BAFTA Reveals 'Most Influential Video Game' - A Surprising Choice

BAFTA — the UK's independent arts charity dedicated to celebrating excellence in film, games, and television — has just unveiled a surprising choice for the most influential video game of all time. While many expected classics like Grand Theft Auto, Tetris, World of Warcraft, Minecraft, Doom, and Half-Life 2 to dominate the list, it was ultimately Shenmue that claimed the top spot based on public voting.

Released in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, Shenmue is an action-adventure title following Ryo Hazuki as he embarks on a deeply personal journey to avenge his father’s murder. BAFTA praised the game for its richly detailed open-world setting, which authentically captures life in Yokosuka during the 1980s.

The “pioneering first-person shooter” *Doom* came in second place, while the iconic 1985 release Super Mario Bros. rounded out the podium with third place. Completing the top five were *Half-Life* and *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time*, respectively.

Notably absent from the list were modern hits such as Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite, suggesting that influence doesn’t always equate with popularity or commercial success.

Yu Suzuki, creator of the Shenmue series, expressed his gratitude for the recognition: “I am deeply honored and grateful that Shenmue has been selected as the Most Influential Video Game of All Time. At its inception, we set out to explore the question, ‘How real can a game become?’ aiming to portray a world and story unprecedented in scale and detail. This distinction serves as a powerful reminder that the challenge we embraced continues to resonate with and inspire so many people even today. It is truly the greatest encouragement.”

He continued, “Above all, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the fans around the world who have continued to love and support Shenmue. Your passion and encouragement have guided this journey every step of the way. And the story is not over yet — there is more to come! Thank you very much!”

Full List of the Top 21 Most Influential Games of All Time (as voted by the public):

1. Shenmue (1999)
2. Doom (1993)
3. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
4. Half-Life (1998)
5. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
6. Minecraft (2011)
7. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (2025)
8. Super Mario 64 (1996)
9. Half-Life 2 (2004)
10. The Sims (2000)
11. Tetris (1984)
12. Tomb Raider (1996)
13. Pong (1972)
14. Metal Gear Solid (1998)
15. World of Warcraft (2004)
16. Baldur's Gate 3 (2023)
17. Final Fantasy VII (1997)
18. Dark Souls (2011)
19. Grand Theft Auto 3 (2001)
20. Skyrim (2011)
21. Grand Theft Auto (1997)

The 2025 BAFTA Games Awards are scheduled to take place on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Leading this year’s nominations are *Senua's Saga: Hellblade II*, *Astro Bot*, and *Still Wakes the Deep*, each receiving 11, eight, and eight nominations respectively. Other notable nominees include *Thank Goodness You're Here!* with seven nods, *Black Myth: Wukong* with six, and *Helldivers 2* up for five awards.

Last year’s winners included *Baldur's Gate 3*, which took home five awards including Best Game. Additional wins were awarded to *Alan Wake 2*, *Super Mario Bros. Wonder*, and *Viewfinder*.