BAFTA Names Most Influential Video Game: Surprising Choice Revealed

BAFTA, the UK's independent arts charity dedicated to celebrating excellence in film, games, and TV, has recently unveiled what it considers to be the most influential video game of all time. The announcement might surprise many, as the top spot, determined by a public vote, goes to the action-adventure game Shenmue.

Released in 1999 for the Dreamcast, Shenmue follows protagonist Ryo Hazuki on his quest to avenge his father's murder. BAFTA praises the game for its "detailed open-world setting that truly captures the essence of Yokosuka in the ‘80s." This recognition underscores the game's pioneering approach to creating immersive worlds.

Coming in as the runner-up is the "pioneering first-person shooter" Doom, with Super Mario Bros. from 1985 securing the third position. The top five is rounded out by Half-Life and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, both from 1998.

Notably, some modern classics like Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite did not make the list.

Yu Suzuki, the creator of the Shenmue franchise, expressed his gratitude for the accolade, stating, “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 of encouragement."

Suzuki also extended his thanks to the fans, saying, "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!”

Here is the 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)

Looking ahead, the 2025 BAFTA Game Awards are scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Leading the nominations are Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Astro Bot, and Still Wakes the Deep with 11, eight, and eight nominations respectively. Thank Goodness You're Here! received seven nominations, Black Myth: Wukong six, and Helldivers 2 is up for five awards.

Reflecting on last year's achievements, the 2024 BAFTA Game Awards saw Baldur's Gate 3 clinch five wins, including Best Game. Other notable winners included Alan Wake 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Viewfinder.