The last decade has seen an incredible transformation in the world of gaming. With advanced technology, innovative mechanics, and expansive storytelling, many games have risen to prominence, each becoming an iconic part of the gaming community. One such title is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, a game that revolutionized the RPG genre. Released in 2015 by CD Projekt Red, this open-world masterpiece follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a world filled with political intrigue, dangerous creatures, and morally complex decisions. What makes The Witcher 3 so special is its depth—its world feels alive, with each quest offering an opportunity for exploration and discovery. Its branching narrative, where player choices have meaningful consequences, helped elevate the game to legendary status. The game’s graphics, character development, and narrative complexity set a new standard for open-world RPGs, making it a must-play for any serious gamer.
Another title that defines the last decade is The Last of Us Part II, a follow-up to Naughty Dog’s critically acclaimed 2013 original. Released in 2020, this PlayStation exclusive pushed the boundaries of storytelling in video games. The game’s emotional depth, coupled with its brutal combat and stunning visuals, created a memorable experience for players. The narrative follows Ellie, who embarks on a journey of revenge in a post-apocalyptic world filled with dangers, both human and infected. The Last of Us Part II tackled difficult themes, such as grief, vengeance, and forgiveness, offering players a nuanced and emotional story that is rare in gaming. Its stunning graphics, gameplay mechanics, and poignant moments make it one of the best games of the decade, cementing it as a modern masterpiece.
In the world of competitive gaming, Fortnite emerged as a cultural phenomenon. Released in 2017 by Epic Games, this free-to-play battle royale game took the world by storm, introducing a new kind of multiplayer experience. Players are maindikilo dropped onto an island where they must fight to be the last one standing. What set Fortnite apart was its unique building mechanics, allowing players to construct structures to gain an advantage in battle. Its vibrant art style, coupled with regular updates and crossovers with popular franchises, helped maintain its popularity over the years. Fortnite was not just a game, but a global event—its live in-game events, such as concerts and movie screenings, changed how players interacted with the game world. By mixing competitive gameplay with creativity, Fortnite created a new era of online gaming.
The decade also saw the rise of indie games, with Hollow Knight leading the charge. Released in 2017 by Team Cherry, Hollow Knight is a Metroidvania-style game that combines tight platforming with deep exploration. Set in a beautifully crafted, hand-drawn world, players control a silent protagonist who explores the underground kingdom of Hallownest. The game’s difficulty, atmosphere, and mysterious world-building made it a standout title in the indie game scene. The sense of isolation, the complex lore, and the challenging gameplay mechanics drew players in, making Hollow Knight one of the most beloved indie games of the decade. Its success proves that great games can come from small studios, and it has inspired many developers to push the boundaries of what’s possible in indie game development.
These games—The Witcher 3, The Last of Us Part II, Fortnite, and Hollow Knight—are a testament to the incredible evolution of the gaming industry in the past decade. They represent the best that gaming has to offer, from deep narrative-driven experiences to innovative gameplay mechanics. Each title has left a lasting impact on the gaming community, and they continue to be celebrated as some of the greatest games of all time. Whether you are an RPG fan, a competitive gamer, or a lover of indie gems, these titles offer something for everyone.