September 2024

Trying to round up the best FPS games of all time is hard. The first-person shooter genre is one of the most influential in gaming. These games have defined generations from landmark franchises like DOOM and Quake to modern-day behemoths Call of Duty and Halo. Still, we love a challenge. After venturing onto the battlefield, we’re back to report with our list of the best FPS games we believe everyone should play at least once. As a bonus, we’re going to include some of the best free FPS games; because it doesn’t matter that some of these titles are free to play. They’re better than the other games on this list in certain cases! As a disclaimer, this list is ranked in no particular order. Also, only one game per franchise will appear on the list. Otherwise, we might be here all day. Let’s begin!

DOOM: Still One Of The Best FPS Games

The granddaddy of them all is also one of the best FPS games of all time. Originally released in 1993, DOOM helped revolutionize not just the FPS genre but all gaming. Bethesda has recently done well with the franchise in 2016’s DOOM and its sequel, DOOM Eternal. As great as those titles are, DOOM can go toe to toe with them even 30 years later. An absolutely killer soundtrack, great level design, and fast-paced action deliver a memorable experience. DOOM was great when I first played it in the late 90s. It’s still great when I play it today. Whether on my computer, Switch, Game Boy, Peloton, or virtually any other device, DOOM is still worth your time in 2022.

Quake 3 Arena: A Classic FPS Game Made Even Better!

Like DOOM, the Quake franchise was highly influential for the FPS genre. While some may argue that Quake or Quake II is the series’ highmark, Quake 3 Arena defines what it means to be an arena-based competitive shooter. All other multiplayer FPS games draw inspiration from Quake 3 Arena. There isn’t much in gimmicks or gameplay hooks; it’s a pure deathmatch experience, making it one of the best FPS games of all time. Others on this list have evolved with the times to incorporate systems and mechanics. At their core, they follow the guidelines laid out from Quake 3 Arena to deliver satisfying gameplay.

Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory

One of the best free FPS games of all time rightfully earns its spot amongst the best FPS games ever. Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory didn’t come with gimmicks or bait. There were no pay-to-win options. The scrapped Return to Castle Wolfenstein expansion had its multiplayer released as freeware. Those who gave it a shot were rewarded with one of the greatest class-based team shooters of all time. A devoted following kept content coming with various gameplay and map mods, resulting in a healthy player base. With the game recently seeing a Steam release, it’s a good time to give it a shot.

Halo: Combat Evolved

Halo didn’t just launch a franchise. It launched the entire Xbox brand. It arrived on the scene bursting through the door and never looking back. Bungie and Microsoft crafted one of the greatest games of all time. A genre-defining experience, Halo delivers on all fronts. The campaign provides memorable action and infinite replayability with its cooperative mode. Characters like Master Chief are worth remembering. Halo: Combat Evolved is an experience that you’ll never forget. Last but not least is the competitive multiplayer, helping to shape the future of multiplayer gaming. Halo provides the definitive FPS multiplayer experience without the advantage of online gaming. While playing games online is easier than ever, nothing has come close to Halo LAN parties.

Metroid Prime

The decision to move the Metroid franchise to a first-person camera was controversial. Retro Studios’ gamble paid off as Metroid Prime is not just one of the best GameCube games ever but also one of the best FPS games of all time. While an unconventional FPS compared to others on this list, it still belongs in the genre. While an adventure and exploration game at heart, Metroid Prime still delivers on the action. Moving from the side-scrolling perspective to first-person enhances that exploration and adventure. The game tasks players with being more aware and more alert to their environment and surroundings. Combine that with the fantastic shoot-outs, and you have an all-time classic. The recent Nintendo Switch remaster only enforces this.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2

I know it’s hard to believe that there used to be a time when Call of Duty would continually one-up itself. Trust me, though, that time was the mid to late 2000s. A sequel to 2007’s critically acclaimed Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Modern Warfare 2 made what was already one of the best FPS games of all time even better. An already perfected multiplayer experience was made even better, but the true star of Modern Warfare 2 is the campaign. An over-the-top narrative sets the stage for the best characters and level design the franchise has ever seen. The best part, though, is the lack of infinitely respawning enemies or bullets pouring out of random buildings. Modern Warfare 2’s campaign is populated with living, breathing environments inhabited by actual people, not nameless enemies. It’s a breath of fresh air that feels out of place with recent entries in the franchise.

Superhot

One of the more unique entries on the list, Superhot is still easily one of the best FPS games. The indie title has one simple gimmick: time only moves when your character does. This allows for insane moves straight of The Matrix. You, just like Neo, can punch an enemy, grab their gun out of mid-air, empty your clip into enemies, and then throw the gun at someone else to hinder them. All in the span of just one or two seconds of real-time action! Superhot lets you live out all of your greatest action movie desires. It’s an experience you’ll never forget. That goes tenfold if you play the game in VR. Virtual Reality is made for games like Superhot.

Rainbow Six: Siege

Few games have had the staying power of Rainbow Six: Siege. Released in 2015, seven years after Rainbow Six: Vegas and its sequel, Vegas 2, helped put the franchise back on the map, Siege helps redefine the tactical FPS genre. Not only is it an example of a successful “game as a service,” but easily one of the best FPS games of all time. Ubisoft has constantly supported Siege post-launch with content updates and a thriving eSports scene. After its launch, they made a promise to keep the game fully and delivered. Just look at the list of DLC the game has seen across six years! Rainbow Six: Siege doesn’t just provide tense and satisfying tactical combat but is a shining example of how to employ the “games as a service” model successfully. Continued updates have helped the core gameplay loop remain fresh and enjoyable.

Overwatch

Blizzard’s first new IP in years is Overwatch, a team-based tactical ability-oriented shooter. Combining elements of various genres and well-known franchises, it became one of the best FPS games of all time. Upon its release, Overwatch was an immediate success. Its 6v6 objective-based gameplay meshed well with MOBA-inspired heroes, complete with various abilities. It meshes well with the game’s personality, which oozes from the screen. The characters and environment feel alive and vibrant, taking on their own lives alongside the gameplay. The objectives themselves aren’t revolutionary, but they didn’t need to be either. The true innovation Overwatch provides is delivering engrossing gameplay despite your role. It’s never been this much fun playing a healer in an FPS; Overwatch may have stumbled from its peak, but you can’t deny how great the game was then. Even today, it’s still a good time.

Valorant: A Free FPS Game And Instant Classic!

Without Overwatch, there would be no Valorant. If Overwatch is the MOBA version of an objective-based shooter, then Valorant is the MOBA version of Counterstrike specifically. An instant hit since its release, Valorant is not just the best free FPS game on the market currently but also one greatest of all time. Focusing the hero-based shooter on more tactical gameplay over objectives pays off in spades. Each match is tense and exciting. Each match is also a Best of 25 which means you’ll be playing a lot more than you may realize. As nice as quick matches can be in games like Counterstrike or Gears of War, sometimes it feels like you’re in a lobby more than the actual match.

Apex Legends: Another Free FPS Game And Smash Hit!

When it was released out of nowhere in 2019, Apex Legends quickly cemented itself in the Battle Royale genre as one of the best free FPS games of all time. Other battle royales lacked the fast-paced action developer Respawn Entertainment is known for. The decision to focus on unique heroes with abilities pays off just like it does in Valorant and Overwatch. The result is a unique take on the genre that keeps things constantly fresh and innovative. Speaking of innovation, the ping system is a very welcome addition to help assist with nonverbal communication. Finally, the decision to keep every match filled with three-player squads helps ease in newer players that may otherwise be on their own. Having everyone in a group is a wonderful addition that helps remove many of the “feel bad” moments that sometimes exist when you’re playing a Battle Royale alone. Given all of this, it’s easy to call Apex Legends one of the best FPS games of all time.

Destiny 2

When Bungie moved on from the Halo franchise, they delivered Destiny, a live service MMOFPS. Destiny was a great game that often got in its own way, featuring incredibly tight gameplay and top-notch level and encounter design. With the sequel, Destiny 2 establishes itself as one of the best FPS games on the market. While it may not always have the market share of other genre behemoths, Destiny 2 has an incredibly devoted following, and for good reasons. That same gameplay, level, and encounter design that made the original so good are better than ever. Improvements to the game’s systems, entertaining narrative, and continuous post-launch support help make the game better than ever.

Unreal Tournament

While DOOM and Quake may have all the headlines for being some of the most well-known original FPS games, the conversation isn’t complete without Unreal Tournament. Released in 1999, it helped put Epic Games on the map. Not only is it one of the best FPS games, but also one of the greatest games ever made. At the time of its release, the game was a revolutionary title, complete with graphics, level design, gameplay, and experiences never thought possible. It took gamers to a world never thought possible, and the FPS genre and gaming industry have never looked back. What helps make Unreal Tournament the all-time classic is the core gameplay loop being fundamentally sound. If you’re playing stock multiplayer modes or customizing each game to your heart’s desire, you’re going to have a great time.

Deus Ex: An FPS Game Offering Innovations Still Used Today

When it was released in 2000, Deus Ex started out as a sleeper hit. The FPS/RPG delivers an (at the time) innovative narrative that puts emphasis on player choice. The option for multiplayer narrative paths has become an industry standard today for the genre. As time has gone on, fans have helped make Deus Ex one of the best FPS games of all time. Deus Ex proves that even after the onslaught of revolutionary releases in the 90s, the genre can keep growing and pushing forward. What it lacks in visual prowess, it more than makes up for it in style, atmosphere, and mood. Deus Ex might not draw you on at first, but as you venture and explore more, you can’t help but become hooked.

Left 4 Dead: One Of The Best FPS Games For Cooperative Play

While the current trend in team-based shooters is to create heroes with unique abilities, Left 4 Dead instead focuses on four ordinary people trying to survive the zombie apocalypse. As a result, the core mechanics perfectly blend survival horror and team-based shooting. The result is one best FPS games for cooperative play. The campaigns in Left 4 Dead are admittedly lacking; there are only four, but the game still manages to keep things fresh. The enemy AI, known as The Director, helps create a dynamic experience. This keeps things fresh for players that may have maps memorized inside and out; even though you swear certain parts of a map were safe the last 15-20 times you played it, there’s no guarantee that remains true. Left 4 Dead is still one of the best co-op shooters available today, if not the best. Others, including its sequel, have tried to expand the gameplay foundation and emulate success, but they all have been unable to capture the original’s magic.

Crysis

Crysis became best known for being the gorgeous game very few computers could run at full power on its release. As its legacy has grown, it’s become less known for that and more for being a hero-based shooter that lets you do virtually anything your heart desires. The game’s story is best taking a back seat to the gameplay. The Nanosuit abilities make players feel like an unstoppable force ready to defeat immovable objects. Combined with some weapon modifications that allow for beyond satisfying results (laser sight shotgun sniping people never gets old). Is Crysis perfect? No, far from it, but it’s still one heck of a time and one of the best FPS games ever made.

Call of Duty: Warzone

Warzone just may be the best free FPS game on the market and the best Battle Royale. It blends the twitch-based gameplay Call of Duty has become known for with the tension found in survival shooters. It may not do much to put a new spin on gameplay, but it more than makes up for it with level design. Every map we’ve seen with Warzone is a home run, filled with many hotspots for firefights and options to explore. Things are almost too daunting at first, but the gameplay keeps egging the player on. The more you put into Warzone, the more you’ll discover and improve. It’s a game that can appeal to those that aren’t necessarily fans of the genre. Call of Duty may have gotten a bit stale over the years, but the gameplay remains fundamentally sound, enjoyable, and even accessible. That combination helps make Warzone worth playing.

Far Cry 3

When Far Cry 3 was released in 2012, the franchise was at a crossroads. The original release was a solid FPS experience, whereas the sequel was an ambitious title that didn’t always deliver. With the franchise’s next game, Ubisoft took the criticism to heart and released one of the best FPS on the market. Far Cry 3 delivers where it counts most. Creating the over-the-top villain Vaas Montenegro was an accomplishment, but the true highlight is the Rook Islands themselves. The world and environment are as important of a character as Vaas himself. This helps make the gameplay work, combining tactical shooting with survival elements to deliver memorable experiences. It’s no secret why each subsequent Far Cry release has followed in Far Cry 3’s footsteps. The formula worked wonders then, and it still works wonders a decade later.

Borderlands 2

Sometimes the sequel is better than the original. If there is any game on this list to defy the sequel trope, it’s Borderlands 2. Bigger and better over the original in virtually every way, Borderlands 2 expands in every possible way. The most noticeable change is the environment. No longer are players traversing an endless desert. The result is more varied biomes that keep things fresh and constantly introduce new challenges. Gameplay and weapons are still an absolute delight, pairing well with the looter-shooter mechanics. Over-the-top writing, dialogue, and style continue to mesh well with the game’s design and characters. There’s a reason why the Borderlands franchise always sticks with the tried and true formula: they work.

Team Fortress 2

The original Team Fortress started as a Quake mod. The follow-up, Team Fortress 2, was originally released in Valve’s The Orange Box package and is one of the best FPS games of all time. It eventually saw a standalone release and moved to a free-to-play model in 2011.  It is still one of the best free FPS games ever made. Everything about Team Fortress 2 just works: the characters, level design, art direction, gameplay, environments, style, substance, everything. Every class has a distinct playstyle and a personality to match it as well. Playing Team Fortress 2 wasn’t just about playing a good game. It was about having a great time. It arguably stands the test of time today, and if Valve can handle the bot problems, then the future of TF2 is looking bright.

GoldenEye 007: The Best FPS Game For N64 And An Iconic Classic

Before Halo revolutionized the console FPS, there was Goldeneye. Released for the Nintendo 64 in 1997, GoldenEye 007 firmly established itself as one of the best FPS games ever released. The game’s single-player campaign follows the movie’s narrative well. Level and environment design are at the top of their game, as are character designs. The game’s graphics have obviously not aged well, but at the time, they were impressive. You knew that was James Bond. You knew that was Boris Grishenko. Even the generic enemies had a distinct appearance (most of the time)! Where GoldenEye 007 truly shines is multiplayer. The level design is just as good as the campaign, but the weapon design is even better. The impressive arsenal at your disposal leads to a variety of match types. Games featuring tactical mines play out far differently than power weapons. GoldenEye’s multiplayer felt ahead of its time. It doesn’t control well, especially in today’s age, but it’s still an absolute gem.

Perfect Dark

For some, Perfect Dark is even better than GoldenEye 007. Both games are developed by Rare, which 2000’s Perfect Dark being a spiritual successor to GoldenEye. A game that pushed the Nintendo 64 to its limits, Perfect Dark delivers an incredibly satisfying sci-fi tactical shooter experience. The multiplayer benefits from the advanced weaponry from the Perfect Dark universe. The game’s single-player is just as good, too. The highlight of Perfect Dark is the weapons and tools at the player’s disposal. It feels like a legitimately infinite amount of possibilities are available to utilize. Rare’s creativity is on point throughout the game. From level design, multiplayer modes, weapons, enemy AI, and more, Perfect Dark is the pinnacle of achievement from the developer.

Titanfall 2

Many view the original Titanfall as an enjoyable but limited experience. It fell into the trap of a “launch window,” showcasing what was possible with the Xbox One console and Titanfall franchise but was lacking in many areas. Titanfall 2 addressed all of the original’s criticisms in spades. The result is a natural growth of what made the original an enjoyable game, expanding in virtually every possible way. The existence of a full-fledged single-player experience alone is an improvement. Respawn delivers beyond the bare minimum, providing an enjoyable and entertaining narrative. Multiplayer is better than ever, thanks to fantastic multiplayer arenas filled with options for pilots and plenty of room for Titans to wreak havoc. The Titanfall franchise may be on the backburner currently, but Titanfall 2 proves it is capable of delivering one of the best FPS games ever made.

Bioshock

There was virtually no way BioShock could live up to its lofty expectations. Billed as a spiritual successor to the beloved System Shock 2, Ken Levine and Irrational Games made an unforgettable experience in BioShock. The underwater world of Rapture is mesmerizing in its beauty and mystery. Non-linear exploration awaits the dark corners of the dystopian ruins of Rapture. Gameplay-wise, BioShock mixes elements from a wide variety of genres: action, RPG, survival, stealth, and shooter. Strengths from each genre are all on display here. The ability to take down the imposing Big Daddies in various ways is an absolute delight. BioShock’s highlight is the story, told mostly through audio recordings. They paint the picture of everything Rapture was meant to be and everything that went wrong. Twists and turns await the player as they dig deeper to uncover the truth of what happened and why he’s even in Rapture at all.

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

I toyed long and hard between Biohazard and Village as the Resident Evil selection. What tipped the scales in Biohazard’s favor was an overall more even experience. After the disastrous Resident Evil 6, Capcom took the franchise back to its survival horror roots. There was, however, one key exception: the game would not be first person. The result is one of the greatest FPS games of all time. Biohazard knows when to lean in on the action and when to embrace survival horror. It delivers moment after moment of tense horror while still giving the player room to breathe and recover. Is it more survival horror than a shooter? Sure, but it’s still a brilliant game and one of the best overall releases of the past few years.

Portal

The least “shooter” game on this list, Portal is still one of the best FPS games of all time. Puzzles await the player as you navigate the labs of Aperture Science. The game itself is satisfyingly brief. It doesn’t overstay its welcome but also leaves you wanting more. The story, mostly told by the AI GLaDOS, also follows this mantra. You’re told the right amount of information and context through the game’s dialogue. Not too much to where you’re being hit over the head with its themes and meaning, but it also doesn’t overly hold back to leave you in the dark. Portal stands the test of time today as one of the greatest games ever made. Not bad for a throw-in title alongside Team Fortress 2, which we already talked about, and some other game within The Orange Box.

Half-Life

Can we just say what we’re all thinking? Valve makes not only some of the best FPS games of all time but also the best games ever made. This is the fourth (!) entry from Valve on this list, and that “some other game” alluded to earlier. Half-Life moved the entire FPS genre forward with the same innovation and growth as DOOM. It demonstrates just what an FPS game can do, helping pave the way for other games on this list, such as Portal, BioShock, and Metroid Prime. Valve showcases that the FPS genre doesn’t just have to be about shooting many things. It can deliver impactful stories, properly develop characters, and deliver a deep and meaningful experience. As great and innovative as Half-Life is, you could argue that its greatest contribution didn’t come from the actual game; it came from a mod.

Counter-Strike

Originally released as a Half-Life mod in 2000, Counter-Strike has become one of the, if not the definitive, best FPS games of all time. It has seen several releases throughout the years, such as Counter-Strike 1.6, Source, and Global Offensive. Yet the more things change, the more they stay the same. Counter-Strike’s core gameplay has not changed for the better part of two decades. Valve is following the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mantra to great success; Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is one of the most popular multiplayer games on Steam. It’s also one of the biggest eSports titles today. The concept behind Counter-Strike is simple: two opposing teams battle on a variety of maps in objective-based gameplay. You’ll remain on the sidelines until the next map if you die on the battlefield. It’s a simple system that does wonders, given the tactical nature of the game. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out of it.

While the prospect of more Splatoon, Zelda, and classic Game Boy titles is great, some fans are itching for old Nintendo franchises to return.

The most recent Nintendo Direct delivered some pleasant surprises, such as the shadow drop of Metroid Prime Remastered. Pikmin’s return this summer also makes fans eager to dive back into Nintendo’s strategy franchise.

Yet not everyone can be happy. Some (me) are asking, “Where’s F-Zero?” Many others are clamoring for the return of Tomodachi Life. That’s just the tip of the iceberg, too. Let’s rundown ten old Nintendo franchises we’re desperately hoping to come to Nintendo Switch.

Star Fox

Nintendo’s space combat franchise has been in a prolonged rut. Despite the success of Star Fox 64, no other game in the Star Fox series has seen the same universal acclaim. Sure, Star Fox Adventures on the Nintendo GameCube was a fun game. But that game had the Star Fox IP slapped on it at the end of development.

The last game in the series is 2016’s Star Fox Zero for the Wii U. Despite potential and being co-developed by Platinum Games, Star Fox Zero saw a mixed response. One possible reason is that Nintendo is unsure what to do with the franchise. Nintendo has repeatedly said they’re unsure what to do with the franchise. Sadly, for Star Fox fans, that’s apparent given the quality of games over the past decade-plus.

Here’s to hoping that Star Fox and company see a triumphant return.

Donkey Kong Country

Believe it or not, Donkey Kong Country has become an “old Nintendo franchise.”

It saw a revival on the Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Wii, and Wii U. The Retro Studios developed Donkey Kong Country Returns and Tropical Freeze were met with universal praise. The Nintendo Switch port of Tropical Freeze remains one of the best platformers available on the console.

Naturally, you’d expect a proper follow-up, right? Well, about that. Retro’s been busy working on Metroid Prime 4 after a troubled development cycle. It’s possible that Nintendo doesn’t trust anyone else with the Donkey Kong Country series, which is a shame. The DK crew will return one day, and it will be a glorious day. We’re getting Donkey Kong Country Returns HD for the Nintendo Switch, but we still want a proper sequel.

Tomodachi Life

If Nintendo released a new Tomodachi Life, I’d probably never see my wife again. While the game saw a spiritual successor release in Miitopia, it wasn’t quite the same.

The popular life simulator lets your Mii live out their fantasies. From shopping, hanging out with friends, performing on stage, and even falling in love.

Tomodachi Life has a hardcore following that spent the buildup to the most recent Nintendo Direct doing everything they can to conjure an announcement. While they would be disappointed, fans still hope for this old Nintendo franchise to return.

F-Zero

The F-Zero franchise appeared on every Nintendo system, from the Super Nintendo to the GameCube and Game Boy Advance. The high-speed racing series even saw an arcade release in 2003. Yet since 2004’s F-Zero Climax, we’ve only seen Captain Falcon in Super Smash Bros.

One possible reason the popular racing series has been stuck on the sidelines? A lack of new or innovative ideas. While an HD and online-supported F-Zero on Nintendo Switch sounds like a dream come true for many, that may not be enough for Nintendo to develop a new entry in the series.

Sure, we have F-Zero 99, but that’s not the same.

1080° Snowboarding

There’s been an unfortunate decline in the world of extreme sports games. In the past, though, that wasn’t the case. The 1080° Snowboarding saw two releases: one on Nintendo 64 and another on GameCube. Since then, however, it’s been nothing.

The recent remaster of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater proves that there’s still an audience for these games. Of course, with the constant stream of Mario Sports games on the Nintendo Switch, you’d figure Mario and company would want to hit the slopes.

Wave Race

Speaking of extreme sports, Wave Race is one of the more beloved old Nintendo franchises. It’s an absolute delight to play even today on Nintendo Switch Online. Like 1080°, Wave Race saw a release on the Nintendo 64 and GameCube. Additionally, the series saw a release on the Game Boy in 1992.

We’re not the only ones hoping for a return from wave Race, too. Shin’en Multimedia, known for their work on the Fast RMX games, expressed interest in seeing the series return.

Wario Land

The Wario Land franchise was running strong through the mid-90s and early 2000s. The series saw four mainline entries, plus a Wario World game for the GameCube in 2003, before spinning off into the WarioWare series.

The Nintendo Wii saw another entry in the Wario Land franchise: Wario Land: Shake It! Since that 2008 game, however, it’s been all WarioWare all the time.

Wario Land has been a perfect complement in the past to the Super Mario Bros. games. For some reason, the series seems to focus primarily on handheld releases on Game Boy and Game Boy Advance. With the debut of those platforms for Nintendo Switch Online, perhaps new interest can spur a new release.

Kid Icarus

Before its surprise release on the Nintendo 3DS, Kid Icarus was an older Nintendo franchise that seemed destined to stay on the NES. With 2012’s Kid Icarus: Uprising, the series leaned more into the third-person shooter/action genre.

Despite receiving praise from fans and critics, we haven’t seen a new Kid Icarus game since. One reason is that developer Project Sora was dissolved soon after release. The team, and director Masahiro Sakurai, would move on to the Super Smash Bros. series.

Mario & Luigi

Some old Nintendo franchises offer glimmers of hope to return in the future. One of them is Mario & Luigi. As a featured day one release of Game Boy Advance games for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo seems to see some value in the popular RPG series.

Debuting in 2003 for the Game Boy Advance, Mario & Luigi was an instant hit. After that, developer AlphaDream released a string of titles, each more enjoyable than the last, for the Nintendo DS and 3DS. Perhaps that’s one reason the series hasn’t seen the light of day outside of re-releases. Nintendo’s abandoned the traditional handheld market and is all-in on Nintendo Switch.

Still, we’re dreaming of its return. There’s room for more Nintendo-produced RPG franchises on the Switch.

Golden Sun

Speaking of Nintendo RPGs, the Golden Sun series saw success on the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS from 2001 through 2010. Yet, for over a decade, the series has been dormant. According to a recent Nintendo Direct, we’ll be able to play the original Golden Sun soon. As for a new game in the series, though? Don’t get your hopes up.

One possible reason lies with the developer Camelot Software Planning. The studio has been shifted to work on games in the Mario Sports series for the past decade.

If you don’t have access to a PC or a console, or you’re just looking for games to play on the go, this list compiles some of the best-paid mobile games. If you’re looking for games with high-quality gameplay and no ads, these games are the way to go.

For this list, we haven’t included Netflix’s game subscription service. However, that is also a great way to get games for your phone, and they have some high-quality games to choose from.

Slay the Spire

No matter what platform you’re on, Slay the Spire is such a great timesink. Whether it’s your first time playing it or your hundredth time, there is still so much to do in the game. Unlocking new characters, finding what build works for you, or getting to the top of the Spire, there is plenty to do!

Whether you’re on Android or iOS, Slay the Spire is the perfect game to take on the go. You can put five minutes into it or do a whole run! The save system allows you to pick it up and put it down whenever you like.

Dead Cells

If you’re looking for a game that has a bit of a higher intensity, Dead Cells is it. This game is a stunning metroidvania platformer game with fast-paced combat, which may be a little difficult to play if you’re using the screen to play on. However, with a controller attachment, this game can be lots of fun. 

While this game is less likely to be one you can pick up during a five-minute break at work, it can be great for a bus journey or something of the sort. Additionally, it has a fantastic soundtrack and some great DLC.

Monument Valley

Monument Valley is the epitome of relaxing gameplay. Solving puzzles with trippy physics makes for a fun experience, but one that won’t stress you out beyond belief. If you’re looking for a game to take your mind off of things and to give you a breather from stress, Monument Valley is perfect for that.

Luckily, you don’t need fancy hardware to play it; you just have to tap, slide, and rotate structures to complete levels. If you enjoy the first one, there is a second Monument Valley that you can play too!

The Room

If you’ve always wanted to be a detective, solve puzzles, and complete escape rooms, The Room is the perfect game for you. Completing puzzles is the key to escaping the room, and some of the puzzles are simply ingenious. 

This game is perfect to pick up and play whenever you like, as there’s always a little time to solve a puzzle or two. There are plenty of games in The Room franchise, so make sure to give them a go if you enjoyed the first one.

Trivia Crack Premium

Trivia can be a great time waster, and if you’re looking to make some time pass quickly, Trivia Crack Premium is one of the best-paid mobile games for it. While the base game is completely free, it is riddled with ads, which can be a bit annoying.

However, this version is ad-free and lets you play as much as you want! There are plenty of different categories to get stuck into. Whether you like art, sport, or general knowledge, there’s something for everyone.

Mini Metro

Mini Metro is the perfect little puzzle game. It’s great for those who are fans of organisation and travel. You have to build a tube map for a city that is slowly expanding while making it as stress-free as possible. 

If you want to experiment with real-life subway maps, that is also an option for you.

Hitman: Sniper

There are plenty of fantastic Hitman games out there, with most of them being on console or PC. However, Hitman: Sniper is exclusive to mobile and has some really fun missions to play. While the game can be quite challenging, that can be a lot of fun if that is what you’re looking for.

There is plenty of replayability with Hitman: Sniper, too. You can work to see how high you can get your score to be!

Geometry Dash

If you like rhythm games, you’ll love the pop world of Geometry Dash. The music is catchy and exciting and adds to the game’s tension. Timing is everything in the world of Geometry Dash.

Depending on how good you are, you may even find yourself excelling at extremely difficult levels, where there are teleporters, spikes on the ceiling, and much, much more.

Due to the type of game it is, it means it’s incredibly easy to hop in and out of. Whether you want to try one level or complete five, there’s something for everyone.

Crypt of the Necrodancer

Crypt of the NecroDancer is another rhythm game, but this one requires some tactics to succeed. It combines the difficulty of a roguelike with the fun musical elements of a rhythm game to make a unique experience that is a lot of fun regardless of what platform you’re on.

If you find you want to add something special to the game, you can add your own music, or get any of the DLC to give you some variety.

Monster Hunter Stories

Monster Hunter is a truly loved franchise, and Monster Hunter Stories is an adorable game that takes the franchise in a drastically different direction from the main games in the franchise. Instead, you get to play with a turn-based battle system, hatch eggs, and befriend the creatures that you come across.

Instead of playing out like the original Monster Hunter games, this feels much more like a Pocket Monster game and can be a lot of fun to play on the go!

Thumper: Pocket Edition

Thumper is another fantastic rhythm game and is definitely one of the more intense games. I’ve sunk a few hours into this game and am still learning how to play! Getting to explore a dystopian space as a space beetle while trying not to lose a shield can be difficult. 

However, getting to slay the monsters at the end of it makes up for the frustration the game can bring. Thumper is the perfect game to take on your pocket-sized device and is one of the best-paid mobile games out there.

The Banner Saga

The Banner Saga is a delightful tactical RPG that has a mix of gorgeous art and aesthetically dated gameplay that makes you feel like you’re playing a game from the 90s. In this 2D game, you get to play as Vikings, where your choices matter, and you have to make allies, fight for your life against enemies, and weed out the bad from the good.

Compared to a lot of games on this list, this is one of the more in-depth games that you can get for mobile, and I really recommend it if you’re looking for something with a bit of oomph. 

Final Fantasy VIII

Final Fantasy is a timeless franchise, and now Square Enix has brought some of the best ones to mobile. You can now get stuck into Final Fantasy VIII with remastered graphics and that same beautiful storyline. Because of the turn-based combat and the hefty story, you are certainly getting bang for your buck with this one.

You can play for as little or as long as you want, and it’ll still take you a decent amount of time to complete this game.

Minecraft

Minecraft is loved by people of all ages, and it is one of the most widely available games due to the amount of platforms you can play it on. If you’ve been looking for a high-quality paid mobile game, Minecraft is the way to go. 

Whether you’re someone who likes to play creatively or explore the world in survival, there are hours and hours of fun to be had in Minecraft.

Five Nights at Freddy’s

If you’re looking for a horror experience on your portable device, Five Nights at Freddy’s is the way to go. Whether you dive into the first one for that classic experience or you want to delve into one of the later games, FNAF has plenty on offer. 

Additionally, if you complete the base game and are looking for a bit more to add, there is also an Ultimate Custom Night creator, which lets you add modifiers for a difficulty of your choosing.

Monopoly

Who doesn’t love Monopoly? If you want a board game-style game on your mobile, the paid mobile game of Monopoly is the way to go. Luckily, playing it on your phone doesn’t risk jeopardizing relationships with friends and family.

Instead, you can risk it all by playing against AI or people online. The choice is up to you!

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

If you’re looking for that shot of nostalgia, GTA: San Andreas is the perfect game to get on mobile. Whether you use a controller attachment or just the touch screen, the game is perfectly playable regardless.

Get to explore the streets of San Andreas, whip up some crime, and complete the list of missions for that sweet, sweet adrenaline rush.

Papers, Please

If you’ve been wanting a dystopian experience and real life isn’t cutting it, Papers, Please is the perfect game for just that. Working as border control, you have to make sure your work is clear and concise to make sure that you can heat your home and feed your family.

However, it isn’t as simple as that, and you’ll have to make some tough decisions. Papers, Please works so well on mobile and is easily one of the best paid mobile games out there.

Terraria

Much like Minecraft, Terraria is a survival and crafting game. However, it plays out as a side scroller. As you’ll be playing it on mobile, it feels perfect that this would be on a small screen. 

Whether you like to fight off enemies and get legendary weapons or you like to build complex structures, there’s something for everyone. 

Crashlands

Crashlands is a super fun game if you enjoy survival games where you have to fight off unique-looking monsters. Despite the style being somewhat of a retro feel, it works perfectly for mobile. It’s incredibly colorful and the gameplay is so much fun.

The more time you sink into the game, the more chaotic it gets. It’s a perfect game if you just want that little burst of adrenaline to get you through the day.

Wingspan

If you’ve wanted to play a card game on your mobile but the free ones aren’t grabbing you, Wingspan is the perfect paid mobile game for this. This game is incredibly relaxing and stress-free and takes you on a strategic journey.

You also get to learn about adorable birds along the way. What’s not to love?

Bad North

Bad North is a fantastic RTS game with an absolutely breathtaking art style. It is beautifully minimalist, but the gameplay is thorough and in-depth as you have to protect your island from Viking invaders. 

Despite it looking awfully relaxing, it can get pretty stressful if things start to go awry. Bad North will keep you on your toes, that’s for sure.

Death Road to Canada

Death Road to Canada is a beautifully intense roguelike that takes place during a zombie apocalypse. You have to try to look after a group of survivors and help them flee to Florida while avoiding the zombie invasion. 

Of course, the likelihood is that you won’t win on your first attempt. It’s not impossible, but the more you die and reset, the more progress you’ll make overall.

Stardew Valley

It’s not a surprise that Stardew Valley is ranked the best-paid mobile game of all. It spans across a multitude of platforms, and it doesn’t matter which one you play it on, as you’ll have a relaxing and fun experience regardless. Whether you like to complete the quests, go fishing, or complete the museum, Stardew Valley is chock full of stuff to do.

Not only that, but the game has received a ton of updates that have added new content, so make sure to keep an eye out for them.

That concludes our list of the best paid mobile games you can get. There are plenty more, but this list covers something for everyone across expansive genres. 

What is your favorite paid mobile game?

Roguelites and Roguelikes are a very popular genre of games these days, with some amazing titles. If you’re looking to get stuck into Roguelikes, here are 30 of the best Roguelikes and Roguelites you can get your hands on today.

For those unsure of this genre, it is essentially a dungeon crawler mechanic, turn-based gameplay, and the main thing: Your character dies. Permanently. The difference between a Roguelike and a Roguelite is that in a Roguelike if you die, you start again with nothing. In a Roguelite, if you die, you start again but get to keep something from the previous run to give you a boost.

Dead Cells

Metroidvania-inspired Dead Cells is a beautiful rogue-lite. Dead Cells is one of the harder roguelites out there, as there are no checkpoints in the constantly changing castle you explore. Instead, you just have to die over and over to learn how to proceed through the castle. If you’re a fan of soulslike combat, this game excels in creating great combat options similar to Dark Souls. Not only are there regular free content updates, but there are some fantastic DLC options, too!

Platforms: PC, Xbox One, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5

Darkest Dungeon

A gothic roguelike with turn-based combat, Darkest Dungeon is a hauntingly beautiful but difficult roguelike. Not only do you have to deal with challenging combat, which can test your brain, but you also have to ensure that you are combating your team’s psychological stresses. Should they get to breaking point, your team will suffer as a whole. 

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One

Slay the Spire

Marrying deck-building elements with roguelike mechanics, Slay the Spire is a fun timesink. With four different characters to play, multiple ways to make a deck, and relics to help you, can you Slay the Spire? Just when you think you’ve completed it, even more challenges are awaiting you.

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, Android

Risk of Rain 2

Risk of Rain 2 allows you to play on your own or with friends. With a multitude of characters to choose from, all with their own pros and cons, escape an alien planet full of frenzied creatures out to get you. Try to get your hands on as much loot as possible to help (or hinder) your playthrough, fight bosses, and engage in chaotic combat.

Platforms: Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

The Binding of Isaac: Repentance

The Binding of Isaac has hours of replayability that require you to die repeatedly to learn and unlock more items as you go. There are now three major DLCs for the game, which add achievements galore, items, and new endings. Will you be able to survive in this gory hellscape with just your tears to fend off enemies?

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Against the Storm

Against the Storm is one of the more unique roguelikes on this list. You are the Queen’s Viceroy and have to work to build cities up. Leading humans, lizards and beavers, foxes, and harpies to safety and help them reclaim the expansive wilderness around them. Of course, there are consequences to your actions along the way, including debuffs, traits, and rewards if quests are completed correctly.

Platforms: Windows

Don’t Starve

Don’t Starve has two different versions. One where you play it on your own, and Don’t Starve Together, where you can play with friends. The game aims to survive as long as possible while maintaining your hunger, health, and sanity. Not only this, but you must try and learn as many scientific experiments and magic as possible in a world full of many dangers.

Platforms: PC, iOS, Android, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Rogue Legacy

Playing as a character based on genealogy, where each character you play will have some sort of disability. Whether it be vertigo, IBS, or colorblindness, it makes things chaotic. However, that doesn’t always hinder you; you can come out on top. 

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Endless Dungeon

Endless Dungeon is exactly what it says in the name: exploring an endless dungeon and defeating constant waves of enemies with your allies to protect your crystal. Compared to other games, the roguelike elements are somewhat based on the currency you earn throughout your experience, allowing you to purchase items to help you in your next run.

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Nintendo Switch

Neon Abyss

Neon Abyss is a pretty chaotic roguelite mixed with action-platformer elements. Exploring the abyss, you get to run ‘n’ gun your way through with a multitude of item synergies and combinations. Featuring a unique evolution system, it means that every run you have in Neon Abyss changes the experience. Compared to other roguelikes, there are fun mini-games and many characters to experiment with, leading to hours of endless fun and challenge.

Platforms: Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Moonlighter

Getting to play as a shopkeeper, you go on an adventure to become a hero. Moonlighter has a beautiful art style as you go through the world, complete quests, talk with NPCs, and learn more about the protagonist, Will. Not only do you have Will, but you have a multitude of companions to keep you company, as well as gear to make your journey through Moonlighter easier. 

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android

World of Horror

Inspired by H.P Lovecraft and Junji Ito, World of Horror is far from the typical roguelike. It marries survival horror, visual novel, and point-and-click elements all together. The choices you make are detrimental and will have long-lasting effects. Choose carefully in this horrific world of cosmic horror. 

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

Noita

In a procedurally generated world, you have to fight your way through using a variety of spells that you learn along the way. Noita is a great action roguelite with chaotic gameplay and a huge range of spells, allowing you to burn and freeze enemies and terrain to get through the terrain. 

Platforms: Windows

Cult of the Lamb

To become a cult leader, you must lead your own prophet group. While working to keep them happy (or unhappy), you must choose traits and buildings for your woodland cult. Not only this but there are unexplored regions for you to fight your way through, leading to some difficult bosses and fantastic rewards. The base game is stuffed full of content. However, if that isn’t enough for you, there are now multiple DLCs and free updates that add even more to the game!

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S

Balatro

Balatro is probably one of the most unique roguelikes on this list. Playing a game of Poker where you make illegal hands, find game-changing cards, and create ridiculous combos to try and win. Balatro is one of the most bizarre roguelikes on this list. The best part is you don’t even have to play Poker or know-how, as it’s far removed from what Poker truly is.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S

Invisible, Inc.

Controlling the agents of Invisible, you have to make your way into dangerous corporations and buildings. Utilizing stealth and teamwork, you have a multitude of high-stakes missions to complete. This roguelike utilizes turn-based combat, allowing you to carefully consider your moves.

Platforms: PC, iOS, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

30XX

The sequel to 20xx, this game is similar to Mega Man and plays out as a roguelite action-platformer. You can shoot and jump through the levels by yourself or play with a friend to help you out. 30xx requires some difficult and precise platforming mixed with chaotic combat against Guardians. You can uncover some really fun powers that can make or break your run in 30xx. 

Platforms: Windows

Vampire Survivors

In a pixellated action-roguelike, you get to use fun passives and actives to defeat enemies and try to survive as long as possible. By unlocking new relics and weapons, you can get some really fun and chaotic gameplay, with nonstop effects all over your screen. If the base game isn’t enough for you, there are now three DLCs for you to add!

Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android

Talented

Talented is a small roguelite where you fight monsters coming at you from four directions. Luckily, you don’t have to worry about moving to dodge, as you just stand on the spot while the conveyor belt of enemies approaches. There are lots of talents you can choose from, which include passive and active abilities you can use to become stronger. 

This game has a tonne of replayability and is a fantastic timesink. Talented is still in early access, so there is a lot of new content to come for this game.

Platforms: PC

Into the Breach

If you’re a fan of mechs, this is the game for you. Controlling a variety of powerful futuristic mechs, you have to stop the alien threat from taking over the planet. Each attempt to save the planet offers something new, as it’s randomly generated every single time. Into the Breach features a turn-based strategy, allowing you to have precise actions.

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android

Spelunky 2

Spelunking on the moon, you have to navigate through difficult platforming challenges and traps set out to kill you. Your mission is to search for treasure and your family. Like most roguelikes, should you die, it is a perma death. There is so much more to explore, with animals you can tame and a base camp full of friends and family.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox X/S

FTL: Faster Than Light

Crafting your own spaceship, you have to man it and fight for survival against rogue spaceships that are trying to destroy yours. FTL includes resource management, as you need to ensure that your spaceship has power in the correct places to fight back against enemies. 

Platforms: PC, iPad

Monster Train

Another deck-builder roguelike, this game takes place on a train with a one-way ticket to Hell. You have to make tactical choices to ensure your safety as you compete against other players. Monster Train offers hours of replayability as you can build a variety of decks as you fight for survival.

Platforms: Windows, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS

Streets of Rogue

Streets of Rogue is a fabulous roguelike with a lot of chaotic elements. You can sneak your way to victory or hack and slash a bloody path. The choice is yours entirely. You can also interact with NPCs and complete quests along the way.

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android

Crypt of the Necrodancer

Crypt of the NecroDancer is one of the most unique roguelikes on this list. What makes it stand out from the crowd is that it is a rhythm roguelike. Every movement you do is in time with a beat. Whether it’s songs already in the game or you want to upload your own MP3 files to dance to, Crypt of the NecroDancer is a fantastic time. Not only that, but it has some great DLCs available if you want more.

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS

Returnal

If you enjoy bullet hells, you’ll want to give Returnal a go. In this co-op game that takes place in space, you play as Selene, where you have to roam a planet full of hazards and take on challenges that may very well end your life. Every time you die, the cycle begins anew, and the planet you were on experiences new changes, adapting how you play the game.

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows

Curse of the Dead Gods

Curse of the Dead Gods has a unique art style similar to that of Darkest Dungeon. Making your way through a labyrinth full to the brim with traps and deadly enemies, you are looking for treasure, divine powers, and eternal life.

Fluid combat and intense platforming help make this a game to remember. If you’re a fan of Tomb Raider, Curse of the Dead Gods is a great roguelike to try out.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One

Enter the Gungeon

Enter the Gungeon is a bullet-hell meets roguelike. Playing as a band of misfits, it is up to you to make your way through a sprawling dungeon, shooting and looting your way to victory. There are many demanding boss fights to take on, and the reward for completing them is great. Can you make it to the end to get the ultimate weapon?

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Dicey Dungeons

Dicey Dungeons has an interesting premise where you play giant dice and explore dungeons while trying to defy Lady Luck. It’s completely based on dice mechanics, rolling the dice to either move or attack and getting special effects. Since its release, it has a brand new DLC for free.

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Android, iOS, PlayStation 5

Hades

If you’re a fan of Greek mythology, Hades is the perfect roguelike for you. Playing as Hades’ son, Zagreus, you must try and escape hell’s depths. Along the way, you can get boons from the other Gods and gain favor with them. Or if you’re brave enough, you can betray them.

The art style is beautiful, coupled with a fantastic soundtrack and intense combat.

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, iOS

That concludes our list of Roguelikes and Roguelites that you should try. Some here are significantly more challenging than others, but progressing through the games can be incredibly rewarding.

What is your favorite Roguelike?

There are some timeless games that, no matter how old they get, always withstand the test of time. Whether they released for the Nintendo 64, the original PlayStation, or even PC, some games are just truly timeless.

If you want to see what games we’ve put on the list as the most timeless, keep reading below!

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

No matter your platform, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a stunning game with an intense but lovable backstory. Whether you’re in it for the story of Geralt or you’re drawn in by Yennefer, the game has something for everyone.

Despite being nine years old, it has received patches very recently, which have helped bolster the positive reputation of The Witcher 3. No matter how old this game is, it will always remain timeless.

Minecraft

Minecraft will always be one of the most classic world-building games. It’s been around for a long time and has seen many updates to keep it fresh and full of content. It has been added to many platforms over the years, including PlayStation 3, mobile, and much more.

Whether you like to add mods to spice up your games or you prefer to play vanilla, there is something for everyone to do in Minecraft. It doesn’t matter how old Minecraft gets; it’ll always be one of the most timeless and favorite games.

Portal 2

Portal 2 is one of the most timeless physics-based puzzle games you can find. Created by Valve, it remains a part of one of the most loved franchises, and it would be fantastic to see another iteration added to the Portal franchise.

While Portal is fantastic, Portal 2 has even more sarcasm and funny quips from our favorite robot, GLaDOS. Whether you play it in single-player or team up with a friend, there are plenty of head-scratching puzzles to navigate.

World of Warcraft

Whether you choose to play Classic WoW or retail, there’s something for everyone across both iterations of the game. Retail World of Warcraft keeps the game fresh with constant new updates, while Vanilla WoW lets you relive the nostalgia from your childhood or adolescence. 

When it comes to MMOs, World of Warcraft is one of the most timeless games and still has plenty of life in it.

Sims 2

It’s highly debated in The Sims community which Sims game is better, but the large consensus is that Sims 2 is the best of them. Not only did it have the most in-depth gameplay, but it had some amazing cutscenes, and it had stories! There was always drama happening with Don Lothario, a feature that is deeply missed by The Sims 4 community.

The Sims 2 will always be one of the most timeless games in the franchise despite it being so difficult to obtain today. It’s also quite difficult to get it to run on your PC, even if you have the necessary mods to assist.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is one of the most iconic games of all time. Despite how janky and bug-ridden it is, players find a way to look past it and enjoy the game for what it is. It’s a highly in-depth fantasy world with fun combat and lovable NPCs. Who could forget the dragons?

Hundreds of hours can easily be sunken into Skyrim, making it one of the most timeless games out there. Luckily, it’s widely available on pretty much every platform, thanks to Todd Howard rereleasing it as much as humanly possible.

Super Mario Bros.

While technically, I am talking about the first iteration of this franchise, Super Mario Bros. remains timeless. Games are constantly being added to the franchise, breathing new life into it and introducing new players to the series. 

Whether you like the challenge of the first game or prefer the simpler but more vibrant worlds of games like Super Mario Bros. Wonder or Super Mario RPG, there’s something for everyone in this franchise.

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is one of the older titles on our list of timeless games, released in 1997. Despite that, it is still one of the most loved games today, with the franchise being bigger and better than ever.

When it comes to challenging but rewarding Metroidvanias, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is one of the peak games out there. It’s so widely available even today, so why not check it out and see if you fall in love with Alucard?

The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker

There have been many iterations in The Legend of Zelda franchise, all with their unique selling points and aesthetics. However, Wind Waker is definitely at the top regarding unique Zelda games. The art style had never been used before in the franchise, making the game feel more friendly to a younger audience.

While it’s relatively hard to obtain today, The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker never gets old and will always be one of the most timeless Zelda games.

Journey

Journey is such a stunning game. It doesn’t matter how old it gets; the game is gorgeous and relaxing. Whether you play the game alone or with a friend, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Gliding across sand dunes and solving puzzles as you go is one of the best calming experiences in gaming. Luckily, the puzzles aren’t challenging if you’re not one for puzzlers. 

Tetris

Tetris truly is one of the most timeless games that you can play. Even today, people of all ages are playing Tetris. Whether it’s a remixed version of the game on your mobile, Tetris 99 on your Nintendo Switch, or the original game, there’s a version for everyone. It’s simple and mindless fun, although it can get quite intense. 

When it comes to classic arcade games, Tetris is at the top of the list. 

Bioshock

Even though the graphics are a bit dated, the gameplay and story prevail and still make for an epic experience. Whether you’re playing the first game or the second, both have phenomenal stories with a great soundtrack to accompany them. 

Whether you’re playing it for the first time or the hundredth time, the plot twists in BioShock will never fail to shock you and give you chills. It’s one of the best dystopian FPS games to exist.

Celeste

One of the most beautiful indie games, Celeste will always be timeless. Even if it’s ten or 20 years from now, Celeste is such an unforgettable game. The soundtrack is stunning, and the story is highly relatable.

You get to play as Madeline, and you have to work to climb Celeste, the mountain. It’s a long and arduous journey with lots of difficult jumps and tricks to reach the top of the mountain. It’ll probably be one of the most challenging games you’ll play, but also one of the best.

Okami

While Okami has been out for quite a while, it’s still such a beautiful game. Getting to explore Japanese folklore and mythology through a game can make it more digestible than if you were to read about it. While the game isn’t fully accurate in folklore, it tells you a lot about what you need to know.

With such a unique art style and story, Okami will always be one of the most timeless games released. Unsurprisingly, it’s been released on multiple generations of consoles since its initial release on the PlayStation 2.

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

While Grand Theft Auto V most likely takes precedence for being so replayable, San Andreas feels the most timeless. Honestly, it’s a tough decision between any PS2-era GTA games. 

However, we’re giving the edge here to San Andreas, thanks to its memorable characters, impressive story, and deep gameplay. Even on subsequent playthroughs, it has such a classic and nostalgic feel that it feels so much nicer to play than GTA V.

Baldur’s Gate 3

While Baldur’s Gate 3 only came out in the past year, it has been in early access for even longer than that. Even while in early access, the game had plenty of content to play through. With how much content you get in Baldur’s Gate 3 and the immense amount of choices you can make, it’s easy to say that this game will be timeless.

It doesn’t matter how old it gets; this game will always be one of the best RPGs. There are hundreds of hours of content in BG3, and it has great replayability. 

DOOM

While I could say this about the original DOOM games, this does apply to the newer iterations in the franchise. The old DOOM games are equally timeless, but the 2016 game is the way to go if you want an updated feel.

Not only is it accompanied by a great soundtrack, but it’s a great, chaotic game to get stuck into. Even if you aren’t a fan of shooters, DOOM is the perfect way to blow off steam.

Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen

With the release of Dragon’s Dogma 2, I think it’s fair that we give some love back to Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen. Although the graphics are a little dated, this game has so much fun waiting for you. 

Whether it’s messing around with the janky AI or completing the phenomenal story, there’s so much to do in this open world. It’s widely available on various platforms and is one of the most timeless open-world RPGs out there.

Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest is one of the most beautiful indie games ever released. It’s not all about the gorgeous visuals, either. The music, the level design, and the story are all just gorgeous, and this game will always be timeless.

It’s such a fun but intense platformer with puzzle elements. The story may break your heart, but it’ll be worth it for the fun you’ll have playing the game. Luckily, once you complete this game, you have Ori and the Will of the Wisps to follow up with!

Dark Souls 3

Some may consider Dark Souls timeless, but I think that merit goes to Dark Souls 3. Even years later, the graphics are stunning, and the boss fights are intense and thrilling. It has plenty of replayability and value for money. There’s so much to do, even if you play just the base game. It could take you hours and hours to complete.

However, the DLC is where it gets really good and is the best part of the game. Combining the deep and rich lore with the gameplay, Dark Souls 3 is simply timeless.

Civilization 5

There have been many Civilization games over the years, but none are as groundbreaking as Civilization 5. Not only did it introduce the hexagonal tiles, but it also introduced so many other key features that made the game more accessible for those who prefer to be a pacifist. 

It added new wonders to build, research agreements, and more, allowing for science and culture victories to be a viable option. You can lose so many hours in this game and still be nowhere near winning. It’s a great timesink.

Crash Bandicoot: Warped

The first two Crash Bandicoot games were iconic and had elements that made them timeless. However, Crash Bandicoot: Warped took everything from the first two games, improved on it, and gave players more content to dive into.

The bosses were better, and Crash even got special perks for completing a world! Not only that but there was a whole other secret world to dive into. This game never gets old, no matter how many times you replay it.

Spyro: Year of the Dragon

Spyro 1 and 2 were fantastic, but there’s just something so iconic and fun about Spyro: Year of the Dragon. Whether you play it in the Reignited Trilogy or the original, they still hold up today. 

Nothing beats chasing the egg thieves and hearing their taunts as they run away from you. Both Spyro and Crash are some of the most timeless franchises in gaming.

Croc: Legend of the Gobbos

This may be a bit of a controversial one, as there are still plenty of people who don’t know what Croc is. However, it’s such a nostalgic platformer where you get to play as a cute little croc! You have to rescue the Gobbos while tail-swiping enemies and solving puzzles.

Released for the PlayStation, the graphics are obviously dated. However, that doesn’t stop it from giving you hours of fun and playtime. 

Tomb Raider (1996)

It’s a no-brainer that the original Tomb Raider game is timeless. It’s a game many people have grown up with and now enjoy, thanks to the accessible remastered version. 

The soundtrack never gets old, and St Francis’ Folly is some of the best level design ever seen in a game. Tomb Raider will always be timeless and one of the best franchises in gaming.

Plenty of other games are timeless, but these are the timeless games that immediately spring to mind. These games leave a long-lasting effect on the brain (and sometimes the heart). If you’re yet to play some of these games, don’t delay. You’re missing out!

The Fire Emblem games are a storied part of Nintendo’s history. Debuting only in Japan in 1990, it gave the first Nintendo consoles an enjoyable fantasy RPG-strategy experience. With 2003’s Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade, the series made its debut in North America (Europe and Australia got a 2004 release). Since then, the franchise has been a mainstay on every Nintendo system.

The franchise has become one of Nintendo’s most successful. Whether it’s the recently released Fire Emblem: Three Houses or the inclusion of series characters in Super Smash Bros., there’s a lot to love to be had when it comes to Fire Emblem titles.

To honor that heritage, we’re going to go over all the Fire Emblem games ranked from worst to best. We’ll use a combination of fan and critical reception, as well as personal opinion, to form the list. You may agree, you might disagree; either way, be sure to keep the conversation going in the comments.

Editor’s note: Select titles won’t be included on the list. This is due to their lack of availability outside of Japan. We’re only going over games that have, in one way or another, released in the west.

Let’s begin!

FIRE EMBLEM: SHADOW DRAGON & THE BLADE OF LIGHT MAY BE THE WORST OF ALL FIRE EMBLEM GAMES, BUT IT ALSO STARS MARTH, SO IT HAS THAT GOING FOR IT

(Metascore: 62)

It’s the first of the Fire Emblem games, which means it’s going to be a bit rusty. Displaying all the tactical information we take for granted today is a bit hard to do on the Famicon, it turns out.

As we’d later learn from the game’s remake on Nintendo DS, the 8-bit system is the big deterrence here. There’s just not enough processing power to allow the game to reach its full potential.

We do get to follow the adventures of Marth from day one, though, and that’s good news for sure. Still, even if you’re a die-hard Fire Emblem fan, it’s best to stay away from this one.

FIRE EMBLEM: WARRIORS

(Metascore: 74)

Enjoyment of Fire Emblem: Warriors is totally dependent on if you’re a fan of Dynasty Warriors gameplay. It’s not the traditional turn-based strategy game you expect.

Characters from a select few Fire Emblem releases make up the game’s roster. Fan favorites such as Ike aren’t available to play.

With these two factors in mind, it’s easy to put Fire Emblem: Warriors towards the bottom of our list.

FIRE EMBLEM HEROES

(Metascore: 72)

While there’s no denying that Fire Emblem Heroes is a free-to-play mobile gacha game, there’s still something to enjoy for Fire Emblem fans.

This is the highest-grossing mobile game from Nintendo for a reason. Heroes balance the trappings and dangers of a gacha game by still offering something for the non-whale players out there. You don’t have to spend lots of money to have a good time.

What’s most impressive concerning Fire Emblem Heroes is that it feels like a legitimate Fire Emblem game. Unlike Super Mario Run, which feels like a mobile game with a Super Mario skin,

Heroes have the foundation you’d expect from a “traditional” release in the franchise. It’s still held back by its genre, but make no mistake: this is a fantastic mobile game and one of the better Fire Emblem games.

FIRE EMBLEM ECHOES: SHADOWS OF VALENTIA

(Metascore: 81)

A remake of 1992’s Japan-only Fire Emblem Gaiden, Shadows of Valentia is the second old-school Fire Emblem remake. However, despite being updated for modern audiences, some of the original’s “quirks” are still present.

Gaiden is seen as the “black sheep” of the Fire Emblem games and for good reason. The beloved weapon triangle “rock, paper, scissors” formula is gone, throwing combat balance of out whack. Furthermore, there are free-roam dungeons available for exploration. In reality, these sound better on paper than they do in practice.

Shadows of Valentia is the example of Nintendo trying something new rather than releasing an underbaked sequel. Things don’t always work, but you have to applaud them for trying.

And hey, it’s still a good game. In fact, for some, this is one of the best.

FIRE EMBLEM: SHADOW DRAGON

(Metascore: 81)

The first old-school Fire Emblem remake, Shadow Dragon is an update to the original Fire Emblem release. It’s also arguably the simplest out of all Fire Emblem games, but that’s to be expected.

Fire Emblem and the Nintendo DS are a match made in heaven, allowing for a lot of quality of life and accessibility features with the dual screens. Updated graphics and superior hardware help flesh out the issues of the original Famicon release.

Still, it seems as though all updates for this remaster went into visuals and gameplay. The story and characters pale in comparison to their modern contemporaries. This results in a shorter-than-expected experience that never feels fully fleshed out.

Shadow Dragon is worth playing to experience the original release, but don’t expect to want any return trips.

FIRE EMBLEM ENGAGE

Where do we begin with Fire Emblem Engage?

After the massive success of Three Houses, fans were excited to dive back into the world of Fire Emblem. They’re treated to not only one of the best looking games for Nintendo Switch but also a return to the classic foundation of Fire Emblem gameplay.

Sadly, that’s where the praise has to end. Engage doesn’t come close to delivering the narrative experience of Three Houses. Instead, it feels like a game short on features without any memorable story hooks to keep players, erm, engaged.

FIRE EMBLEM FATES

(Metascore: 88)

The most ambitious of the Fire Emblem games, Fates is technically three separate releases: Birthright, Conquest, and Revelation. Each version offered something different, with the goal being to play them all for the full experience.

By comparison, Birthright is a far easier and more accessible game compared to the more difficult Conquest title. Given that the main difference between the two games was advertised as story differences, this led to some disappointing experiences.

Of course, with the Revelation DLC, the whole story becomes available, somewhat trivializing your choice in buying the prior games. As a result, Fates feels like more style than substance, a rarity for the franchise.

The game is still a great experience, but definitely a disappointment as a follow-up to Awakening.

FIRE EMBLEM: RADIANT DAWN

(Metascore: 78)

Radiant Dawn is Path of Radiance, but bigger. Sadly, that’s not always a good thing.

For many, the one thing that holds Radiant dawn back is the brutal difficulty. If you manage to overcome that hurdle, you’re greatly rewarded. Furthermore, your experience with Radiant Dawn is greatly improved if you played through Path of Radiance.

Radiant Dawn is one of the more controversial Fire Emblem games; you either love it or hate it. The story isn’t as memorable as other titles, and the game’s weaker maps are noticeably disappointing. However, there’s a certain charm found here that helps you look past its flaws.

If you put the work and effort in, you’ll find a lot to love with Radiant Dawn.

FIRE EMBLEM: THE BLAZING BLADE IS THE FIRST OF ALL FIRE EMBLEM GAMES TO RELEASE IN THE WEST

(Metascore: 88)

The western debut of Fire Emblem helped introduce the franchise to a whole new audience. After being introduced to the series’ characters through Super Smash Bros., we were able to experience a Fire Emblem game firsthand. The result is a title that properly balances accessibility with depth.

Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade respects the player’s time and ability. It knows when to hold your hand while also understanding when you’re ready to take the training wheels off. Its story and narrative are undoubtedly enhanced by the quality of its characters and dialogue.

Blazing Blade isn’t a game for the faint of heart. Permadeath was a bit of a shock at first to newcomers, but it also helps keep the game from becoming too trivial.

Overall, it may lack the depth or refinement compared to other games in the genre, but The Blazing Blade is still a great game.

FIRE EMBLEM: THE SACRED STONES

(Metascore: 85)

After the success of Blazing Blade, the Fire Emblem games would always see a western release. The first follow-up was also released for the Game Boy Advance: The Sacred Stones.

A lot of what made people fall in love with Blazing Blade is still here: the dangers of permadeath, well-written characters, an engaging story, and fully fleshed-out locations. So why is it ranked above Blazing Blade? Because Sacred Stones does just about everything better.

As good as the story is in Blazing Blade, it fell into some conventional narrative traps. Sacred Stones’ story is deeper, more sophisticated, and engrossing. It’s not afraid to take risks for the betterment of the game.

If the original GBA Fire Emblem got you interested in the franchise, Sacred Stones made you fall in love.

FIRE EMBLEM: PATH OF RADIANCE

(Metascore: 85)

The first fully 3D Fire Emblem game is a work of art.

Not visually (sorry, not sorry), but in terms of gameplay. If this list of Fire Emblem games ranked was solely based on the gameplay experience, the list would arguably be over here.

Path of Radiance is a top-notch RPG experience, arguably perfecting the tactical experience in terms of combat, characters, and presentation. It may not innovate the genre in many ways, but it absolutely refines and perfects it.

As amazing as the GBA Fire Emblem games are, Path of Radiance proves that the handheld hardware is just holding things back. This was the way to experience the franchise moving forward.

Literally; aside from the sequel Radiant Dawn, we didn’t get an all-new Fire Emblem game for quite some time.

FIRE EMBLEM: AWAKENING

(Metascore: 92)

Speaking of that all-new Fire Emblem game mentioned earlier, here it is!

Awakening brought the franchise back to the forefront of Nintendo’s library. It doesn’t just match the presentation and style of Path of Radiance/Radiant Dawn; it exceeds it spectacularly.

Originally thought of as the franchise’s final release, Awakening incorporates elements from other Fire Emblem games to make a “definitive experience.”

Major gameplay innovations in Awakening include the “casual mode,” which removes permadeath from the game, as well as the “pair up” system. The former was lauded as a way to give the game more widespread appeal. The latter adds another layer of depth to both protect important characters that are weaker on the battlefield while empowering your best units.

These gameplay enhancements, combined with the continued superb presentation that began from the GameCube releases, result in one of the best tactical RPGs ever made.

FIRE EMBLEM: THREE HOUSES IS A DEEP AND ADDICTING TOUR-DE-FORCE THAT TOPS OUR LIST OF FIRE EMBLEM GAMES RANKED

(Metascore: 89)

The most recent entry in the series is also the best. Fire Emblem: Three Houses contains all the best features from the franchise.

While the tactical strategy and combat continue to be deep and entertaining, it’s the characters that truly shine here. I found myself not only building relationships with them for bonuses on the battlefield but also because I’m vested in their stories. Considering the size of the game’s roster, the ability of Intelligent Systems to pull this off is incredibly impressive.

Three Houses tells a deep and engaging story, one that encourages multiple playthroughs. While it seems tedious, each session is as enjoyable as the last.

For our money, this is the best of all Fire Emblem games ranked. We can’t wait to see where the franchise goes next.

WRAPPING UP

Did we get this list right? Wrong? Somewhere in-between? Fire Emblem games have a passionate fanbase and a wide variety of opinions.

For some, the GameCube games are the best in the series, and it’s not even close. Others feel like Shadows of Valentia is the best of the Fire Emblem games.

Since the inception of gaming, there have been some truly fantastic psychological horror games. Some are even immensely popular today and stand up as some of the scariest games you could play.

If you want a game that invades your psyche and makes you uncomfortable, here are the best psychological horror games you can get stuck into.

Doki Doki Literature Club

When this game first came out, it took the world by storm. An unassuming, cute visual novel turns dark very quickly. Over time, it progressively gets even darker, with some of it invading your personal files on your PC.

It’s no wonder that Doki Doki Literature Club is one of the most frightening psychological horror games out there, and it has since been expanded to Doki Doki Literature Club Plus if you want an even more in-depth experience.

Platforms: PC

Layers of Fear

The first Layers of Fear is a trippy and haunting experience where a few of your choices can affect the ending. You learn more about the troubled painter as you traverse through the house and unlock more rooms.

There are plenty of jumpscares, but they fit perfectly with the story. The story is tragic and disturbing and makes for a great psychological horror.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

Mental health issues are rarely portrayed well in a game, especially a horror game. However, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice handles it beautifully, creating a haunting but realistic experience.

Fighting off her psychosis, she has to work towards saving her lover from Helheim while fighting off otherworldly creatures and deities along the way. The game features great puzzle-solving, fun combat, and a brilliant story.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Windows

Omori

Omori is another game that gained popularity quickly and was sensational for quite a while. While the hype has died down slightly, Omori is still a great psychological horror game to dive into.

Omori is another game that covers very sensitive topics, so be careful when diving into this game, as you may find that some of the content triggers you. The topics are handled carefully, and emphasis is provided where needed in the game.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox Series X|S

Detention

If you’re a fan of history and learning about Asia’s history in particular, Detention is a great game for that. Set in 1960s Taiwan, the game occurs during martial law, where certain books were banned. If found with the books, there were serious consequences.

This game combines popular folklore and myths from China and Taiwan, as well as some realistic but heavy-hitting topics about the repercussions of those who were found with contraband.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Android, PlayStation 4, PC

Visage

Visage may be the closest we will ever get to a game like Silent Hills P.T., A fleeting, beloved memory that could have been a fantastic game. However, Visage is brilliant and equally worth playing.

There are multiple stories within the game, each of them haunting and horrifying in their way. Be warned, there are plenty of jumpscares and puzzles to give you a false sense of security.

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Windows

Devotion

Devotion is another hard-hitting game created by the same developers who brought you Detention. However, due to hidden insults about the Chinese leader scattered throughout the game, it was subsequently removed from Steam. However, you can still purchase it from their website.

Again set in Taiwan, this game takes place in the 1980s and blurs the line between faith and intense, damaging devotion. 

Platforms: PC

Soma

If you have a fear of the ocean or being deep underwater, you may want to skip SOMA. However, if you want to test yourself, this may actually be the perfect game for you.

SOMA was created by the same team that made the Amnesia series, meaning you know this game is just going to be fantastic. The world below the ocean is hostile, and the game itself is incredibly trippy. You’re in for a wild ride with this one.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

Fran Bow

Fran Bow is a deeply unsettling point-and-click psychological horror game. It’s bound to make you uncomfortable and have your skin crawling. Please be warned this game covers some deeply triggering topics. 

The art style compliments this game, and the atmospheric sound makes the game even more haunting. Fran Bow has a deeply tragic story and will take you on one trippy adventure.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S

Little Nightmares 2

Little Nightmares is equally good, but Little Nightmares 2 has something that just makes it even more haunting and desolate. This game feels much more involved, and the story of this one is even more shocking than the story of the first. You’ll be gobsmacked by the end once you put all of the puzzle pieces together.

Additionally, the enemies in this game feel much more terrifying than in the first game, and the swell of the music during chase scenes makes everything that much scarier. 

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture

It can be debated that Everybody’s Gone To The Rapture isn’t a horror game. It depends on how far into the story you get and how you deconstruct it to analyze it. In my eyes, it’s very much a psychological horror.

This walking simulator gets into your head, makes you think, and makes you wonder about what you would do if you were in a similar situation. That being said, it’s a beautiful but heart-breaking game and a worthy experience.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Windows

Slay the Princess

Slay the Princess is one of the newer games on this list, and it makes its case strongly as to why it’s a psychological horror. It has all of my favorite elements to make one. Choices matter, multiple endings, and a story that makes you question everything you do. 

The game is quite trippy when it starts, but you soon get used to the neverending loop of the game and what it has in store for you. That said, no two endings are the same, and you never quite know what to expect from the Princess.

Platforms: PC

Crow Country

If you’re a fan of the PS1 aesthetic from survival horror games, Crow Country will be right up your alley. It combines all your favorite elements from games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill and makes a fantastically haunting psychological horror game.

This game is so well made and has some truly disturbing gameplay. It’s glorious and so reminiscent of the PS1 horror game style.

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X|S

Stories Untold

Stories Untold is a great episodic horror game, and it’s just downright creepy. It compiles four experimental mini-horror experiences and a remaster of the original episode that brought it popularity.

It has a nostalgic 1980s aesthetic and combines point-and-click with text-based gameplay, making for a surprisingly unsettling experience.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

In Sound Mind

In Sound Mind is a first-person psychological horror game with mind-bending puzzles, boss fights, and a great soundtrack created by The Living Tombstone.

You have to explore your memories, getting trapped inside your own mind. While you’re there, you’ll encounter some rather unsavory enemies and tricky puzzles. I just hope you aren’t afraid of mannequins!

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Windows, Xbox Series X|S

Outlast 2

While Outlast is a great game, something about Outlast 2 is even scarier than the first game. Perhaps it’s the fact that it takes place in multiple locations, such as a cabin and a very creepy school.

This game revolves around a cult and the evangelicals, giving the game a dark and twisty story. There are scares around every corner, and you’ll never know what to expect with Outlast 2.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Windows, Xbox One

Layers of Fear 2

While Layers of Fear is fantastic, Layers of Fear 2 never gives you a false sense of security, leaving you permanently on edge. This game is very jumpscare-heavy but is still a tremendous psychological horror nonetheless.

Set on an ocean liner; you play the role of a Hollywood actor who wants to take the lead role in a very famous director’s movie. However, everything is not what it seems and quickly goes haywire. 

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows

Fear & Hunger

Fear & Hunger has a striking art style, giving the game a gothic aesthetic. It combines elements of survival horror and dungeon crawlers to make one of the best psychological horror experiences out there.

There is some adult content in this game, so please be warned when going forward with this game, as well as some triggering topics that may be unsettling for some players.

Platforms: PC

Amnesia: The Dark Descent

Amnesia is one of the best of the best. It’s also one of the notable horror games that came out in the 2010s and gained a tremendous amount of popularity due to YouTubers like Pewdiepie and Markiplier playing it.

Just when you think you’re safe, you’re dead wrong. Next thing you know, the music is swelling, and a monster with a gaping mouth is chasing you. Or are you just going insane? 

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android, PC

The Exit 8

If you’re a fan of Spot the Difference games, The Exit 8 is the perfect game for you. You may be wondering how a Spot the Difference game could possibly be a psychological horror, but once you play it, you’ll understand fully.

There’s a false sense of security, as it looks like a reasonably normal hallway. However, things start to change and change for the worse. Will you be able to spot all of the differences without facing repercussions?

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Windows

Little Misfortune

Little Misfortune will break your heart, but it’ll also make you laugh. This game is exactly what a psychological horror should be. It worms its way into your moral compass and has you questioning every little thing you do.

Are you doing the best you can for Little Misfortune, or are you making her already difficult life even harder for her? Be warned, the guilt is strong when you play this game.

Platforms: PC, Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Mad Father

It’s one of the most classic RPGMaker horror games out there; you can’t play Mad Father if you want that pixel experience. The game is a bit of a slow burn, but once you notice things going wrong, it spirals out of control very quickly.

It’s hard to know who to trust, and you go through the game experiencing a multitude of betrayals. Using your puzzle-solving skills, you have to work to uncover the truth about your family.

Platforms: Windows, Nintendo Switch

Who’s Lila

When it comes to unique games, Who’s Lila? It is one of the best ones. While it is a point-and-click adventure game, you are in charge of controlling your character’s face. You have to manipulate their face according to emotion.

You can choose whether you’ll lie your way through and come across as innocent or let William’s true intentions and feelings come through. The choice is yours, but it is a difficult one.

Platforms: Windows

World of Horror

World of Horror is one of the best love letters to H.P. Lovecraft and Junji Ito. Combining the gory elements of Ito’s work with Lovecraft’s dark and gothic stories, World of Horror is a fantastic roguelike you can dive into.

Just when you think the game has ended, it takes you for another dive down the rabbit hole, and you find yourself making decisions you never thought you would.

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

Silent Hill 2

It’s no surprise that Silent Hill 2 is this list’s top psychological horror game. Not only does it use survival horror elements, but it is constantly lulling you into a false sense of security. Despite the dark and dingy locations you explore, there are times when you’ll feel safe, only to be ambushed by enemies.

The Silent Hill franchise is truly iconic, but Silent Hill 2 (and Silent Hill 3) are some of the absolute best of the best that you can get.

Platforms: PlayStation 2, Xbox, PC

FromSoftware is known for many games, especially their Soulsborne franchise featuring Dark Souls, Elden Ring, and more. However, they have created many games other than just the Soulslikes. There are too many games made by this company to rank them all, but here are all the ones we’ve ranked from the S+ tier to the D tier. 

Elden Ring

Elden Ring is beyond phenomenal, and it makes perfect sense why it would be at the top of this list. It is an incredibly expansive world with multiple layers and the most bosses ever seen in a FromSoft game. While there are some repeats, the main bosses are very detailed, have great lore behind them, and the fights never get old.

Elden Ring has a lot of replayability and is one of the kindest FromSoft games you can get started with. If you want to delve into the deep catalog of FromSoftware’s games, try Elden Ring.

Bloodborne

Arguably, it is one of the cooler games made by FromSoft and one of the most difficult. Bloodborne is grotesque and set in a fictional city called Yharnam. Yharnam has some wildly dark secrets and history to uncover, with vivid detail in the bosses and an unforgettable soundtrack accompanying each battle. 

While Bloodborne isn’t as accessible as some of the other Soulslikes, if you have the opportunity to play it, you really don’t want to miss out.

Dark Souls 3

Dark Souls 3 is iconic and has some great background and character designs. The lore in this game is beautiful and complex, and the boss fights are immaculate. Dark Souls 3 never gets old and has some masterful sound design and great combat. 

While Dark Souls 3 is probably the easiest out of the Souls trio, it will still challenge you in many ways.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice stands out from the crowd but also feels very authentically FromSoft. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice feels like the most challenging out of their recent catalog of games. However, the design of the game and combat mechanics are flawless, and it feels incredibly rewarding to get right. For those hoping to dodge their way to success, Sekiro doesn’t allow you to do that and forces you to rely on your parrying skills.

Armored Core

The first in the franchise, Armored Core, was seen as revolutionary for its time, with some great combat and plenty of customization options for players to make their own mechs with various weapons, Armored Core. Not only that, but there are some great boss battles that you can get stuck into and have unique challenges as you have to work to build your own unique mech and find what works for you.

Dark Souls Remastered

Dark Souls Remastered is incredibly difficult and has a lot of challenges to encounter in the game. While the game does feel dated at points, it still has some iconic boss fights that are bound to challenge you and have you on the edge of your seat! 

Some of the soundtracks for this game are memorable and will be seared into your mind, with some great armor sets and extensive lore that will have you questioning your choices and quest line completions.

Demon’s Souls

One of the harder Soulslikes, Demon’s Souls, came as the first in the series and was a spiritual successor to King’s Field. With it now being remade for PS5, players can relive the difficulty of Demon’s Souls and experience the intense and immersive world of Boletaria. 

Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon

Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is the latest game to be created by FromSoftware, and it came as a beautiful reboot to the Armored Core franchise. With intense difficulty and fun mech building, it’s the perfect challenge for those eager for more challenging boss fights and stunning graphics in a vast world. 

Armored Core 2: Another Age

For its time, Armored Core 2: Another Age was a fantastic game. With detailed and customizable mechs and some great visuals to boot, this game was incredibly enjoyable. For those who were already fans of their work, this was another excellent addition to the FromSoftware catalog.

S Tier – King’s Field II

Classified as a great RPG made for the PlayStation, it marries the genres of RPG with adventure elements as well as dungeon crawling. While the combat was fun and the dungeon crawling was immersive, the main problem lay with how slow the character you controlled was and how that could give you a heavy disadvantage in battle.

Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin

While Dark Souls II is the most unpopular out of the Soulslikes, it still has some charm despite being somewhat clunky and tacky in places. While the DLC is the saving grace of the game, there are some great aesthetics carried through the game, as well as eerie lore to push you further into the descent of some of the character’s madness.

Armored Core: Project Phantasma

Compared to the first Armored Core, this game comes as a significant improvement to the series. While it wasn’t that popular in the grand scheme of things, it is still an incredibly fun action game to play with intense combat. However, the game is significantly shorter than the other installments. It can be beaten quickly compared to the others, making it feel less valuable in the franchise. 

Armored Core: Master of Arena

Armored Core: Master of Arena expands on the Arena concept (shocker), which now blends nicely into the game as a whole, allowing players to go into nail-biting combat against other Mechs. 

While the Arena expansion is the game’s highlight, the story is lacking and feels almost underdeveloped compared to the other installments in the franchise. The controls were clunky and didn’t allow for precise enough movements. 

Spriggan: Lunar Verse

One of the more unheard-of games created by FromSoftware, Spriggan: Lunar Verse, comes as a video game adaptation of the manga Spriggan. An exciting action-adventure game that paved the way for some mechanics in Devil May Cry, Spriggan: Lunar Verse is a wonderful game that can be played single-player or two-player.

If you’re a fan of the manga or want a fun, fast-paced, action-adventure game to leap into to see how FromSoftware’s range differs, this is a great choice. 

Echo Night 2: The Lord of Nightmares

While this game was released exclusively in Japan, it has received an English fan translation since. This game comes as one of the few forays into the Survival Horror genre that FromSoftware had. Set in an old Gothic Manor House, this game has no connection to its predecessor, and its story happens on its own timeline. 

It is up to you to search through this eerie Manor house and try to find your missing girlfriend. While the game isn’t the most known on the list, it is seen as somewhat of a classic from the PS1.

Otogi: Myth of Demons

Otogi: Myth of Demons is a less heard of FromSoftware game, but it comes as an action video game where you follow the protagonist Raikoh Miyamoto, a retired executioner. This game was nominated for “Best Game Nobody Played.” This game has a lot of similarities to the soulslike games, with a lot of similar gameplay elements. 

If you’re looking for a game with a soulslike feel, give Otogi: Myth of Demons a go with some great action elements and that familiar Soulslike feeling.

Armored Core 2

Created for the PS2, Armored Core 2 is a fantastic iteration in the franchise and has that lovable combat and great mech customization that players appreciated from the previous games. While the graphics weren’t fantastic, it still had a great storyline and gameplay that came as an extra challenge that would be sure to test your patience. 

If you played Armored Core VI and want more of that mech action, dive into Armored Core 2.

Deracine

This game stands out from the crowd in the long list of titles that FromSoftware has developed. Deracine is an adventure game created for the PS4 and requires you to use VR to play the game. It tackles some complex themes and has some fairly eerie gameplay. If you have a VR, giving this game a go is incredibly worth it. While it wasn’t that well broadcasted to audiences, Deracine is stunning and creepy all at the same time.

King’s Field

King’s Field is an iconic, challenging game created by FromSoftware. Played in a first-person perspective, you can explore many layers of dungeons in this action-adventure game. Despite the obviously dated graphics, it’s still a fabulous game with intense difficulty and combat. 

Despite eventually becoming a commercial success, its downfall was the game’s slowness and unrewarding combat, despite having great RPG elements mixed in. 

Ninja Blade

An action game created for the Xbox 360 and released in 2009, Ninja Blade has a combat system similar to games like Devil May Cry. In this title, you get to explore the world as a modern-day Ninja with various weapons to experiment with.

Ninja Blade is criminally underrated. While it was ranked highly when released, it wasn’t a commercial success, unfortunately.

Another Century’s Episode Portable

Like Armored Core, Another Century’s Episode Portable is a mech action game with third-person shooter gameplay. This game combines multiple animes, as you can pilot mechs from Aura Battler Dunbine to Gundam suits. 

The mecha gameplay was a lot of fun, with great mission objectives to complete. However, a slight drawback came with the environment, as there wasn’t much variety.

Armored Core V

Armored Core V is another challenging mecha game in the franchise, created for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. However, compared to some of the other games in the series, Armored Core V falls ever so slightly short of the wondrous worlds of the others. While the game is incredible and challenging, it certainly isn’t for everyone. 

It has a great storyline and fun gameplay, but it can really test your patience as it becomes one of the more difficult ones in the franchise. 

Armored Core: Verdict Day

Armored Core: Verdict Day was created for both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 with a heavy focus on the multiplayer modes. The game aims to battle players from other factions as you try to succeed in battle and make your faction the most successful. As with the other Armored Core games, you also have the fun option of customizing your mechs as you see fit. 

Compared to the others in the series, this title doesn’t have a fantastic story and may be difficult for players who aren’t used to games like this to get used to. This game doesn’t hold your hand in the slightest and throws you into the deep end, which can be incredibly daunting. 

The Adventures of Cookie & Cream

Compared to most of the other FromSoftware games released over the years, The Adventures of Cookie & Cream is incredibly different and showcases the company’s range. An adorable action-adventure game created for the PS2 that was later ported to the Nintendo DS, you can compete against a friend or family member or play the story mode. 

This game can be pretty challenging as you have to help Cookie and Cream get through various obstacles that require the cooperation of both characters in tandem to navigate the world. 

Lost Kingdoms

A unique game that combines real-time combat with deck building, Lost Kingdoms is a card-based RPG in Argwyll, where you play as Katia, a character eager to find her father.

This game has some great deck customization options and some fun options in the two-player modes. However, the music can get grating after a while, as it’s incredibly repetitive, and the game is awfully short compared to some of the other games in FromSoftware’s catalog.

Lost Kingdoms II

A sequel to Lost Kingdoms, this game comes as an improvement to its predecessor. While some reviews saw it having more mixed opinions than the first, overall, the combat and deck options are much better in this game, and the story is stronger than the first. 

Lost Kingdoms II also builds on the first by adding new combat elements, such as magical effects from the cards and Summon minion cards. This title also comes with more replayability, as you can go back and complete levels once you have finished them the first time. 

Shadow Tower Abyss

Sharing a lot of similarities between the Souls games and King’s Field comes Shadow Tower Abyss. Played from a first-person perspective, you navigate through multiple floors of dungeons and try to survive difficult combat against hordes of enemies.

Shadow Tower Abyss has a lot of replayability, with up to 500 different weapons to experiment with and a multitude of armor sets to collect.

Otogi 2: Immortal Warriors

With some fantastic voice acting to accompany the intense combat in Otogi 2: Immortal Warriors, this game is quite underrated when it comes to Xbox games. 

Despite having fun gameplay where you play as an Undead Warrior from Japan, this game didn’t hit the markets quite right and never became a commercial success, as people weren’t that interested.

Metal Wolf Chaos

Another Xbox game created by FromSoftware, this title also has you utilizing mechs to fight back against the military. There are over 100 weapons to choose from, allowing for more customization. 

As a game, the story is wild and has a lot of chaos to go with it in the combat. It’s a lot of fun and mocks Patriotism with absurd humor. 

Armored Core Nexus

Compared to the other Armored Core games in the series, Armored Core Nexus doesn’t hit quite as well as others. While there is the option to engage in LAN multiplayer, combat was somewhat difficult as you didn’t have precise movements, and the targeting was off. 

The one major plus for this game was the ease and accessibility of the customization for the mechs.

Armored Core: Formula Front

Armored Core: Formula Front is another game in the franchise and came as a launch title for the PSP. For this game, instead of piloting the mechs, you were building them as you assumed the role of the Architect. However, when the game was re-released for North America, it was modified to have the option to pilot your own mechs eventually.

This game allowed for a lot of variety and different ways to create your mechs, with over 400 parts to choose from! It really allowed players’ creative energy to flow. However, trying to control the mechs was found to be ridiculously difficult, more so than usual.

Yoshitsune EiyūDen: The Story of Hero Yoshitsune

Yoshitsune EiyūDen is a hack-and-slash game created for the PlayStation 2 based on the legendary samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune. There are many different ways to play this game, as it was later re-released with new modes, such as a two-player mode. For those who enjoy some friendly competition, that is also available in this game, and you can battle it out against friends (or foes). 

Chromehounds

Developed by FromSoftware, Chromehounds is another mech simulator game. This game revolved heavily around being played on online servers on Xbox 360, with an online campaign available where players would wage war on each other and try to come out victorious. 

While the online gameplay was the highlight of the game, there were also some fantastic customization options. That said, the game didn’t have much substance and fell a little flat overall. 

Armored Core 4

Yet another mech-combat game, Armored Core 4 rebooted the franchise and gave it a new lease of life for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Compared to other entries in the franchise, this game is quite accessible with its combat, and the controls are significantly more streamlined than in the past. 

Not only that, but the game also had a fantastic multiplayer option where players could play with up to seven other players in a multitude of deathmatch modes. 

That being said, some players found that the game still had excessive complexity and felt that the missions could get repetitive alongside too many features to consider when playing through the game.

Armored Core 3

Created in 2002, Armored Core 3 serves as the sixth mainline entry in the series. This time, the game occurs in the same setting as the previous Armored Core games on PlayStation in a post-apocalyptic world. Not much has changed in this game, and it has a lot of the same controls and customizations as the previous games. 

The Arena game mode returns after being removed in Armored Core: Another Age. This title was released on PSP but did not perform nearly as well as on PS2; it felt much clunkier, and the design seemed boring.

Eternal Ring

Eternal Ring was a launch title for the PS2 and had some great graphics and fun ring creation systems throughout the game. That being said, it didn’t have the best gameplay, and some parts felt rushed. You get to play as a budding magician called Cain Morgan, and you investigate the island of No Return to seek out the artifact, the Eternal Ring. 

The ring creation system plays a huge part in this title and can be utilized to create different types of rings to boost your attacks and various other attributes, depending on your desired build.

Evergrace

While this game did have some charm, as the characters had a paper doll-like design, overall, the game was lacking. An action-adventure title created for the PS2, it was quite janky in places, and the combat scenes would often have a lot of lag.

On top of that, the combat wasn’t as exciting as some of the other combat styles in FromSoftware’s catalog, which caused this game to fall flat due to uninspiring gameplay.

Echo Night

While Echo Night is a trilogy of games developed by FromSoftware, only the first game in the series is readily available. Serving as inspiration for Deracine much later down the line, Echo Night is considered ahead of its time with the themes conveyed in this title, as well as unique environments, gameplay, and interesting use of pacing throughout. 

If you like the idea of being a protagonist who gets to interact with ghosts throughout their journey, give Echo Night a go.

Forever Kingdom

Known as the prequel to Evergrace and also named Evergrace II in Japan, this game features a lot of unique mechanics and pushes the boat out. Not only does it use real-time combat, but it also features special actions located by utilizing certain equipment found throughout Palmira. Instead of using a standard level-up system, you instead gain power by upgrading your gear. 

Silent Line: Armored Core

Silent Line: Armored Core is a direct sequel to the third Armored Core, allowing you to utilize AI companions throughout the game. However, this game doesn’t feel like an improvement from the third entry in the franchise, and the gameplay can become incredibly repetitive.

Echo Night: Beyond

Another foray into survival horror comes in the PS2 game Echo Night: Beyond. With quite an interesting premise in the story, this game is bizarre but has a lot of fun gameplay. It can be a haunting and creepy game as you fight for survival in this first-person exploration.

King’s Field III

King’s Field III was a mammoth undertaking, gave players a lot of replayability, and served as a great timesink. That being said, your character still moves slowly, and it makes combat difficult as a result. On top of that, some of the gameplay felt very similar and tedious. Because of that, it was widely regarded as having mixed or average reviews because of how unbalanced the combat continued to be in King’s Field III, with no vast improvements from its predecessor. 

Shadow Tower

Similar to King’s Field (more on that later), Shadow Tower is another dungeon crawler. However, it also follows the similar flaws of King’s Field, as it has a lot of mechanical similarities. It is much darker than King’s Field and has a much darker tone overall to the game, with dingy backgrounds and a gloomy soundtrack to accompany it.