There have been some truly great console games over the years.
Console gaming is a huge industry, and there have been many groundbreaking titles released for PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
In this blog post, we will take a look at the 12 best console games of all time. These are the games that pushed the boundaries of what was possible on a gaming console, and redefined what it meant to be a gamer. Let’s get started!
1. Super Mario Bros: The OG of Console Gaming – No list would be complete without including the original Super Mario Bros. This 1985 classic revolutionized gaming and was the first successful console game to feature an open-world style of gameplay. Its simple yet engaging levels and charming characters still hold up today, making it one of the best console games ever made.
2. The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time – This 1998 action-adventure title from Nintendo is considered one of the greatest video games ever made, let alone console games. It took gamers on a journey through a vast world full of puzzles, monsters, and secrets with its unique 3D graphics and sophisticated world design. It’s no wonder why this title is still a fan favorite to this day.
3. Sonic the Hedgehog: The Fastest Console Game Ever – This 1991 side-scrolling platformer was one of the first console games to introduce gamers to blazing fast speeds and tight controls. You took control of Sonic, a blue hedgehog with an attitude problem, as you sped your way through loop-the-loops and jumps to reach the end of each level. It’s no surprise that this game spawned multiple sequels and remains a classic today.
4. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – This 2004 installment in the iconic GTA franchise was one of the most ambitious open-world titles ever made at the time. With its massive world full of activities to keep you busy, detailed character customization options, and brutal difficulty curve, San Andreas was a must-have game for console gamers. It’s still considered one of the best sandbox games ever made.
5. Metal Gear Solid – This 1998 tactical espionage game is often credited with raising the bar for console gaming in terms of storytelling and cinematic presentation. You take control of Solid Snake as he infiltrates an enemy base and has to avoid detection while taking out enemies with his arsenal of weapons and gadgets. Its intense stealth gameplay mechanics set a new standard for console titles at the time.
6. Halo: Combat Evolved – This 2001 first-person shooter from Microsoft revolutionized the FPS genre on consoles with its tight controls and revolutionary multiplayer mode. The game’s story was surprisingly deep for a console title, and its iconic music is still remembered by gamers to this day. It’s no wonder why this game spawned multiple sequels and spin-offs.
7. Red Dead Redemption – This 2010 open world western from Rockstar Games pushed the boundaries of what was possible on consoles with its stunning visuals and massive world to explore. You take control of John Marston as he attempts to track down his former gangmates while trying to make his way in the unforgiving American West. Its gripping storyline and intense gameplay has made it one of the best-selling console games ever made.
8. Portal 2 – This 2011 sequel took everything that made the original Portal a classic and made it even better. With its challenging puzzles, quirky characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Portal 2 was an instant hit with gamers. It’s no surprise that this game is still considered one of the best console puzzle games ever made.
9. The Last of Us – This 2013 action-adventure title from Naughty Dog took players on an emotional journey as they take control of Joel and Ellie as they try to survive in a post-apocalyptic United States overrun by zombies. Its engaging story, stunning visuals, and intense combat make it one of the best console titles ever created.
10. Overwatch – This 2016 team shooter from Blizzard Entertainment revolutionized the genre with its fast-paced action and accessible mechanics. You take control of a variety of characters with unique abilities as you battle it out in online matches. With its competitive play and diverse selection of heroes, Overwatch is still going strong today.
11. Super Mario Galaxy – This 2007 platformer from Nintendo took the classic Mario formula to the next level with its stunning visuals and innovative gameplay mechanics. Taking control of Mario, you had to navigate 3D planets full of gravity-defying jumps that would have made Isaac Newton proud. Its impressive levels design has made this game one of the best console titles ever released.
12. BioShock – This 2007 FPS from 2K Games managed to combine some compelling storytelling with intense action-packed gameplay. Taking control of Jack, you explore the underwater city of Rapture in order to uncover its secrets. Its unique setting and innovative gameplay have made this game a classic today.
These 12 Console Games can be considered some of the best ever created. Each one pushed the boundaries of what was possible on a console and set the standard for future titles.
Console gaming has come a long way over the years, but these games will always remain classics that gamers will remember fondly.