Top 20️⃣ Top-Rated Video Games of All Time on Metacritic (2025) 🎮

Video: Top 50 BEST GAMES of ALL TIME – According to METACRITIC.

Ever wondered which video games have truly stood the test of time and critics’ scrutiny? From pixelated classics to modern masterpieces, Metacritic’s highest-rated games represent the pinnacle of gaming excellence. In this article, we unpack the top 20 video games of all time according to Metacritic, revealing surprising trends, platform battles, and genre champions. Plus, we’ll show you how to use these scores to find hidden gems and avoid overrated flops.

Did you know that The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time holds a near-perfect 99 Metascore, making it one of the most critically acclaimed games ever? But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Stick around as we explore why some games soar in ratings but stumble commercially, how Metacritic scores shape the industry, and which franchises consistently deliver gold. Ready to level up your gaming knowledge and library? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

The top 20 Metacritic games span multiple platforms and genres, with Nintendo consoles and action-adventure titles dominating the list.
Metacritic scores combine critic reviews into a weighted average, but user scores often tell a different story—both are valuable for gamers.
High Metascores don’t always guarantee commercial success, highlighting the complex relationship between critics, players, and marketing.
Franchises like The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario, and Grand Theft Auto consistently deliver critically acclaimed experiences.
Use Metacritic strategically to discover hidden gems and underrated classics beyond the blockbuster hits.

Looking to grab some of these legendary games or find similar titles? Check out our curated categories for Console, Action, and Adventure games to find your next favorite!

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Top-Rated Video Games on Metacritic
🎮 The Evolution of Top-Rated Video Games: A Metacritic Perspective
1. The Definitive List: Top 20 Highest Rated Video Games of All Time on Metacritic
- 1.1 Console vs. PC: Which Platform Dominates the Top Scores?
- 1.2 Genre Breakdown: What Types of Games Score Highest?
2. How Metacritic Scores Are Calculated: Behind the Scenes of Game Ratings
3. Why Do Some Critically Acclaimed Games Flop Commercially? The Metacritic Paradox
4. The Impact of Metacritic Scores on Game Development and Marketing Strategies
5. Exploring the Most Consistently High-Scoring Game Franchises on Metacritic
6. User Scores vs. Critic Scores: Which Should You Trust More?
7. How to Use Metacritic to Find Hidden Gems and Underrated Classics
8. The Role of Metacritic in Shaping Gaming Culture and Community Opinions
9. Top-Rated Video Games by Decade: A Nostalgic Journey Through Metacritic Scores
10. How to Interpret Metacritic Scores: Tips for Gamers and Collectors
Conclusion: What Makes a Video Game Truly Top-Rated on Metacritic?
Recommended Links for Deep Diving Into Game Ratings and Reviews
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Metacritic and Top-Rated Games Answered
Reference Links: Sources and Further Reading on Metacritic and Video Game Ratings

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Top-Rated Video Games on Metacritic

If you’re hunting for the top-rated video games of all time on Metacritic, you’re in the right place! As the expert team at Games Like™, we’ve spent countless hours analyzing Metacritic’s treasure trove of reviews to bring you the most insightful, entertaining, and actionable info. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore collector, understanding Metacritic scores can be your secret weapon to finding games that truly shine.

Quick Facts to Kickstart Your Quest:

Metacritic aggregates critic reviews from dozens of trusted sources, averaging scores into a “Metascore” out of 100.
Games with a Metascore above 90 are considered “universal acclaim” and are rare gems.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Galaxy are among the highest-rated games ever.
Metacritic also features user scores, but critics and users often diverge — we’ll dive into why later.
The platform matters: some games score higher on certain consoles due to optimization or exclusive content.
Metacritic excludes games with fewer than 7 critic reviews from its top lists to ensure reliability.

Want to find games that resemble your favorites? Check out our related article on the most popular video game of all time for some inspiration!

Why Trust Metacritic?

Because it’s like having a panel of expert gamers and critics all in one place. But remember, a high score doesn’t always mean you’ll love the game — personal taste and play style matter! So keep reading to get the full scoop on how to interpret these scores and find your next favorite.

🎮 The Evolution of Top-Rated Video Games: A Metacritic Perspective

Video: The Best Games of All Time – Scott The Woz.

Metacritic launched in 1999, revolutionizing how we evaluate games by consolidating reviews into a single score. Over the decades, the gaming landscape has evolved dramatically, and so have the criteria for what makes a game “top-rated.”

From Pixels to Polygons: How Ratings Reflect Gaming History

Early 2000s: Games like Grand Theft Auto III and Metal Gear Solid 2 set new standards for storytelling and open-world design, earning stellar Metascores.
Mid-2000s: Innovation in graphics and gameplay mechanics pushed titles like BioShock and God of War II into the spotlight.
2010s to Today: Open-world epics like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Last of Us Remastered dominate, blending narrative depth with immersive gameplay.

The Changing Role of Metacritic Scores

Initially, Metacritic scores were a guide for gamers to sift through the growing number of releases. Today, they also influence developer bonuses, marketing strategies, and even game preservation efforts. Some studios chase high Metascores to secure funding or prestige, while others focus on niche audiences regardless of scores.

1. The Definitive List: Top 20 Highest Rated Video Games of All Time on Metacritic

Video: Metacritic Top 10 Video Games.

Ready for the ultimate countdown? Our team compiled the top 20 highest-rated games based on Metacritic’s critic scores, verified with at least 7 reviews for credibility. These titles are the cream of the crop, the games that have earned near-universal praise.

Rank	Game Title	Platform(s)	Metascore	Genre	Release Year
1	The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time	Nintendo 64	99	Action-Adventure	1998
2	Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2	PlayStation	98	Sports	2000
3	Grand Theft Auto IV	PlayStation 3, Xbox 360	98	Action-Adventure	2008
4	SoulCalibur	Dreamcast	98	Fighting	1999
5	Super Mario Galaxy	Wii	97	Platformer	2007
6	The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild	Nintendo Switch	97	Action-Adventure	2017
7	Red Dead Redemption 2	PS4, Xbox One, PC	97	Action-Adventure	2018
8	BioShock	Xbox 360, PC	96	FPS	2007
9	Super Mario Galaxy 2	Wii	97	Platformer	2010
10	Half-Life 2	PC	96	FPS	2004
11	The Last of Us Remastered	PS4	95	Action-Adventure	2014
12	Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty	PlayStation 2	96	Stealth	2001
13	Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas	PS2, Xbox, PC	95	Action-Adventure	2004
14	God of War II	PS2	95	Action	2007
15	Mass Effect 2	Xbox 360, PC	96	RPG	2010
16	Portal 2	PC, Consoles	95	Puzzle-Platformer	2011
17	The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt	PC, PS4, Xbox One	93	RPG	2015
18	Dark Souls	PS3, Xbox 360, PC	89	Action RPG	2011
19	Minecraft	Multi-platform	93	Sandbox	2011
20	Celeste	Multi-platform	94	Platformer	2018

Note: Scores and platforms are subject to updates as new reviews come in.

1.1 Console vs. PC: Which Platform Dominates the Top Scores?

Looking at the table, Nintendo consoles (64, Wii, Switch) dominate the highest scores, especially for iconic franchises like Zelda and Mario. PlayStation 2 and 3 also have strong showings with titles like God of War II and The Last of Us Remastered. PC shines in genres like FPS and RPG with Half-Life 2 and Mass Effect 2.

1.2 Genre Breakdown: What Types of Games Score Highest?

Action-Adventure games take the crown, blending storytelling and gameplay.
Platformers like Super Mario Galaxy show that tight mechanics and creativity win hearts.
RPGs and FPS games also score highly but tend to have more niche appeal.
Fighting and sports games, while popular, rarely hit the topmost Metascores.

2. How Metacritic Scores Are Calculated: Behind the Scenes of Game Ratings

Video: Statistically Speaking: Metacritic’s “Best Games of All Time”.

Ever wondered how Metacritic turns dozens of reviews into a single number? Here’s the lowdown:

Step-by-Step Breakdown:

Collection: Metacritic aggregates reviews from selected critics and publications worldwide.
Normalization: Scores from different scales (stars, percentages, letter grades) are converted to a 0-100 scale.
Weighting: Some sources have more influence based on their reputation and review quality.
Averaging: The weighted scores are averaged to produce the Metascore.
User Scores: Separately, user reviews are averaged on a 0-10 scale and displayed alongside.

Pros and Cons of This System

Pros	Cons
✅ Provides a quick snapshot of critical consensus	❌ Weighting is opaque and sometimes controversial
✅ Aggregates diverse opinions to reduce bias	❌ User scores can be manipulated by review bombing
✅ Helps gamers make informed decisions	❌ Doesn’t always reflect niche or personal preferences

For more on how Metacritic works, check out their official explanation.

3. Why Do Some Critically Acclaimed Games Flop Commercially? The Metacritic Paradox

Video: 10 Games That Are WAY BETTER on PC.

Here’s a puzzler: some games with sky-high Metascores don’t sell well, while others with middling scores become blockbusters. Why?

Factors Behind the Paradox:

Niche Appeal: Games like Celeste are beloved by critics but appeal to a smaller audience.
Marketing and Timing: Even great games can get buried if poorly marketed or released alongside heavy hitters.
Gameplay Complexity: Hardcore or experimental games may alienate casual players despite critical praise.
Platform Limitations: Exclusive releases limit audience size.
Community Reception: Sometimes user scores diverge sharply from critics, impacting word-of-mouth.

Our team at Games Like™ has seen this firsthand when recommending hidden gems that fly under the radar despite stellar reviews.

4. The Impact of Metacritic Scores on Game Development and Marketing Strategies

Video: 10 Worst Video Games Of All Time (According To Metacritic).

Metacritic scores aren’t just numbers — they influence the entire gaming ecosystem.

How Developers React:

Bonuses and Contracts: Some studios tie developer bonuses to Metascore thresholds.
Post-Launch Support: High scores can lead to more DLC and expansions; low scores might cut support short.
Design Choices: Developers may prioritize features likely to impress critics.

Marketing Moves:

Highlighting Scores: Ads often flaunt Metascores to boost credibility.
Targeting Audiences: High scores attract hardcore gamers; marketing shifts accordingly.
Influencing Retailers: Physical and digital stores sometimes prioritize stocking highly rated games.

But beware: chasing Metacritic glory can sometimes stifle creativity or lead to “safe” game design.

5. Exploring the Most Consistently High-Scoring Game Franchises on Metacritic

Video: Top 300 Highest-Rated Games on Metacritic: The Best of All Time.

Certain franchises have a knack for delivering critically acclaimed experiences. Here are the all-stars:

Franchise	Average Metascore	Notable Titles	Genre
The Legend of Zelda	95+	Ocarina of Time, Breath of the Wild	Action-Adventure
Super Mario	90+	Galaxy, Galaxy 2, Odyssey	Platformer
Grand Theft Auto	90+	GTA III, IV, V	Action-Adventure
Metal Gear Solid	90+	Sons of Liberty, Snake Eater	Stealth
BioShock	90+	BioShock, Infinite	FPS
God of War	90+	God of War II, God of War (2018)	Action

These franchises combine innovation, storytelling, and gameplay polish to consistently wow critics and players alike.

6. User Scores vs. Critic Scores: Which Should You Trust More?

Video: 🎮 Top 10 Highest-Rated PS2 Games on Metacritic 🎮.

Metacritic shows both critic and user scores — but they don’t always agree. So, who’s right?

Understanding the Divide

Critics evaluate games based on experience, technical merit, and innovation.
Users rate based on personal enjoyment, expectations, and sometimes hype or backlash.

Pros and Cons

Aspect	Critics	Users
Expertise	✅ Professional review standards	❌ Can be biased or emotional
Volume	❌ Limited number of reviews	✅ Thousands of opinions
Manipulation	❌ Some bias possible	❌ Vulnerable to review bombing
Perspective	✅ Holistic view	✅ Reflects player experience

Our Take

We recommend using both scores as complementary tools. If a game has a high critic score but low user score, dig deeper into reviews to understand why. Sometimes, it’s a sign of a niche game or technical issues.

7. How to Use Metacritic to Find Hidden Gems and Underrated Classics

Video: What Is The GREATEST Video Game Of All Time?

Metacritic isn’t just for blockbusters! It’s a goldmine for discovering lesser-known games that deserve your attention.

Tips for Unearthing Gems:

Sort by Genre and Platform: Narrow down to your favorite styles and devices.
Look Beyond the Top 10: Scores in the 80s can hide fantastic experiences.
Check User Reviews: Sometimes the community highlights overlooked features.
Explore Older Titles: Classic games with high scores often hold up surprisingly well.
Follow Developer and Publisher Trends: Some studios consistently produce quality games.

For example, Celeste (Metascore 94) started as an indie platformer but became a beloved classic thanks to its tight gameplay and heartfelt story.

8. The Role of Metacritic in Shaping Gaming Culture and Community Opinions

Video: The Top 100 Video Games of all Time.

Metacritic has become more than a review aggregator — it’s a cultural touchstone in gaming.

Influence on Gamers

Setting Expectations: Scores shape hype and anticipation.
Community Debates: Disagreements over scores fuel passionate discussions.
Game Preservation: High scores can boost a game’s legacy and availability.

Influence on Industry

Award Considerations: Many gaming awards consider Metascores.
Funding Decisions: Publishers use scores to decide on sequels or new projects.
Criticism of the System: Some argue Metacritic oversimplifies complex games into a single number.

At Games Like™, we see Metacritic as a valuable tool but not the whole story — your own experience matters most!

9. Top-Rated Video Games by Decade: A Nostalgic Journey Through Metacritic Scores

Video: The Best Games Are Kinda Bad.

Let’s take a time machine and explore the best games by decade, according to Metacritic.

Decade	Top-Rated Game(s)	Platform(s)	Metascore
1990s	The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time	Nintendo 64	99
2000s	Grand Theft Auto III, BioShock	PS2, Xbox 360, PC	97-98
2010s	The Last of Us Remastered, Breath of the Wild	PS4, Nintendo Switch	95-97
2020s*	(Ongoing, but titles like Hades and Elden Ring are contenders)	Multi-platform	90+

*The 2020s are still unfolding, but early entries show promise.

This journey shows how game design and player expectations have evolved, yet quality storytelling and gameplay remain timeless.

10. How to Interpret Metacritic Scores: Tips for Gamers and Collectors

Video: Top-Rated Games on Metacritic for Each Year (1996-2024).

You’ve got the scores, but how do you make sense of them? Here’s our expert advice:

Decoding the Numbers

90+ (Universal Acclaim): Must-play classics with broad appeal.
80-89 (Generally Favorable): Solid games with minor flaws.
70-79 (Mixed to Positive): Niche or experimental titles.
Below 70: Proceed with caution; often flawed or polarizing.

Consider Context

Number of Reviews: More reviews = more reliable score.
Genre Preferences: Some genres traditionally score lower.
Release Year: Older games may have lower scores due to dated tech.

Use Metacritic as a Starting Point

Read full reviews for context.
Watch gameplay videos (like the featured video) to see the game in action.
Try demos or free trials when available.

By combining Metacritic insights with your own preferences, you’ll find games that truly resonate.

Before we wrap up, don’t forget to check out the featured video embedded earlier — it’s a fantastic visual countdown of the top 50 best games of all time according to Metacritic, perfect for gaming inspiration!

Conclusion: What Makes a Video Game Truly Top-Rated on Metacritic?

After our deep dive into the world of Metacritic’s top-rated video games, it’s clear that a perfect storm of innovation, storytelling, gameplay mechanics, and polish is what propels a game into the hallowed halls of critical acclaim. From the timeless magic of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time to the sprawling epic of Red Dead Redemption 2, these games don’t just entertain—they redefine what gaming can be.

But remember, Metacritic scores are a powerful guide, not gospel. They reflect a broad critical consensus but can’t capture your unique taste or the emotional connection you might form with a game. Some critically acclaimed titles might not resonate with everyone, and some underrated gems might surprise you with their charm and depth.

So, whether you’re chasing the highest Metascores or hunting for hidden gems, use these scores as a compass, not a map. And if you want our expert recommendation? Start with the classics that have stood the test of time—Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Galaxy, and The Last of Us Remastered are fantastic entry points that showcase the best of what gaming has to offer.

Ready to level up your gaming library? Let’s get you set up with some of these legendary titles!

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Metacritic and Top-Rated Games Answered

What are the highest-rated video games on Metacritic of all time?

The highest-rated games on Metacritic typically score 95 and above, with The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time holding a near-perfect 99. Other legends include Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2, Grand Theft Auto IV, and Super Mario Galaxy. These games excel in innovation, storytelling, and gameplay, earning universal acclaim from critics worldwide.

How does Metacritic score influence the popularity of video games?

Metacritic scores can significantly impact a game’s popularity by shaping public perception and influencing purchasing decisions. High scores often lead to increased sales, better marketing opportunities, and even developer bonuses. However, some games with moderate scores become cult classics through strong community support and word-of-mouth.

Which video games have the best user reviews on Metacritic?

User reviews can differ from critic scores, highlighting games that resonate emotionally or offer unique experiences. Titles like Celeste and Minecraft boast excellent user scores due to their engaging gameplay and community support. However, user reviews can sometimes be skewed by hype or review bombing, so it’s wise to read a mix of opinions.

How can I find games similar to my favorite top-rated titles?

At Games Like™, we specialize in helping you find games that resemble your favorites! Use genre filters, platform preferences, and gameplay style to discover hidden gems. For example, if you love The Last of Us Remastered, you might enjoy other narrative-driven action-adventure games like God of War or Uncharted. Explore our Adventure and Action categories for tailored recommendations.

What are some underrated games with high Metacritic scores?

Underrated gems often hover in the 80-90 Metascore range but offer exceptional experiences. Examples include Celeste (94), Hollow Knight (90+), and Disco Elysium (90+). These games may not have blockbuster marketing but deliver rich gameplay and storytelling that critics love.

Are Metacritic scores a reliable way to choose new video games?

Metacritic scores provide a valuable snapshot of critical consensus but should be one of several tools in your decision-making arsenal. Scores don’t capture personal preferences, niche genres, or evolving player communities. Always complement scores with gameplay videos, detailed reviews, and user feedback.

What are the top-rated video games by genre on Metacritic?

Action-Adventure: The Legend of Zelda series, Red Dead Redemption 2
Platformer: Super Mario Galaxy, Celeste
RPG: Mass Effect 2, The Witcher 3
FPS: BioShock, Half-Life 2
Fighting: SoulCalibur
Sports: Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2

Each genre has its own champions, so explore based on what excites you most!

Reference Links: Sources and Further Reading on Metacritic and Video Game Ratings

Metacritic Official Game Listings — The primary source for all Metascores and user reviews.
Metacritic Best Games on PS2 — Explore the top-rated PlayStation 2 games, a golden era for many classics.
Nintendo Official Website — For all things Zelda, Mario, and Nintendo exclusives.
PlayStation Official Store — Source for PlayStation exclusives like The Last of Us Remastered and God of War.
Rockstar Games Official — Home of Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption.
2K Games Official — Publisher of BioShock and other acclaimed titles.
Games Like™ Cooperative Games — Find games with cooperative multiplayer experiences.
Games Like™ Console Games — Discover top-rated console games similar to your favorites.
Games Like™ Action Games — Dive into high-octane action games recommended by our experts.
Games Like™ Adventure Games — Explore immersive adventure games with rich narratives.
Games Like™ Casual Games — Perfect for laid-back gaming sessions.

Ready to dive into the world of critically acclaimed games? Your next adventure awaits! 🎮✨