Today, we’re going to go over twenty of the best video games to ever work in the industry. Video games are extremely young as a form of entertainment and artistic medium, but they are also at the vanguard of technological innovation, evolving at an unprecedented rate compared to more traditional art forms, or even compared to film or television. Worth hundreds of billions of dollars a year, the video game industry is now far larger than either movies or TV, and reaches larger demographics than either. Rather than just a distraction for a small section of the population, video games have become a nearly ubiquitous past-time that are the site of some of the most creative and wide-ranging works in entertainment.
This list is going to showcase the “best” companies in the industry, but take it with a grain of salt. There are no hard and fast rules for determining the best of anything like an entire genre of entertainment, and just because something is the most valued, or the most talked about, doesn’t mean that it’s the best. And there are many different, incomparable qualities that video games can have; from creativity, to character-depth, to beauty. This list is going to be going over some of the most popular and successful companies and their best-selling games, but it is far from comprehensive. It’s more of a fun way to take a look at some of the highlights of the industry. If your favorite company isn’t on here, you have every right to hate this article. So, without further ado, let's get into the list.
20. Telltale Games
Telltale Games was an American video game developer founded in 2004 by former LucasArts employees, and it gained prominence for its episodic adventure games. The company’s innovative approach combined traditional storytelling with modern gaming mechanics, leading to the creation of some of the most critically acclaimed interactive experiences in the industry. Telltale's breakthrough came with "The Walking Dead" in 2012, a game that not only captivated players with its intense narrative but also revolutionized the episodic release format. Despite facing financial difficulties and a temporary shutdown in 2018, Telltale Games’ title was revived under new management and still partially continues to develop new games with some of its old creators on board in the new company.
Telltale Games is renowned for its storytelling, deep character development, and player-driven narratives. Their games are distinguished by their strong emotional pull and ability to present complex moral dilemmas, allowing players to influence the story through their choices. This unique approach has garnered a cult following and critical acclaim. Games like "The Wolf Among Us," "Tales from the Borderlands," and "Batman: The Telltale Series" showcase the company’s talent for adapting popular franchises into compelling interactive dramas. Telltale’s contributions played a strong role in shaping the entire adventure game genre, setting high standards for narrative quality and player engagement.
Top Games:
- The Walking Dead (2012 to 2019)
- The Wolf Among Us (2013 to 2014)
- Tales from the Borderlands (2014)
- Batman: The Telltale Series (2016)
- Game of Thrones (2014)
19. Riot Games
Riot Games, an American developer and publisher founded in 2006 by Brandon Beck and Marc Merrill, has become a dominant force in the gaming industry. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Riot Games first gained widespread recognition with the release of "League of Legends" in 2009, a game that would go on to become one of the most popular and influential multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) titles. The company's focus on competitive gaming and player engagement has led to the development of a sprawling esports ecosystem, making Riot Games a key player in the global esports industry. Over the years, Riot has expanded to create various other successful titles, cementing its status as a leading game developer.
Riot Games is renowned for its dedication to large-scale, competitive play and community involvement. The company has built a reputation for creating games that not only offer engaging and strategic gameplay but also support vibrant, active player communities. "League of Legends," with its dynamic roster of champions and regular updates, remains a cornerstone of Riot's success. Other titles like "Valorant," a tactical first-person shooter, and "Legends of Runeterra," a digital collectible card game, showcase Riot's versatility in game design. Additionally, "Teamfight Tactics," an auto-battler game mode within "League of Legends," and "Wild Rift," a mobile adaptation of "League of Legends," have further expanded the company's reach. Riot Games continues to innovate and set high standards in the gaming industry, consistently delivering high-quality, competitive experiences that captivate millions of players worldwide.
Top Games:
- League of Legends (2009)
- Valorant (2020)
- Legends of Runeterra (2020)
- Teamfight Tactics (2019)
- Wild Rift (2020)
18. Epic Games
Epic Games was founded in 1991 by Tim Sweeney and has become a major player in the industry. Originally known for titles like "ZZT" and the "Unreal" series, the company made a significant impact with the release of the Unreal Engine, a powerful game development tool that has become one of the most widely used engines in the industry. Epic Games reached unprecedented heights with the launch of "Fortnite" in 2017, a game that not only became a cultural phenomenon but also revolutionized the battle royale genre. Headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, Epic Games continues to expand its influence through innovative games and cutting-edge technology.
Epic Games is renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to both game development and interactive entertainment technology. The Unreal Engine has set industry standards for graphic quality, allowing developers worldwide to create high-quality games. "Fortnite," with its engaging gameplay, frequent updates, and vibrant community, has redefined what a live-service game can be, maintaining immense popularity across various demographics. Additionally, Epic Games operates the Epic Games Store, a digital distribution platform known for its competitive revenue share model and free game offerings, which have attracted a substantial user base (and a range of criticisms for encouraging gambling-like behavior and bad spending habits from young people)
Top Games:
- Fortnite (2017)
- Unreal Tournament (1999)
- Gears of War (2006)
- Infinity Blade (2010)
- Shadow Complex (2009)
17. Insomniac Games
Insomniac Games was founded in 1994 by Ted Price and has built a reputation for creating innovative and highly entertaining titles. Initially known for the "Spyro the Dragon" series, Insomniac has consistently delivered high-quality games across various genres. Based in Burbank, California, the studio has developed several iconic franchises, including "Ratchet & Clank" and "Resistance." In recent years, Insomniac has gained widespread acclaim for its work on the "Spider-Man" games for PlayStation. Acquired by Sony Interactive Entertainment (another member of this list) in 2019, Insomniac continues to be a key player in the gaming industry, known for its creative gameplay mechanics and engaging narratives.
Insomniac Games is renowned for its vibrant, imaginative worlds, dynamic gameplay, and engaging storytelling. The "Ratchet & Clank" series featured inventive weapons and gadgets and has been a staple of PlayStation's platforming lineup. "Spider-Man" and its sequel "Spider-Man: Miles Morales" have been praised for their fluid web-slinging mechanics, detailed open-world design, and compelling character-driven stories. The studio's versatility is further showcased in titles like "Sunset Overdrive," which combines over-the-top action with a colorful, irreverent aesthetic; and the "Resistance" series, known for its gritty, alternate-history setting. Insomniac's ability to blend humor, heart, and high-octane action has earned it a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim, making it one of the most respected studios in the industry.
Top Games:
- Spider-Man (2018)
- Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (2021)
- Sunset Overdrive (2014)
- Resistance 3 (2011)
- Spyro Reignited Trilogy (2018)
16. Bungie
Bungie was founded in 1991 by Alex Seropian and Jason Jones and has left an unmistakable mark on the gaming industry with its iconic franchises and innovative gameplay. Originally based in Chicago before moving to Washington, Bungie gained prominence in the late 1990s with the release of "Marathon," a critically acclaimed first-person shooter known for its complex narrative and immersive gameplay, playing a large role in shaping the genre before it exploded in the twenty-first century. It was the launch of the "Halo" series that solidified Bungie's reputation as a leading developer. "Halo: Combat Evolved" introduced players to the epic sci-fi universe of Master Chief and the Covenant, setting new standards for console shooters.
Bungie is renowned for its ability to create immersive worlds, compelling narratives, and polished gameplay mechanics. The "Halo" series, particularly "Halo 2" and "Halo 3," revolutionized online multiplayer gaming on consoles, offering robust multiplayer modes and engaging cooperative gameplay way before Fortnite was ever dreamed up. After parting ways with Microsoft, Bungie ventured into the online multiplayer realm with "Destiny" and its sequel, "Destiny 2,” both of which were explosive hits. These games blend first-person shooting mechanics with MMO-style progression and cooperative gameplay, offering players vast, interconnected worlds to explore and conquer. Bungie's dedication to community engagement and ongoing content updates has fostered a loyal player base and established "Destiny" as a dominating franchise in the gaming landscape.
Top Games:
- Destiny 2 (2017)
- Halo: Combat Evolved (2001)
- Halo 2 (2004)
- Halo 3 (2007)
- Marathon (1994)
15. Bandai Namco Entertainment
Bandai Namco Entertainment has been a prominent figure in the gaming industry since the very beginning. Originally founded in 1955 as Namco, a small company working with amusement rides, the company steadily grew into a global entertainment firm throughout the last half of the twentieth century. It then merged with Bandai in 2005 to form Bandai Namco Entertainment. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the company has a diverse role in different genres and platforms. Bandai Namco is celebrated for its founding contributions to both arcade and home gaming, with iconic franchises like "Pac-Man" and "Tekken" becoming synonymous with gaming culture worldwide. The company's commitment to quality and innovation has allowed it to remain a leading force in the global entertainment market.
Bandai Namco Entertainment is renowned for its ability to blend rich storytelling, engaging gameplay, and technical excellence across its titles. "Dark Souls III," part of the critically acclaimed action RPG series, is praised for its challenging gameplay mechanics and engaging world design. "Tekken 7," the latest installment in the long-running fighting game series, continues to captivate players with its deep combat system and diverse roster of characters. "Dragon Ball FighterZ," a fast-paced 2D fighting game, has been celebrated for its faithful adaptation of the Dragon Ball universe and competitive gameplay. "Tales of Arise," a more recent addition to the Tales series, has impressed fans with its vibrant visuals and compelling narrative. Additionally, "Pac-Man 256," a modern twist on the classic arcade game, showcases Bandai Namco's ability to reinvent beloved franchises for contemporary audiences. Bandai Namco Entertainment's enduring success and cultural impact highlight its role as a pioneer in the gaming industry.
Top Games:
- Dark Souls III (2016)
- Tekken 7 - (2015)
- Dragon Ball FighterZ (2018)
- Tales of Arise (2021)
- Pac-Man 256 (2015)
14. Naughty Dog
Naughty Dog was founded in 1984 by Andy Gavin and Jason Rubin and has established itself as one of the premier studios in the gaming industry. Initially known for titles like "Crash Bandicoot" and "Jak and Daxter," the company gained widespread acclaim for its narrative-driven games. Acquired by Sony Computer Entertainment in 2001, Naughty Dog became a key player in developing exclusive titles for PlayStation consoles. The studio has had major successes with the "Uncharted" series, but followed that up with the "The Last of Us," which became a massive success and received popular and critical acclaim for its cinematic storytelling, rich characters, and immersive gameplay; making it one of the most successful franchises in history. Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Naughty Dog continues to push the boundaries of interactive storytelling and technical excellence.
Naughty Dog is renowned for its masterful storytelling, exceptional character development, and groundbreaking graphics. The "Uncharted" series, featuring the adventures of Nathan Drake, is celebrated for its action sequences. "The Last of Us" series, exploring themes of survival and human connection in a post-apocalyptic world, has received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and narrative sophistication and has become a cult-classic which was followed by its sequel, “The Last of Us Part II” in 2020. Naughty Dog's commitment to quality and innovation is evident in every aspect of their games, from meticulously crafted environments to exceptional performances by voice actors. This has earned it a worldwide fanbase and even a popular HBO series based on “The Last of Us.”
Top Games:
- The Last of Us (2013)
- Uncharted 4: A Thief's End (2016)
- The Last of Us Part II (2020)
- Uncharted: The Lost Legacy (2017)
- Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy (2017)
13. Capcom
Capcom has been a significant force in the gaming industry since its founding in 1979. Known for its action-adventure and fighting games, Capcom has created some of the most enduring and beloved franchises in gaming history. Headquartered in Osaka, Japan, the company gained early success with arcade hits like "Street Fighter" and "Mega Man." Capcom's ability to innovate and adapt has allowed it to remain relevant through the decades, consistently delivering high-quality games that attract players worldwide.
Capcom is renowned for its fast-paced gameplay and memorable characters. The "Resident Evil" series revolutionized the survival horror genre with its intense atmosphere and engaging puzzles. "Monster Hunter: World" brought the franchise to a global audience, offering deep, cooperative gameplay and expansive worlds. "Street Fighter V" continues the legacy of the iconic fighting series with refined mechanics and a diverse roster. "Devil May Cry 5" is celebrated for its stylish action and fluid combat, while "Mega Man 11" combines nostalgic elements with modern design to long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Top Games:
- Resident Evil 2 (2019)
- Monster Hunter: World (2018)
- Street Fighter V (2016)
- Devil May Cry 5 (2019)
- Mega Man 11 (2018)
12. Square Enix
Square Enix, a renowned Japanese video game developer and publisher, was formed from the merger of Square and Enix in 2003. Known for its role-playing games (RPGs), Square Enix has created some of the most iconic and influential titles in the genre. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the company is famous for its compelling storytelling, rich worlds, and memorable characters. With franchises like "Final Fantasy," "Dragon Quest," and "Kingdom Hearts," Square Enix has captivated millions of players around the world and continues to be a leader in the RPG genre.
Square Enix is celebrated for its masterful storytelling, immersive worlds, and innovative gameplay mechanics. "Final Fantasy VII Remake" reimagines a beloved classic with stunning visuals and modernized gameplay. "Kingdom Hearts III" combines the worlds of Disney and Square Enix into a magical adventure filled with heartfelt moments and dynamic action. "Dragon Quest XI" stays true to its roots while delivering a grand, captivating RPG experience. "NieR: Automata" is praised for its profound narrative and unique combat system. "Tomb Raider (2013)" reboots the iconic series with a fresh, gritty take on Lara Croft's origin story, blending exploration and survival elements.
Top Games:
- Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)
- Kingdom Hearts III (2019)
- Dragon Quest XI (2017)
- NieR: Automata (2017)
- Tomb Raider (2013)
11. Ubisoft
Ubisoft, a global gaming company founded in 1986 in France, is known for its open-world games and innovative gameplay mechanics. With headquarters in Montreuil, France, and studios around the world, Ubisoft has developed a wide range of successful franchises. The company's focus on creating expansive, immersive worlds has made it a leader in the gaming industry. Ubisoft's ability to combine engaging narratives with cutting-edge technology has resulted in some of the most popular and critically acclaimed games of all time.
Ubisoft is renowned for its expansive open-world designs, engaging narratives, and innovative gameplay mechanics. The "Assassin's Creed" series has captivated players with its historical settings and stealth-based gameplay. The "Far Cry" series offers vast, open-world environments and intense first-person action. "Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege" is celebrated for its tactical multiplayer gameplay and strategic depth. "Watch Dogs: Legion" introduces innovative gameplay mechanics with its "play as anyone" feature, offering a unique open-world experience. "The Division 2" blends RPG elements with third-person shooting in a detailed, post-apocalyptic Washington D.C..
Top Games:
- Assassin's Creed Series (2007–2024)
- Far Cry Series (2004–2019)
- Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege (2015)
- Watch Dogs Series (2014-2020)
- The Division 2 (2019)
10. Activision Blizzard
Activision Blizzard, now one of the largest gaming companies in the world, was formed by the merger of Activision and Blizzard Entertainment in 2008. The company is headquartered in Santa Monica, California, and is known for its blockbuster franchises that have defined genres and set industry standards for most of the twenty-first century. With a diverse portfolio spanning first-person shooters, MMORPGs, and real-time strategy games, Activision Blizzard has consistently delivered high-quality, engaging experiences to players globally.
Activision Blizzard is renowned for its blockbuster franchises, immersive gameplay, and strong community engagement. "Call of Duty: Warzone" redefined the battle royale genre with its fast-paced action and strategic depth. "World of Warcraft," the iconic MMORPG, has maintained a dedicated player base for over a decade with its expansive world and rich lore. "Overwatch" brought team-based multiplayer shooting to new heights with its diverse cast of characters and dynamic gameplay. "Diablo III" offers addictive hack-and-slash gameplay with deep RPG elements. "Hearthstone," a digital collectible card game, combines strategic deck-building with accessible gameplay, attracting millions of players. Activision Blizzard's high-quality, engaging experiences ensures its continued dominance in the gaming industry.
Top Games:
- Call of Duty: Warzone (2020)
- World of Warcraft (2004)
- Overwatch (2016)
- Diablo III (2012)
- Hearthstone (2014)
9. FromSoftware
FromSoftware, a Japanese video game developer established in 1986, has become a prominent name in the gaming industry, known for its challenging and memorable titles. The company initially focused on productivity software but later shifted to game development, achieving its first major success with the "Armored Core'' series in the late 1990s. Hidetaka Miyazaki, who eventually became legendary in the industry, was brought on as a planner on the seventh installment of the series in 2004. However, it was the release of Miyazaki’s projects "Demon's Souls" in 2009, followed by the critically acclaimed "Dark Souls" series, that catapulted FromSoftware to international fame. These games introduced players to extremely intricate level design, immersive lore, and a notoriously high difficulty level that was practically unparalleled and demanded skill and dedication to complete.
These were followed up across the years by titles “Bloodborne," "Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice," and the more recent "Elden Ring,” each of which received immense critical acclaim and overwhelming commercial success, all under the direction of Miyazaki. He brought on the renowned author of the Game of Thrones series, George R.R. Martin, to write the entire mythology and backstory of the game, transforming the “Soulsbourne” genre that he Miyazaki invented into an open-world RPG with depth that outdid anything that came before it.
FromSoftware is renowned for its ability to craft deeply immersive worlds filled with rich lore and interconnected environments. The studio's games are celebrated for their meticulous design, which rewards intensive exploration of the virtual environment and extremely precise mastery of combat mechanics. The recent successes have solidified the company's reputation for delivering intense, rewarding gameplay experiences. FromSoftware's unique style has earned it a dedicated fan base and heavily influenced a whole new subgenre of action RPGs, often referred to as "Soulsborne'' games. The developer's commitment to pushing the boundaries of game design continues to inspire both players and creators alike.
Top Games:
- Dark Souls (2011)
- Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019)
- Bloodborne (2015)
- Demon's Souls (2009)
- Elden Ring (2022)
8. Electronic Arts (EA)
Electronic Arts (EA), an American video game developer and publisher founded in 1982 by Trip Hawkins, is known for its sports games, as well as action and simulation titles. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, EA has become one of the largest and most influential companies in the gaming industry through its prolific creation of games across genres. EA's diverse works include popular franchises ranging from sports simulations to expansive action-adventure games. The company's commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences has solidified its reputation as a leader in the industry.
EA is renowned for its sports simulations, engaging gameplay, and innovative features. "FIFA 21" continues the legacy of the long-running soccer series with realistic gameplay and comprehensive game modes. "Apex Legends," a battle royale shooter, has gained a massive following with its fast-paced action and unique character abilities. "The Sims 4" offers players the ability to create and control virtual lives, providing endless creative possibilities. "Battlefield V" delivers intense, large-scale warfare with realistic graphics and dynamic environments. "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order" combines action-adventure gameplay with an engaging story set in the beloved Star Wars universe.
Top Games:
- FIFA 21 (2020)
- Apex Legends (2019)
- The Sims 4 (2014)
- Battlefield V (2018)
- Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order (2019)
7. Valve Corporation
Valve Corporation is both a game developer and a digital distribution company, known for its dominance in PC gaming. It was founded in 1996 by Gabe Newell and Mike Harrington. Its critically acclaimed games and its digital distribution platform Steam have played significant roles in shaping the entire industry and gaming culture around the world. Headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, Valve's innovative approach to game design and distribution has garnered widespread acclaim. The company's games are celebrated for their creativity, depth, and impact..
Valve is renowned for its groundbreaking games, innovative mechanics, and community-driven platform. "Half-Life 2," a landmark first-person shooter, is praised for its storytelling, physics-based gameplay, and immersive world. "Portal 2" combines mind-bending puzzles with dark humor and a compelling narrative. "Dota 2," a popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, has a dedicated player base and a thriving esports scene. "Counter-Strike: Global Offensive" remains one of the most played competitive shooters worldwide, known for its tactical depth and skill-based gameplay. "Team Fortress 2" offers team-based multiplayer action with a unique art style and diverse classes.
Top Games:
- Half-Life 2 (2004)
- Portal 2 (2011)
- Dota 2 (2013)
- Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (2012)
- Team Fortress 2 (2007)
6. Microsoft Studios
Microsoft Studios, the gaming division of Microsoft, is known for its Xbox consoles and a wide range of game franchises. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft Studios has developed and published some of the most popular and influential games in the industry. This shouldn’t surprise anybody as it is a part of one of the biggest companies in world history. Studios’ focus on innovation has ensured it a constant place in any list of the best video game companies, and With a diverse list of titles that includes first-person shooters, racing games, and action-adventure titles, it is one of the most well-recognized brands in the industry.
Microsoft Studios is renowned for its high-quality games, innovative technology, and prolific franchises. "Halo Infinite" continues the legacy of the iconic first-person shooter series with engaging gameplay and a compelling story. "Forza Horizon 4" offers a breathtaking open-world racing experience with stunning visuals and realistic driving mechanics. "Gears 5" delivers intense third-person shooter action with a gripping narrative and cooperative gameplay. "Sea of Thieves" allows players to embark on pirate adventures in a shared online world, emphasizing exploration and cooperation. "Ori and the Will of the Wisps" is celebrated for its beautiful art, emotional storytelling, and challenging platforming.
Top Games:
- Halo Infinite (2021)
- Forza Horizon 4 (2018)
- Gears 5 (2019)
- Sea of Thieves (2018)
- Ori and the Will of the Wisps (2020)
5. CD Projekt Red
CD Projekt Red, a Polish video game developer founded in 2002, is one of the only companies on this list not from either Japan or the United States. It’s acclaimed for its rich, story-driven RPGs, especially the extremely popular “Witcher” series, which was turned into a Netflix series starring Henry Cavill. “The Witcher” has been a standard-setting game series in the RPG genre for years, and has earned it one of the largest and most committed fanbases of any franchise. The company's dedication to delivering high-quality worlds and enduring gaming experiences has earned it critical acclaim and numerous industry awards as well.
CD Projekt Red is renowned for its deep storytelling, complex characters, and expansive worlds. "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" is hailed as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, praised for its intricate narrative, vast open world, and richly detailed lore. "Cyberpunk 2077," despite its rough and controversial rollout, offers a futuristic open-world experience with branching storylines and immersive gameplay. "Gwent: The Witcher Card Game" brings strategic card-based gameplay to the "Witcher" universe. "Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales" combines card-battling with narrative-driven RPG elements, providing a unique and compelling experience. "The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings" built on the foundation of its predecessor, offering improved combat and storytelling.
Top Games:
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)
- Cyberpunk 2077 (2020)
- Gwent: The Witcher Card Game (2018)
- Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales (2018)
- The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings (2011)
4. Rockstar Games
Rockstar Games, an American video game developer and publisher founded in 1998, is known for its highly detailed open-world games and narrative-driven experiences. Headquartered in New York City, Rockstar Games has created some of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful titles in the gaming industry. The company's commitment to creating immersive, living worlds with engaging stories and sarcastic humor has set it apart as a leader in the field. With franchises like "Grand Theft Auto" and "Red Dead Redemption," Rockstar Games continues to be dominant in the industry despite making fans wait exceptionally long in between titles (I’m still waiting on GTA 6).
Rockstar Games is renowned for its detailed open-world environments, compelling narratives, and immersive gameplay. "Grand Theft Auto V" offers a sprawling, dynamic world filled with engaging characters and endless activities, making it one of the best-selling games of all time. "Red Dead Redemption 2" is praised for its breathtaking open world, emotional storytelling, and meticulous attention to detail. "L.A. Noire" combines detective gameplay with a richly detailed recreation of 1940s Los Angeles. "Max Payne 3" delivers intense, cinematic action with a gripping narrative and innovative gameplay mechanics. "Bully" offers a unique take on open-world gameplay set in a school environment, blending humor and adventure.
Top Games:
- Grand Theft Auto V (2013)
- Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)
- L.A. Noire (2011)
- Max Payne 3 (2012)
- Bully (2006)
3. Bethesda Game Studios
Bethesda Game Studios, an American video game developer founded in 2001, is renowned for its open-world RPGs and immersive storytelling. A subsidiary of ZeniMax Media, the studio is headquartered in Rockville, Maryland. Bethesda's games are celebrated for their expansive worlds, rich lore, and player freedom. The company's flagship franchises, "The Elder Scrolls" and "Fallout," have set new standards for open-world game design and narrative depth. Bethesda's commitment to creating detailed, immersive experiences has earned it a dedicated fan base and numerous industry accolades.
Bethesda Game Studios is renowned for its richly detailed open worlds, deep narratives, and player agency. "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" is celebrated for its vast, immersive world and endless exploration opportunities, making it one of the most influential RPGs of all time. "Fallout 4" offers a post-apocalyptic open world filled with engaging characters, branching storylines, and deep customization options. "Doom Eternal" revitalizes the classic first-person shooter franchise with fast-paced action and stunning visuals. "Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus" combines intense shooting mechanics with a gripping, alternate-history narrative. "Prey (2017)" delivers a unique blend of psychological horror and immersive sim gameplay, set in a beautifully crafted sci-fi environment.
Top Games:
- The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)
- Fallout 4 (2015)
- Doom Eternal (2020)
- Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus (2017)
- Prey (2017) (2017)
2. Sony Interactive Entertainment
Sony Interactive Entertainment, the gaming division of Sony, was established in 1993 and is responsible for the PlayStation series of consoles and a variety of popular game franchises. Headquartered in San Mateo, California, Sony Interactive Entertainment has played a crucial role in shaping the gaming industry with one of the most dominant consoles ever created. The company's focus on high-quality, exclusive titles has helped it build a strong brand and a loyal player base (whether by choice or by force). With franchises like "The Last of Us," "God of War," and "Uncharted," Sony Interactive Entertainment continues to deliver some of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful games in the industry.
Sony Interactive Entertainment is renowned for its narratively rich franchises and innovative gameplay, and notorious for captivating its audiences. "The Last of Us Part II" continues the emotional and gripping story of its predecessor, successfully combining intense horror/suspense gameplay with some of the best narrative and character depth in the genre. "God of War (2018)" reimagines the iconic franchise with a deeply personal story and refined combat mechanics, making it one of the best-selling games of all time. "Uncharted 4: A Thief's End" provides a thrilling conclusion to Nathan Drake's adventures with breathtaking set pieces and engaging storytelling. "Spider-Man" captures the essence of the beloved superhero with fluid web-slinging and an immersive open-world New York City. "Bloodborne," developed in collaboration with FromSoftware, another member of our list, offers a dark, gothic action RPG experience with challenging gameplay and expansive world design.
Top Games:
- The Last of Us Part II (2020)
- God of War (2018) (2018)
- Uncharted 4: A Thief's End (2016)
- Spider-Man (2018)
- Bloodborne (2015)
1. Nintendo
One of the leading innovators in gaming since at least the 1980s, Kyoto-based Nintendo has long been an iconic force in the industry. Founded in 1889 as a craft playing card company, Nintendo became recognizable in its present form in the 1980s-1990s when it came out with some of the most popular console gaming systems, especially the innovative handheld console, the Gameboy. It has been a pioneer ever since, crafting some of the most iconic brands and characters in the world. With its focus on family-friendly entertainment, it has earned a dedicated fan base and a lasting legacy that is almost on par with some of the other most recognizable brands in the world.
Nintendo became a household name early on with the creation of “Donkey Kong” and the “Super Mario Brothers,” followed later on by franchises such as “Zelda.” Recently, "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" redefined open-world exploration with its vast, dynamic world and player freedom. "Super Mario Odyssey" offers imaginative platforming gameplay with charming visuals and creative level design. "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" provides a relaxing, immersive life simulation experience that has captivated players globally. "Splatoon 2" combines colorful, fast-paced multiplayer action with a unique, ink-based mechanic. "Super Smash Bros. Ultimate" brings together characters from across Nintendo's franchises in a thrilling, competitive fighting game.
Top Games:
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)
- Super Mario Odyssey (2017)
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020)
- Splatoon 2 (2017)
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2018)
