized icons with cross-generational appeal. A new Mario Kart game doesn’t need to prove itself; decades of excellence have already done the work.

📈 GTA V’s Enduring Appeal: Why It Keeps Selling


Video: Ranking ALL 36 Evolutions from WORST to BEST!







We’ve touched on why GTA V is a sales monster, but let’s zoom in on the core pillars that give it such incredible legs, even a decade after its debut.

Grand Theft Auto Online: A Game Within a Game

This is the number one reason for its longevity. GTA Online is not just a mode; it’s a sprawling, persistent online world. You can race supercars, run a criminal empire, pull off elaborate heists with friends, or just cause mayhem. Rockstar has poured years of development into it, adding:

  • Massive Content Updates: Heists, businesses, properties, vehicles, and weapons are added regularly, all for free.
  • Community & Social Hub: It’s a place to hang out with friends. For many, logging into GTA Online is like visiting a virtual home.
  • Monetization: While the updates are free, the option to buy “Shark Cards” for in-game currency has made it one of the most profitable entertainment products of all time, funding its continued development.

Generational Leaps: From PS3 to PS5

Have you ever bought the same game twice? Millions of people did with GTA V. By re-releasing the game on new hardware, Rockstar achieved two things:

  1. Attracted New Players: Someone who skipped the PS3 generation could jump in on the PS4.
  2. Incentivized Double-Dipping: The graphical and performance upgrades were significant enough that many existing players (including some of us here!) happily bought the game again to experience Los Santos in higher fidelity.

Expansive Open World: Los Santos’s Allure

The world of Los Santos and Blaine County is a masterpiece of game design. It’s not just big; it’s dense. The level of detail is astounding, from the satirical radio stations to the distinct personalities of pedestrians. It feels like a real place, a satirical take on Southern California that is endlessly fun to explore and cause trouble in.

Character-Driven Storytelling: Three Protagonists, One Epic

The single-player story was revolutionary. Allowing you to switch between three distinct protagonists—Michael, the retired bank robber; Franklin, the ambitious hustler; and Trevor, the unhinged psychopath—was a stroke of genius. It kept the narrative fresh, allowed for complex mission design, and gave players different perspectives on the game’s criminal underworld.

🔮 The Future of Gaming Sales: What’s Next for Record Breakers?


Video: Best Selling Video Games 1979 – 2023.








The landscape of gaming is shifting. While massive premium releases like GTA V will always have a place, the industry is evolving.

  • The Rise of Subscriptions: Services like Xbox Game Pass are changing how we access games. Instead of buying a game for a premium price, millions of players can access it on day one through their subscription. This could change what “best-selling” even means.
  • Free-to-Play Dominance: Games like Fortnite, League of Legends, and Genshin Impact make billions without selling a single copy of the game itself. Their revenue comes from in-game purchases like cosmetics and battle passes.
  • The Next Big Thing? All eyes are on Rockstar’s next move: Grand Theft Auto VI. The hype is already astronomical. Could it be the first game to truly challenge the sales records of GTA V and even Minecraft? It will be launching into a different world, but if any game can do it, it’s a new GTA. The question is, will it sell more copies, or will it redefine success through a live service model from day one?

✅ Our “Games Like™” Verdict: Is GTA 5 the Undisputed Champion?


Video: The Houses in GTA V Make No Sense.








So, let’s circle back to the big question. Is GTA 5 the best-selling game ever?

No, it is not. That title belongs to the creative juggernaut, Minecraft.

But here’s our expert take: Grand Theft Auto V is the best-selling blockbuster entertainment experience in gaming history.

Let’s break down the final verdict:

Metric 👑 Minecraft 🔫 Grand Theft Auto V The “Games Like™” Take
Sales Volume ✅ Winner (300M+) ❌ Runner-Up (215M+) Numbers don’t lie. Minecraft is the undisputed sales king.
Target Audience Everyone (E10+) Adults (M17+) GTA V’s sales are insane for a mature-rated game. It reached its numbers despite being unsuitable for kids.
Business Model Buy-to-Play Buy-to-Play + Massive Live Service GTA Online’s success makes GTA V arguably the most profitable single game purchase ever.
Cultural Impact Defined a generation of creativity and kid-friendly gaming. Defined a generation of open-world design and adult storytelling. Both are titans, but they rule over different empires.

While Minecraft sold more copies by being an accessible, all-ages creative tool, GTA V sold an unprecedented number of copies as a premium, narrative-driven, M-rated cinematic experience. It’s the video game equivalent of a James Cameron blockbuster that just keeps running in theaters for a decade.

So, while it doesn’t wear the ultimate sales crown, GTA V’s throne is right next to it, and its reign has been just as glorious. 🤘

Conclusion

A yellow sports car sitting in a showroom

After an epic deep dive into the world of video game sales, it’s clear that Grand Theft Auto V is a titan — but not the absolute best-selling game ever. That honor goes to Minecraft, the sandbox sensation that has captured the imaginations of millions across all ages and platforms. However, GTA V’s achievement is nothing short of legendary, especially considering its mature rating and blockbuster production scale.

GTA V: The Positives and Negatives

Positives:

  • Immersive open-world gameplay: Los Santos is a living, breathing city packed with detail and endless activities.
  • Groundbreaking storytelling: The three-protagonist narrative keeps the story fresh and engaging.
  • GTA Online: An ever-evolving multiplayer world that keeps players hooked for years.
  • Multi-generational releases: Availability on multiple console generations and PC widened its audience.
  • Rockstar’s polish: Top-tier production values, voice acting, and cinematic presentation.

Negatives:

  • Mature content: Not suitable for younger players, limiting its audience.
  • Repetitive grind in GTA Online: Some players find the online progression and microtransactions tedious.
  • High system requirements on PC: Can be demanding on older hardware.

Our Confident Recommendation

If you love sprawling, story-rich open-world games with a mix of action, humor, and chaos, GTA V is a must-play classic. Its sales figures and cultural impact speak volumes about its quality and staying power. Plus, if you enjoy multiplayer, GTA Online offers an expansive playground that’s still growing.

For those seeking games like GTA V, exploring titles in our Action and Adventure categories will reveal many gems that capture similar thrills.

So, is GTA 5 the best-selling game ever? No. But it’s arguably the most successful mature-rated blockbuster game in history — and that’s a crown worth wearing. Ready to jump back into Los Santos or explore similar worlds? The city awaits! 🚗💥

Ready to grab these legendary games or dive deeper into their worlds? Check out these shopping links and books for more insights:

  • The Ultimate History of Video Games by Steven L. Kent — A comprehensive look at the evolution of gaming.
  • Blood, Sweat, and Pixels by Jason Schreier — Behind the scenes stories of game development.
  • Console Wars by Blake J. Harris — The battle between Sega and Nintendo in the 1990s.

FAQ

a city street at night with cars driving down it

What makes GTA 5 one of the best-selling games of all time?

GTA 5’s success stems from its immersive open world, compelling narrative with three protagonists, and the ever-expanding GTA Online multiplayer mode. Its availability across multiple console generations and PC widened its audience, while Rockstar’s continuous updates kept players engaged for years.

Read more about “18 Most Influential Video Games in History That Changed Everything 🎮 (2025)”

How does GTA 5 compare to other best-selling video games?

While Minecraft holds the top spot in sales, GTA 5 is the second best-selling game ever and the best-selling mature-rated title. Unlike Minecraft’s sandbox creativity, GTA 5 offers a cinematic, story-driven experience with a vast open world and a robust online multiplayer component.

Read more about “Top 20️⃣ Top-Rated Video Games of All Time on Metacritic (2025) 🎮”

What are the top-selling video games similar to GTA 5?

Games like Red Dead Redemption 2 (also by Rockstar), The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, and Watch Dogs share open-world action-adventure elements. For multiplayer experiences, titles like PUBG and Fortnite offer large-scale online play, though with different gameplay styles.

Read more about “🎮 The 20 Best Video Games Ever Ranked (2025): Ultimate List & Insights”

Why do players love open-world games like GTA 5?

Open-world games provide freedom to explore, non-linear gameplay, and dynamic environments filled with activities. Players enjoy the sense of immersion and the ability to create their own stories within vast, detailed worlds.

Read more about “Top 11 Most Played Video Games by Genre in 2025 🎮”

Are there other games like GTA 5 that have high sales figures?

Yes! Titles such as Red Dead Redemption 2, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe have sold tens of millions of copies. These games combine strong narratives, engaging gameplay, and broad platform availability to achieve commercial success.

What features in GTA 5 contribute to its popularity and sales?

Key features include:

  • Three unique protagonists with intertwining stories.
  • A richly detailed and satirical open world.
  • The continuously updated GTA Online.
  • Multi-platform releases across console generations.
  • High production values and Rockstar’s marketing prowess.

Read more about “Is Fortnite the Most Successful Game Ever? 🎮 (2025 Edition)”

How can I find games similar to GTA 5 for a comparable experience?

Explore our curated lists in the Action and Adventure categories at Games Like™. Look for games with open-world design, strong narratives, and multiplayer modes. Titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, Watch Dogs, and Saints Row are great starting points.

Read more about “32 Upcoming Video Games Set to Dominate 2025 🎮”

Ready to explore more games like GTA 5? Check out our Action and Adventure categories for your next epic gaming journey!

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob is a game developer turned editor who leads GamesLike.org with a builder’s eye for systems, balance, and “feel.” He oversees the site’s editorial roadmap and style guide, turning player questions—“What plays like this?”—into clear, cross-platform recommendations. His curation blends hands-on playtesting with design analysis to surface titles that share the same mechanics, themes, and vibes as your favorites. You’ll see that approach across GamesLike.org’s mechanic- and theme-driven lists and platform roundups, as well as family-focused guides that make it easy to choose what to play next.

At GamesLike.org, Jacob pushes for three things: precision (why a game matches), practicality (where to play it), and safety (what families should know). The result is an accessible, no-fluff destination for discovering “games like ___” whether you’re into indie experiments, AAA blockbusters, couch co-op, or kid-friendly adventures.

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