The BAFTA Game Awards ceremony is a hallmark event in the gaming calendar, celebrating excellence and innovation within the industry. As we approach its 21st edition on April 8th, anticipation builds not only for the awards but also for insights into gaming history. In a recent initiative, BAFTA conducted a poll inviting participants to determine the most influential video game of all time. This endeavor highlighted various iconic titles, each holding significance for different reasons, such as Super Mario Bros., Grand Theft Auto 3, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. However, the outcome of this vote has introduced an unexpected champion.
Shenmue Emerges as the Most Influential Video Game
In a surprising twist, the title awarded the crown of the Most Influential Video Game of All Time is none other than Shenmue. Launched in 1999 on the Dreamcast platform, this game set a significant precedent for future open-world titles. Shenmue was groundbreaking for its time, introducing cinematic storytelling, dynamic day-night cycles, variable weather patterns, and richly developed non-player characters (NPCs). It truly exemplified the concept of an immersive open world.
Shenmue Triumphs Over Other Gaming Giants
- Shenmue (1999)
- Doom (1993)
- Super Mario Bros. (1985)
- Half-Life (1998)
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
- Minecraft (2011)
- Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (2025)
- Super Mario 64 (1996)
- Half-Life 2 (2004)
- The Sims (2000)
- Tetris (1984)
- Tomb Raider (1996)
- Pong (1972)
- Metal Gear Solid (1998)
- World of Warcraft (2004)
- Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023)
- Final Fantasy 7 (1997)
- Dark Souls (2011)
- Grand Theft Auto 3 (2001)
- Skyrim (2011)
- Grand Theft Auto (1997)
In claiming this distinguished title, Shenmue outshone legendary competitors such as Doom, known as a trailblazer in the FPS genre, and Super Mario Bros., which marks the debut of a now-iconic character. While Ocarina of Time is often hailed as one of the greatest games of all time, it is essential to note that the poll’s focus was on influence rather than sheer popularity. Thus, the results may seem surprising, even as the majority of the titles listed are not.
Further notable mentions within the top ten winners include the original Half-Life and its sequel, both of which continue to resonate with audiences, alongside the immensely popular Minecraft. Among the newest entrants, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 made its mark with a robust immersive experience, underscoring the impact of open-world and RPG design principles that derive from predecessors like Shenmue. More traditional giants like Final Fantasy 7 and Grand Theft Auto 3 found themselves ranking lower at 17th and 19th, respectively.
This poll highlights the ongoing conversation about gaming’s rich history and influence. As we await the upcoming BAFTA Game Awards, set to take place on April 8, 2025, it will be intriguing to see which titles are honored during the ceremony.