The 2000s marked one of the most important decades in gaming history. Consoles like the PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, Wii, and later the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 shaped how people played and connected with games. Each year brought standout titles that defined genres, introduced new franchises, and pushed technology forward. The best video games of the 2000s by year show how the industry grew from simple 3D worlds into massive, story-driven, and online experiences that still influence gaming today.
From the life simulation of The Sims in 2000 to the open-world adventures of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas in 2004 and the groundbreaking Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare in 2007, the decade delivered variety and innovation. Sports fans, RPG players, and action gamers all found something that set new standards and kept them coming back year after year.
Looking back at these yearly highlights shows not just which games stood out, but also how quickly the industry evolved. By the end of the decade, online multiplayer, cinematic storytelling, and portable gaming had become central parts of the experience, setting the stage for the next generation.
The Best Video Games by Year (2000–2025)
Video games have evolved dramatically since the turn of the millennium. Each year brought a title that stood above the rest—whether for its sales success, groundbreaking design, or sweeping awards recognition. Here’s a definitive year-by-year guide to the best video games from 2000 through 2025.
From the birth of The Sims to the sweeping success of Baldur’s Gate 3 and beyond, the past 25 years have delivered unforgettable experiences that defined eras, inspired innovation, and captivated millions. Each year brought something unique, showing just how far games have come—and where they’re headed next.
2000 – The Sims
Maxis’ life simulation game became a cultural phenomenon, introducing an entirely new genre. It was the best-selling PC game of the year and went on to spawn one of the most successful franchises in gaming history. Its blend of creativity, accessibility, and cultural footprint make it the defining game of 2000.
2001 – Grand Theft Auto III
Rockstar revolutionized open-world gaming with GTA III. Its sandbox freedom, mature themes, and urban realism changed the industry forever. While Halo: Combat Evolved made history on Xbox, GTA III ultimately had the broader global impact, setting the stage for modern open-world design.
2002 – Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Transporting players to a neon-soaked 1980s Miami, Vice City combined open-world freedom with unforgettable music, style, and storytelling. It became both a critical and commercial hit, cementing Rockstar as a cultural powerhouse.
2003 – Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
BioWare’s RPG offered unprecedented choice in the Star Wars universe. Its morality system, branching narrative, and deep role-playing mechanics made it an instant classic and one of the most influential RPGs of its time.
2004 – Half-Life 2
Valve’s groundbreaking shooter combined physics-driven gameplay, cinematic storytelling, and cutting-edge graphics. It swept Game of the Year awards and remains one of the most influential titles ever created.
2005 – Resident Evil 4
Capcom reinvented survival horror with this action-packed masterpiece. Its over-the-shoulder camera, relentless pacing, and intense design reshaped not just horror games but third-person shooters for years to come.
2006 – The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
Bethesda expanded the open-world RPG formula with stunning visuals and unmatched freedom of play. While Wii Sports sold more units, Oblivion’s critical acclaim and multiple awards secured its place as 2006’s defining game.
2007 – BioShock
Set in the underwater city of Rapture, BioShock blended atmosphere, narrative, and first-person action like no game before it. Its philosophical undertones and haunting world made it one of the most celebrated titles of the decade.
2008 – Grand Theft Auto IV
Rockstar returned to Liberty City with a gritty, cinematic story and unparalleled open-world realism. It pushed seventh-generation consoles to their limits and earned near-universal acclaim.
2009 – Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
Naughty Dog perfected the cinematic action-adventure formula with breathtaking set pieces and character-driven storytelling. It became the standard for blockbuster narrative games.
2010 – Red Dead Redemption
Rockstar’s Western epic combined a massive open world with emotional storytelling and one of gaming’s most unforgettable endings. It set a new bar for immersion.
2011 – The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
With unmatched freedom, modding support, and cultural staying power, Skyrim became more than a game—it became a phenomenon. Its influence continues more than a decade later.
2012 – Journey
Thatgamecompany proved games could be emotionally transcendent. Journey’s minimalist design and cooperative play earned multiple Game of the Year awards and critical acclaim.
2013 – The Last of Us
Naughty Dog’s post-apocalyptic drama combined tense gameplay with one of the most powerful stories in video game history. It set a new gold standard for narrative-driven experiences.
2014 – Dragon Age: Inquisition
BioWare delivered a sprawling fantasy RPG filled with choice, exploration, and rich storytelling. It won Game of the Year at The Game Awards and became a fan favorite.
2015 – The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
CD Projekt Red crafted a modern RPG masterpiece. Its deep storytelling, world-building, and sheer content made it one of the greatest games of all time.
2016 – Overwatch
Blizzard’s hero shooter dominated multiplayer gaming and sparked the hero-shooter craze. It won Game of the Year and shaped the esports landscape for years.
2017 – The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Nintendo redefined open-world design with a focus on exploration, physics, and player freedom. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest games ever made.
2018 – God of War
Santa Monica Studio reinvented Kratos with a Norse mythology setting, emotional storytelling, and cinematic combat. The game redefined the franchise and won numerous awards.
2019 – Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
FromSoftware’s samurai-themed action game delivered punishing yet rewarding combat. It won Game of the Year at The Game Awards and stood out as one of the studio’s finest creations.
2020 – The Last of Us Part II
Ambitious, divisive, and unforgettable, The Last of Us Part II pushed narrative and technical boundaries. It swept awards globally, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards.
2021 – It Takes Two
Hazelight’s co-op adventure charmed players with creativity, humor, and heart. It earned universal praise and won Game of the Year at The Game Awards.
2022 – Elden Ring
FromSoftware expanded its Souls formula into an open world with stunning success. Its blend of combat, exploration, and freedom earned near-universal acclaim and Game of the Year honors.
2023 – Baldur’s Gate 3
Larian Studios’ D&D RPG set a new standard for player choice and storytelling. It dominated awards season, earning praise as one of the best RPGs ever made.
2024 – Helldivers 2
Arrowhead’s cooperative shooter became a surprise global hit. Its community-driven design, massive player base, and critical acclaim earned it multiple Game of the Year awards, making it the standout of 2024.
2025 – Caves of Qud (so far)
Though the year is still unfolding, Caves of Qud has already made history by winning the Hugo Award for Best Game or Interactive Work. With other major contenders like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Hades II, and Black Myth: Wukong in the mix, 2025 promises to be a landmark year in gaming.
Key Takeaways
- The 2000s introduced major consoles and iconic franchises
- Each year featured standout titles that shaped gaming trends
- The decade set the foundation for modern gaming experiences
Frequently Asked Questions
The 2000s produced some of the most influential games across consoles and PC, shaping both technology and culture. Many titles became industry standards, while others faded but left strong memories for those who played them.
What are the top critically acclaimed video games released between 2000 and 2010?
Games like Grand Theft Auto III, Halo: Combat Evolved, Half-Life 2, BioShock, and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess earned high praise. Reviewers often cite these games for innovation, storytelling, and strong design.
Which PC games from the 2000s are considered classics today?
Half-Life 2, World of Warcraft, The Sims, Counter-Strike, and StarCraft: Brood War expansions remain widely respected. These games influenced genres, built lasting communities, and are still played in some form today.
What were the most popular video games of each year during the 2000s?
Each year had a standout. The Sims (2000), Halo: Combat Evolved (2001), Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002), Call of Duty (2003), World of Warcraft (2004), Resident Evil 4 (2005), The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (2006), Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007), Grand Theft Auto IV (2008), and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2009).
Can you list some iconic childhood video games from the early 2000s?
Many players remember Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, Kingdom Hearts, Animal Crossing, Super Smash Bros. Melee, and Mario Kart: Double Dash!!. These games were easy to pick up and often played with friends or family.
What are some of the most memorable but now forgotten video games of the 2000s?
Titles like TimeSplitters 2, Jet Set Radio Future, Dark Cloud, Okami, and Psychonauts earned praise but did not reach the same long-term popularity as bigger franchises. They remain cult favorites.
Which video games from the 2000s had the biggest cultural impact?
World of Warcraft defined online multiplayer. Grand Theft Auto III changed open-world design. Halo 2 pushed console online play. The Sims introduced life simulation to a mass audience. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare reshaped competitive shooters and set trends that continue today.
