BAFTA Announces 'the Most Influential Video Game of All Time,' and It's a Real Head-Scratcher

BAFTA, the UK's renowned independent arts charity that celebrates excellence in film, games, and television, has just unveiled what they believe to be the most influential video game of all time. In a surprising twist, the honor goes to Shenmue, an action-adventure game that hit the shelves in 1999 for the Dreamcast. This game, which follows Ryo Hazuki's quest for vengeance amidst a meticulously crafted open world that encapsulates the essence of 1980s Yokosuka, has captured the hearts of the British public, as determined by BAFTA's poll.

While other gaming giants such as GTA, Tetris, World of Warcraft, Minecraft, Doom, and Half-Life 2 also made it onto the list, it's Shenmue that clinched the top spot with the highest number of votes. The "pioneering first-person shooter" Doom followed closely in second place, with the iconic Super Mario Bros. from 1985 securing the third position. Rounding out the top five are Half-Life and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, respectively.

Notably, some modern-day favorites like Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite did not make the cut, highlighting the public's appreciation for older, yet groundbreaking titles.

Yu Suzuki, the creator behind the Shenmue franchise, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition. "I am deeply honored and grateful that Shenmue has been selected as the Most Influential Video Game of All Time," Suzuki remarked. He emphasized the game's pioneering ambition to push the boundaries of realism and storytelling, a vision that continues to resonate with gamers worldwide. Suzuki also extended heartfelt thanks to the fans whose unwavering support has fueled the journey, and hinted at more to come in the Shenmue saga.

Here is the complete list of the top 21 most influential games of all time, as voted by the public:

• Shenmue (1999)
• Doom (1993)
• Super Mario Bros. (1985)
• Half-Life (1998)
• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
• Minecraft (2011)
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (2025)
• Super Mario 64 (1996)
• Half-Life 2 (2004)
• The Sims (2000)
• Tetris (1984)
• Tomb Raider (1996)
• Pong (1972)
• Metal Gear Solid (1998)
• World of Warcraft (2004)
• Baldur's Gate 3 (2023)
• Final Fantasy VII (1997)
• Dark Souls (2011)
• Grand Theft Auto 3 (2001)
• Skyrim (2011)
• 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, each boasting multiple nominations. Other notable contenders include Thank Goodness You're Here!, Black Myth: Wukong, and Helldivers 2.

Reflecting on the past, the 2024 BAFTA Game Awards saw Baldur's Gate 3 triumph with five wins, including the prestigious Best Game award. Other winners included Alan Wake 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Viewfinder, showcasing the diversity and excellence in the gaming industry.