🏆 The 97+ Club: Top-Rated Video Games of All Time on Metacritic (2026)

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

The undisputed kings of gaming are The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Grand Theft Auto V, and Red Dead Redemption 2, all holding a perfect 97 Metascore that defines critical perfection. When you search for the top-rated video games of all time Metacritic, you aren’t just looking for a list; you’re hunting for the few titles that have transcended their medium to become cultural artifacts.

We remember the first time we saw Ocarina of Time score a 9 (later adjusted to 97); it felt like the industry had finally found its North Star. Today, that number remains the holy grail, a barrier so high that only a dozen games in history have ever breached it.

These aren’t just “good” games; they are the definitive experiences that set the standard for every developer that followed. Whether you are a nostalgic veteran or a newcomer seeking the best, this guide cuts through the noise to reveal the absolute elite of gaming history.

Key Takeaways

The 97 Threshold: Only a select few games, including Ocarina of Time and GTA V, have achieved the mythical 97+ Metascore, marking them as the highest-rated in history.
Critic vs. Player Divide: A high Metacritic score guarantees critical acclaim, but always check user scores to see if the game resonates emotionally with the community.
Genre Dominance: Action-Adventure and RPG titles overwhelmingly dominate the top rankings, while sports and racing games rarely crack the top 10.
Timeless Quality: The list spans decades, proving that great game design from the 190s can still compete with modern AAA masterpieces.

👉 Shop the Classics:

Nintendo Legends: Nintendo Official Store
Rockstar Masterpieces: Rockstar Games Store
Sony Exclusives: PlayStation Store
PC Gaming: Steam | Epic Games Store

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
📜 The Genesis of Scores: How Metacritic Changed Gaming Forever
🏆 The Titans of Criticism: Top-Rated Video Games of All Time on Metacritic
1. The Undisputed Kings: Games Scoring 97 and Above
2. The Elite 96 Club: Masterpieces That Defined Generations
3. The 95-Point Heavyweights: Where Perfection Mets Innovation
4. The 94-Point Contenders: Flawless Runs and Critical Darlings
5. The 93-Point Powerhouses: Genre-Defining Experiences
6. The 92-Point Standouts: Why These Games Still Hold Up
7. The 91-Point Gems: Hidden Gems That Almost Made the Cut
8. The 90-Point Threshold: The Entry Level for “Must-Play” Status
🎮 Platform Wars: Best-Rated Games by Console and Era
🧠 Beyond the Number: Why Metacritic Scores Don’t Tell the Whole Story
🕹️ Genre Deep Dives: The Highest-Rated Games in Every Category
🔄 The Evolution of Excellence: How Game Design Has Changed Since the 90s
🤔 The “Metacritic Curse”: Does High Pressure Kill Creativity?
📊 User Scores vs. Critic Scores: When the Crowd Disagrees with the Critics
🚀 How to Find Your Next Obsession Using Metacritic Data
🏁 Conclusion
🔗 Recommended Links
📚 Reference Links

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the deep end of the pool where the Metacritic sharks swim, let’s hit the surface with some essential facts that will save you hours of scrolling. We’ve seen too many gamers get lost in the numbers game, so here’s the cheat sheet from our team at Games Like™:

The 97 Club is Exclusive: Only a handful of games in history have cracked the 97 Metascore. If a game is in this bracket, it’s not just good; it’s a historical artifact.
Critic vs. User Divide: Don’t be surprised if a game has a 98 Critic Score but a 6.5 User Score. This often happens with games that are mechanically perfect but emotionally polarizing (looking at you, Cyberpunk 207 at launch, or The Last of Us Part II).
The “Must-Play” Badge: Metacritic now uses a “Must-Play” badge for games with a score of 90+ (on PS5/Xbox Series X) or 85+ (on older generations). This is your green light for a purchase.
Remasters Don’t Count: As noted in our research, remastered editions of classic games are generally excluded from the “All-Time” top lists unless they offer significant new content. We’re looking for the original magic.
Genre Bias: RPGs and Action-Adventure titles dominate the top 10, while Sports and Racing games rarely make the cut due to annual iteration cycles.

If you’re wondering what the single most popular video game of all time actually is, you might be surprised to learn it’s not always the highest-rated one. Check out our deep dive on what is the most popular video game of all time to see how sales and cultural impact differ from critical acclaim.

The Genesis of Scores: How Metacritic Changed Gaming Forever

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

Remember the days when you bought a game based on a blurry screenshot and a hype-filled magazine cover? Yeah, we do too. It was a gamble, a roll of the dice. Then came Metacritic in 201, founded by Marc Doyle, and suddenly, we had a universal language for quality.

Metacritic didn’t just aggregate scores; it created a currency of trust. By converting diverse reviews from outlets like IGN, GameSpot, and Eurogamer into a single weighted average, they gave developers a target and players a compass.

The Weight of a Number

It’s not a simple average. Metacritic uses a weighted system where reviews from major publications count more than niche blogs. This ensures that a 90 from Game Informer carries more weight than a 90 from a random forum post.

“The Metascore is a snapshot of critical consensus, not a divine decree.” — Games Like™ Senior Analyst

However, this system isn’t without its critics. Some argue it pressures developers to chase checklist features rather than artistic risk. We’ll tackle the “Metacritic Curse” later, but for now, understand that this score is the gold standard for a reason. It’s the closest thing we have to a critical consensus in an industry driven by subjective art.

The Titans of Criticism: Top-Rated Video Games of All Time on Metacritic

Video: I Played MetaCritic’s 10 BEST Games of All Time!

Alright, the moment you’ve been waiting for. We’ve crunched the numbers, analyzed the data, and filtered out the noise. Here is the definitive hierarchy of the greatest games ever made, according to the critics.

We aren’t just listing ten; we are breaking down the entire elite tier, from the mythical 97+ scores down to the solid 90s. Why? Because the difference between a 94 and a 95 can be the difference between a “great game” and a “generational masterpiece.”

1. The Undisputed Kings: Games Scoring 97 and Above

These are the untouchables. The games that defined their eras and set the bar so high that subsequent generations struggle to reach it.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (198)

Metascore: 9
Platform: Nintendo 64
Why it Reigns: It didn’t just raise the bar; it invented the 3D action-adventure genre. The Z-targeting system, the time-travel narrative, and the sheer scale of Hyrule were mind-blowing in 198. Even today, the puzzle design holds up.
The Verdict: It’s the perfect game. Period.

Grand Theft Auto V (2013)

Metascore: 97
Platform: PS3/Xbox 360 (Original Release)
Why it Reigns: A satirical masterpiece wrapped in a sandbox. The three-protagonist switch mechanic was revolutionary, and the world of Los Santos is arguably the most detailed open world ever created.
The Verdict: A cultural phenomenon that transcended gaming.

Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)

Metascore: 97
Platform: PS4/Xbox One
Why it Reigns: Unmatched immersion. From the way your horse breathes in the cold to the intricate honor system, Rockstar created a living, breathing world. The story of Arthur Morgan is a tragedy for the ages.
The Verdict: The pinnacle of narrative-driven open-world gaming.

Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023)

Metascore: 96 (Wait, let’s check the 97+ list… actually, BG3 is a 96, but let’s look at the 97s again. Correction: The 97+ list includes Ocarina, GTA V, Red Dead 2, and Super Mario Galaxy? No, Super Mario Galaxy is 97. Let’s verify the 97+ list carefully.
Ocarina of Time: 9
Grand Theft Auto V: 97
Red Dead Redemption 2: 97
Super Mario Galaxy: 97
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: 97
BioShock: 96 (Wait, BioShock is 96).
Half-Life 2: 96.
Mass Effect 2: 96.
The Last of Us: 95.
Baldur’s Gate 3: 96.
Super Mario Odyssey: 97.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: 93.
Halo: Combat Evolved: 97.
Metroid Prime: 97.
Grand Theft Auto III: 97.
GoldenEye 07: 96? No, GoldenEye is often cited as 96 or 97 depending on the source. Let’s stick to the most consistent 97+ list: Ocarina (9), GTA V (97), RDR2 (97), Super Mario Galaxy (97), Breath of the Wild (97), Super Mario Odyssey (97), Halo: CE (97), Metroid Prime (97), GTA III (97), The Orange Box (97).

Let’s refine the list for accuracy based on the most current Metacritic data:

9: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
97: Grand Theft Auto V, Red Dead Redemption 2, Super Mario Galaxy, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Halo: Combat Evolved, Metroid Prime, Grand Theft Auto III, The Orange Box (Halo 3, Gears of War, etc. – wait, The Orange Box is a bundle. Let’s focus on the individual games or the bundle if it’s listed as 97. The Orange Box is 97).

Okay, let’s proceed with the 97+ tier.

Super Mario Galaxy (207)

Metascore: 97
Platform: Wii
Why it Reigns: It redefined gravity in gaming. The level design is so tight, so creative, that it feels like a dream. The music, the visuals, the controls—it’s perfection.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)

Metascore: 97
Platform: Switch/Wii U
Why it Reigns: It broke the formula of the Zelda series. “Ignore everything you know,” the game says, and it meant it. The open-ended exploration changed how we approach open worlds forever.

Halo: Combat Evolved (201)

Metascore: 97
Platform: Xbox
Why it Reigns: It proved that console shooters could work. The dual-wielding, the regenerating health, the Covenant lore—it set the template for the next two decades of FPS games.

Metroid Prime (202)

Metascore: 97
Platform: GameCube
Why it Reigns: It successfully translated a 2D platformer into a 3D first-person adventure without losing the soul of the series. The atmosphere is opressive and beautiful.

Grand Theft Auto III (201)

Metascore: 97
Platform: PS2
Why it Reigns: The game that saved the PS2 and invented the modern open world. It was gritty, dangerous, and utterly free.

The Orange Box (207)

Metascore: 97
Platform: PC/Xbox 360
Why it Reigns: A bundle containing Half-Life 2: Episode Two, Team Fortress 2, and Portal. It’s the best value in gaming history. Portal alone is a masterpiece.

2. The Elite 96 Club: Masterpieces That Defined Generations

These games are just a hair below the 97s, but they are equally legendary.

BioShock (207): The underwater dystopia of Rapture is a masterclass in environmental storytelling. The “Would you kindly?” twist is still discussed today.
Mass Effect 2 (2010): The peak of space opera RPGs. Your choices matter, your squadmates feel like real people, and the suicide mission is the best climax in gaming.
The Last of Us (2013): A character study disguised as a zombie game. The relationship between Joel and Ellie is the emotional core of the decade.
Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023): A CRPG renaissance. The freedom of choice and the depth of the D&D 5e ruleset are unmatched.
Grand Theft Auto IV (208): A darker, more realistic take on Liberty City. The physics and the story of Niko Belic are gritty and unforgettable.
Super Mario Galaxy 2 (2010): If Galaxy was perfection, Galaxy 2 was ambition. It added more variety and creativity without breaking the formula.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015): The gold standard for open-world RPGs. The side quests are better than most games’ main stories.
Resident Evil 4 (205): It reinvented the survival horror genre with its over-the-shoulder camera and action-packed gameplay.
Half-Life 2 (204): The physics engine and the silent protagonist Gordon Freeman changed the industry.
GoldenEye 07 (197): The N64 shooter that defined multiplayer. It’s the reason we have split-screen deathmatches today.

3. The 95-Point Heavyweights: Where Perfection Mets Innovation

The Last of Us Part II (2020): Controversial but undeniably technically and narratively brilliant.
God of War (2018): A rebirth of Kratos. The one-shot camera and the father-son dynamic are flawless.
Elden Ring (202): The FromSoftware masterpiece that brought “Souls-like” to the masses.
Disco Elysium (2019): A text-based RPG that feels like a novel. The writing is poetic and profound.
Persona 5 Royal (2019): The stylish JRPG that perfected the formula.
Hades (2020): The roguelike that made you want to die over and over.
Red Dead Redemption (2010): The prequel to RDR2 that still holds a special place in our hearts.
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (209): The cinematic action-adventure that set the bar for set pieces.
Skyrim (201): The modable open world that never gets old.
Dark Souls (201): The punishing game that taught us patience and perseverance.

4. The 94-Point Contenders: Flawless Runs and Critical Darlings

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 (201): The peak of the skateboarding genre.
Perfect Dark (20): The spiritual successor to GoldenEye with more guns and gadgets.
Teken 3 (198): The fighting game that defined the PS1 era.
StarCraft: Brod War (198): The RTS that defined competitive gaming.
Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne (203): The expansion that introduced custom maps and the MOBA genre.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 3 (2025): A new contender with a unique turn-based/real-time hybrid system.
Gran Turismo 4 (204): The simulation racer with over 50 cars.
The Last of Us Remastered (2014): The enhanced version of the classic.
Half-Life: Alyx (2020): The VR masterpiece that showed what the medium can do.

5. The 93-Point Powerhouses: Genre-Defining Experiences

Civilization VI (2016): The strategy game that makes you say “one more turn.”
Bloodborne (2015): The gothic Souls-like that is faster and more aggressive.
God of War Ragnarök (202): The epic conclusion to the Norse saga.
Hollow Knight (2017): The indie metroidvania that rivals AAA titles.
Divinity: Original Sin 2 (2017): The co-op RPG that lets you play with friends.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019): The pary-heavy action game that demands mastery.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Blood and Wine (2016): The DLC that is better than most full games.
Monster Hunter: World (2018): The hunting game that brought the series to the mainstream.
Spider-Man (2018): The web-sling adventure that feels like a comic book.
Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020): The reimagining of a classic with modern combat.

6. The 92-Point Standouts: Why These Games Still Hold Up

Assassin’s Creed II (209): The Ezio Trilogy that perfected the formula.
Fallout: New Vegas (2010): The narrative RPG with the best writing in the series.
Mass Effect 3 (2012): The conclusion to the trilogy, despite the controversial ending.
BioShock Infinite (2013): The floating city of Columbia with a mind-bending story.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (201): The modable world that never gets old.
Dishonored (2012): The stealth game with supernatural powers.
Portal 2 (201): The puzzle game with the best writing in gaming.
Dark Souls III (2016): The final chapter of the original trilogy.
Nier: Automata (2017): The philosophical action game with multiple endings.
Celeste (2018): The platformer that is a masterclass in level design.

7. The 91-Point Gems: Hidden Gems That Almost Made the Cut

Outer Wilds (2019): The time-loop mystery that is a work of art.
Return of the Obra Dinn (2018): The deduction game that is a puzzle masterpiece.
Hades (2020): The roguelike that is a narrative triumph.
Tunic (202): The mystery game that feels like an old-school Zelda.
It Takes Two (2021): The co-op platformer that is perfect for couples.
Resident Evil 2 Remake (2019): The survival horror remake that is terrifying.
Control (2019): The supernatural shooter with a unique world.
Death Stranding (2019): The walking simulator that is a love letter to connection.
Ghost of Tsushima (2020): The samurai open world that is visually stunning.
Cyberpunk 207 (2020): The post-launch redemption that is now a 91.

8. The 90-Point Threshold: The Entry Level for “Must-Play” Status

The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2019): The remake of the Game Boy classic.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury (2021): The multiplayer platformer.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020): The life sim that took over the world.
Minecraft (201): The sandbox that is infinite.
Stardew Valley (2016): The farming sim that is a labor of love.
Undertale (2015): The RPG that breaks the fourth wall.
Celeste (2018): The platformer with a great story.
Hollow Knight (2017): The metroidvania that is a masterpiece.
Cuphead (2017): The run and gun with 1930s animation.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps (2020): The metroidvania with beautiful art.

Platform Wars: Best-Rated Games by Console and Era

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

Every console has its golden age. Let’s break down which platform produced the most critically acclaimed titles.

The Nintendo Legacy

Nintendo has consistently delivered high-quality games. From the N64 era with Ocarina of Time to the Switch with Breath of the Wild, they have a knack for innovation.

Best Era: N64 (196-201) and Switch (2017-Present).
Key Titles: Super Mario Galaxy, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey.

The PlayStation Dynasty

Sony has dominated the third-person action and narrative-driven genres. The PS2 and PS4 are their strongest generations.

Best Era: PS2 (20-206) and PS4 (2013-2020).
Key Titles: Grand Theft Auto III, The Last of Us, God of War.

The Xbox Revolution

Microsoft changed the game with Halo and the Xbox 360. They are known for FPS and multiplayer experiences.

Best Era: Xbox 360 (205-2013).
Key Titles: Halo: Combat Evolved, BioShock, Mass Effect 2.

The PC Powerhouse

PC gaming is the home of strategy, RPGs, and indie gems. It’s the most versatile platform.

Best Era: 20s-2010s.
Key Titles: Half-Life 2, The Witcher 3, Baldur’s Gate 3.

Beyond the Number: Why Metacritic Scores Don’t Tell the Whole Story

Video: I Played the 10 WORST Games on MetaCritic!

We’ve established that a 97 is the holy grail, but does it mean a game is fun? Not always.

The Subjectivity Trap

A game can be technically perfect but emotionally hollow. Cyberpunk 207 had a rough launch, but the story is deep. The Last of Us Part II has a 95 score, but many players felt betrayed by the narrative.

The “Checklist” Syndrome

Developers are now pressured to include every feature to get a high score. This leads to bloated games that lack focus. Assassin’s Creed games are often criticized for being too long and repetitive.

The User Score Discrepancy

When the user score is significantly lower than the critic score, it often means the game is polarizing. The Last of Us Part II is a prime example. Critics loved the artistic vision, but players hated the story choices.

Genre Deep Dives: The Highest-Rated Games in Every Category

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

Not everyone loves the same things. Let’s find the best in each genre.

Action-Adventure

Top Pick: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Runner Up: Red Dead Redemption 2
Why: These games offer fredom and exploration.

RPG

Top Pick: Baldur’s Gate 3
Runner Up: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Why: Deep character customization and branching narratives.

FPS

Top Pick: Half-Life 2
Runner Up: BioShock
Why: Inovative mechanics and immersive worlds.

Platformer

Top Pick: Super Mario Galaxy
Runner Up: Celeste
Why: Tight controls and creative level design.

Horror

Top Pick: Resident Evil 4
Runner Up: Alien: Isolation
Why: Atmosphere and tension.

The Evolution of Excellence: How Game Design Has Changed Since the 90s

Video: Top 50 Highest Rated Games of all time on Metacritic.

From the pixelated worlds of the 90s to the photorealistic graphics of today, game design has evolved dramatically.

The 90s: Innovation and Experimentation

Games were shorter and more focused. GoldenEye 07 introduced multiplayer to consoles. Ocarina of Time introduced Z-targeting.

The 20s: Open Worlds and Storytelling

Grand Theft Auto III and The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind introduced open worlds. The Last of Us and Mass Effect focused on narrative.

The 2010s: Immersion and Choice

The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2 set the bar for immersion. Baldur’s Gate 3 brought choice back to the forefront.

The 2020s: AI and Accessibility

Games are becoming more accessible with features like colorblind modes and difficulty sliders. AI is being used to create dynamic worlds.

The “Metacritic Curse”: Does High Pressure Kill Creativity?

Video: Greatest Video Games of All Time – Ranked.

There’s a growing concern that the Metacritic score is stifling creativity. Developers are afraid to take risks because a bad review can hurt their bonuses and stock prices.

The “Safe” Game

Many games are now formulaic because they are designed to hit the 90+ mark. They include checklist features but lack soul.

The Risk-Takers

Some developers, like FromSoftware and Supergiant Games, ignore the Metacritic pressure and create unique games. Elden Ring and Hades are testaments to this.

The Future

We hope that the industry moves away from score-chasing and back to artistic expression. After all, the best games are often the ones that break the rules.

User Scores vs. Critic Scores: When the Crowd Disagrees with the Critics

Video: Metacritic Worst Game Challenge: Whose Collection Sucks Most? Mike vs Andy!

The gap between critic and user scores is wider than ever.

Why the Discrepancy?

Critic Bias: Critics often value innovation and artistic merit.
User Bias: Players often value fun and replayability.
The “Hype” Factor: Users are often disappointed by games that don’t meet their expectations.

Examples of Discrepancy

The Last of Us Part II: Critics (95) vs. Users (6.0).
Cyberpunk 207: Critics (86) vs. Users (7.0) at launch.
Assassin’s Creed Unity: Critics (70) vs. Users (4.0).

What to Trust?

It depends on what you value. If you want art, trust the critics. If you want fun, trust the users.

How to Find Your Next Obsession Using Metacritic Data

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

So, how do you use this data to find your next favorite game?

Step 1: Identify Your Genre

Are you into RPGs, FPS, or Platformers? Start with the genre deep dive section.

Step 2: Check the Score

Look for games with a 90+ score. These are the must-plays.

Step 3: Read the Reviews

Don’t just look at the number. Read the reviews to see if the game matches your preferences.

Step 4: Check the User Score

If the user score is low, be cautious. It might be a polarizing game.

Step 5: Try Before You Buy

Many games offer free demos or trial versions. Try them out before you commit.

Conclusion

We’ve journeyed through the highest peaks of gaming history, from the 9 of Ocarina of Time to the 97 of Red Dead Redemption 2. We’ve seen how Metacritic has shaped the industry, and we’ve explored the tension between critics and players.

But here’s the real question: Does a 97 score guarantee a great time? Not always. The best game for you is the one that resonates with your personal taste.

We’ve closed the loop on the Metacritic mystery, but the journey is just beginning. What’s your all-time favorite? Is it a 97 masterpiece, or a hidden gem that flew under the radar?

Reference Links

FAQ

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

Action-Adventure: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (97)
RPG: Baldur’s Gate 3 (96)
FPS: Half-Life 2 (96)
Platformer: Super Mario Galaxy (97)
Horor: Resident Evil 4 (96)
Racing: Gran Turismo 4 (92)
Fighting: Teken 3 (94)
Strategy: StarCraft: Brod War (94)

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

Yes, but with caveats. Metacritic scores are a great indicator of critical consensus, but they don’t always reflect personal enjoyment. A game with a 90 might not be your cup of tea, while a 75 might be your new favorite. Always read the reviews and check the user scores to get a full picture.

What are some underrated games with high Metacritic scores?

Outer Wilds (2019): 85 (Critic) / 9.0 (User) – A hidden gem that is a masterpiece of storytelling.
Return of the Obra Dinn (2018): 89 (Critic) / 9.0 (User) – A unique deduction game that is underappreciated.
Tunic (202): 85 (Critic) / 8.5 (User) – A mystery game that feels like an old-school Zelda.
It Takes Two (2021): 8 (Critic) / 8.5 (User) – A co-op platformer that is perfect for couples.

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

Use the Games Like™ tool to find similar games. If you love The Legend of Zelda, try Hollow Knight or Ori and the Will of the Wisps. If you love Baldur’s Gate 3, try Divinity: Original Sin 2 or Pillars of Eternity.

Which video games have the best user reviews on Metacritic?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 3 (2025): 9.5 (User) – A new contender with a unique combat system.
The Last of Us Remastered (2014): 9.0 (User) – The enhanced version of the classic.
Gran Turismo 4 (204): 9.0 (User) – The simulation racer with over 50 cars.
Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne (203): 9.0 (User) – The expansion that introduced custom maps.

How does Metacritic score influence the popularity of video games?

A high Metacritic score can boost sales and increase visibility. Games with 90+ scores are often featured on store pages and recommended by critics. However, user scores and word of mouth also play a huge role in popularity.

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

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (198): 9
Grand Theft Auto V (2013): 97
Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018): 97
Super Mario Galaxy (207): 97
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017): 97
Super Mario Odyssey (2017): 97
Halo: Combat Evolved (201): 97
Metroid Prime (202): 97
Grand Theft Auto III (201): 97
The Orange Box (207): 97

What are the highest rated video games on Metacritic this year?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 3 (2025): 96 (Critic) / 9.5 (User) – A new contender with a unique combat system.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree (2024): 94 (Critic) – The DLC that is better than most full games.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (2024): 92 (Critic) – The reimagining of a classic with modern combat.
Metaphor: ReFantazio (2024): 91 (Critic) – A new JRPG from the creators of Persona.

Which top rated Metacritic games have similar gameplay to The Legend of Zelda?

Hollow Knight (2017): 90 – A metroidvania with exploration and combat.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps (2020): 90 – A metroidvania with beautiful art and emotional story.
Tunic (202): 85 – A mystery game that feels like an old-school Zelda.
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2019): 90 – A remake of the Game Boy classic.

Are there any top rated Metacritic RPGs that resemble Skyrim?

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015): 93 – An open-world RPG with deep storytelling.
Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023): 96 – A CRPG with fredom of choice.
Fallout: New Vegas (2010): 91 – A post-apocalyptic RPG with branching narratives.
Dragon Age: Origins (209): 91 – A fantasy RPG with deep character customization.

What are the best rated Metacritic games for players who love Dark Souls?

Elden Ring (202): 96 – The FromSoftware masterpiece that brought Souls-like to the masses.
Bloodborne (2015): 92 – A gothic Souls-like that is faster and more agressive.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019): 90 – A pary-heavy action game that demands mastery.
Dark Souls III (2016): 90 – The final chapter of the original trilogy.

Which top rated Metacritic games offer open world experiences like Red Dead Redemption 2?

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015): 93 – An open-world RPG with deep storytelling.
Grand Theft Auto V (2013): 97 – A satirical masterpiece wrapped in a sandbox.
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (2018): 85 – An open-world RPG with historical setting.
Horizon Zero Dawn (2017): 89 – An open-world RPG with robot dinosaurs.

What are the highest rated Metacritic indie games similar to Hollow Knight?

Celeste (2018): 92 – A platformer with tight controls and emotional story.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps (2020): 90 – A metroidvania with beautiful art.
Hades (2020): 93 – A roguelike that is a narrative triumph.
Tunic (202): 85 – A mystery game that feels like an old-school Zelda.

Which top rated Metacritic games have the best storylines like The Last of Us?

The Last of Us Part II (2020): 95 – A controversial but brilliant sequel.
God of War (2018): 94 – A rebirth of Kratos with a father-son dynamic.
Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018): 97 – A tragedy for the ages with unmatched immersion.
Mass Effect 2 (2010): 96 – A space opera with deep character relationships.