Video Games From the 2020s: History's Best Sellers

Hats off to 2020s! Few games commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Alongside sensationally popular hits like The Last of Us Part II and Ghost of Tsushima, consumers eagerly embraced the Y2K fever and early digital revolution. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like Nintendo EPD and Naughty Dog set the standard for quality, producing celebrated items that dominated airwaves and playground buzz alike. Browse our definitive retrospective below to rediscover the genuine articles of the era.

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

   Released in 2020 by Nintendo EPD, Nintendo

   Released worldwide on March 20, 2020, 'Animal Crossing: New Horizons' launched at an unprecedented moment in modern history. As nations across the globe entered lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the game's arrival felt serendipitous. It offered a vibrant, peaceful, and social virtual escape precisely when people needed it most. This specific release date transformed the game from a highly anticipated sequel into a global cultural phenomenon, providing a digital space for connection, creativity, and comfort. Its launch wasn't just a successful product release; it became a defining piece of media for a generation navigating a period of profound isolation and uncertainty.

2. The Last of Us Part II

   Released in 2020 by Naughty Dog, Sony Interactive Entertainment

   Released on June 19, 2020, 'The Last of Us Part II' exploded onto the gaming scene, immediately becoming one of the most talked-about titles of the year. As the highly anticipated sequel to Naughty Dog's critically acclaimed original, its launch was a global event, drawing immense player excitement and critical scrutiny. It wasn't just a game; it was a cultural phenomenon that sparked fervent discussions, commanded headlines, and set new benchmarks for narrative ambition in interactive entertainment. Its polarizing story and technical prowess ensured it remained a dominant force throughout 2020, captivating millions from day one.

3. Ghost of Tsushima

   Released in 2020 by Sucker Punch Productions, Sony Interactive Entertainment

   Released amidst a global pandemic on July 17, 2020, Sucker Punch Productions' 'Ghost of Tsushima' quickly became a beacon of immersive escapism and a critical darling, captivating millions worldwide. Its stunning recreation of feudal Japan, coupled with a compelling narrative of honor versus necessity, established it as one of the year's most talked-about and best-selling titles. The game wasn't just a commercial success; it resonated culturally, drawing players into an epic tale of a samurai defending his homeland, making it a definitive cultural phenomenon in a challenging year for entertainment.

4. Hades

   Released in 2020 by Supergiant Games, Supergiant Games

   Hades, released on September 17, 2020, by Supergiant Games, wasn't just another roguelike; it was a bona fide cultural phenomenon that redefined expectations for the genre. Emerging from an early access period with significant buzz, its full launch captivated critics and players alike, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about and acclaimed titles of the year. This isometric action-RPG, steeped in Greek mythology, offered an irresistible blend of fast-paced combat, deep narrative, and stunning art direction, establishing itself as a standout success in a competitive market and cementing Supergiant's reputation for crafting exceptional, character-driven experiences. Its unique approach to storytelling within a roguelike structure resonated deeply, proving that even repetition could feel fresh and compelling.

5. Phasmophobia

   Released in 2020 by Kinetic Games

   On September 18, 2020, a small indie title named Phasmophobia launched into Steam Early Access, quietly introducing a new type of cooperative horror. Released just ahead of the Halloween season, its timing was perfect. The game rapidly transformed from an unknown project into a viral phenomenon, largely fueled by its popularity on streaming platforms like Twitch. Players and viewers were captivated by its unique take on ghost hunting, which emphasized teamwork, suspense, and genuine scares over jump-scare-laden action. This date marks the beginning of its journey from a niche concept to one of the most successful and influential indie horror games of the decade.

6. Quest 2

   Released in 2020 by Reality Labs

   On October 13, 2020, the landscape of virtual reality changed forever with the release of the Oculus Quest 2. This date marks the moment high-quality, standalone VR broke free from the niche enthusiast market and became a mainstream consumer product. Before the Quest 2, immersive VR was largely tethered to expensive gaming PCs, creating a high barrier to entry. This new device offered a powerful, self-contained experience at a revolutionary price point, eliminating the need for external sensors, complex setup, or a connected computer. Its launch wasn't just an iteration; it was a strategic move to democratize VR, making it accessible and appealing to millions, and setting a new standard for the entire industry.

7. Xbox Series X/S

   Released in 2020 by Microsoft

   On November 10, 2020, Microsoft initiated its campaign in the ninth generation of video game consoles with the global release of the Xbox Series X and Series S. This launch was unique not only for occurring during a global pandemic, which created unprecedented demand and supply chain challenges, but also for its dual-hardware strategy. Instead of a single flagship, Microsoft offered two distinct options: the powerhouse Series X for premium 4K gaming and the compact, all-digital Series S as a more accessible entry point. This date marked the culmination of Project Scarlett and the full realization of Microsoft's vision for an ecosystem centered around the player and its Game Pass subscription service.

8. PlayStation 5

   Released in 2020 by Sony

   On November 12, 2020, Sony Interactive Entertainment launched the PlayStation 5 in North America, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea, marking a pivotal moment for the ninth generation of video game consoles. Released amidst a global pandemic, the launch was characterized by unprecedented demand and logistical challenges, leading to widespread stock shortages that defined its initial market presence. This date represented the culmination of years of development and the beginning of a new era focused on immersion, speed, and sensory feedback. For millions of eager gamers, November 12th was the day the future of interactive entertainment arrived in their homes, promising breathtaking visuals and revolutionary gameplay experiences.

9. Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War

   Released in 2020 by Treyarch, Raven Software, Activision

   On November 13, 2020, the world of gaming was thrust back into the shadowy conflicts of the 1980s with the worldwide release of Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. Launched during a unique moment in global history, the game arrived amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a major entertainment blockbuster to a world largely confined indoors. Its release was strategically timed to coincide with the launch of the next generation of consoles, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, making it one of the first major cross-generation titles. This positioned it not just as the next installment in a blockbuster franchise, but as a key piece of software bridging the gap between two hardware eras.

10. Cyberpunk 2077

    Released in 2020 by CD Projekt Red, CD Projekt

    On December 10, 2020, the gaming world held its collective breath for the release of Cyberpunk 2077. After years of development, multiple high-profile delays, and a marketing campaign that built expectations to astronomical levels, the day had finally arrived. This date marked the culmination of one of the most anticipated development cycles in modern gaming history, following CD Projekt Red's monumental success with The Witcher 3. The launch was a global event, with millions of players eager to finally step into the dystopian streets of Night City. It was a moment poised to define a generation of open-world RPGs, making its worldwide release a landmark date.

11. It Takes Two

    Released in 2021 by Hazelight Studios, Electronic Arts

    On March 26, 2021, Hazelight Studios and Electronic Arts launched "It Takes Two," a game that unapologetically defied industry trends. Released exclusively as a two-player cooperative experience, it entered a market saturated with single-player epics and competitive online titles. The date marked the arrival of a refreshingly unique action-adventure platformer built entirely around collaboration. As part of the EA Originals program, which supports independent visions, the game was a bold creative gamble. This release was not just another title on the calendar; it was the beginning of a journey for a game that would go on to receive widespread critical acclaim and ultimately win the coveted Game of the Year award.

12. Resident Evil Village

    Released in 2021 by Capcom, Capcom

    Resident Evil Village exploded onto the gaming scene on May 7, 2021, quickly becoming one of the year's most talked-about and bestselling titles. As the eighth main installment in the venerable Resident Evil series, it was met with immense anticipation, building on the first-person perspective and horror intensity established by its predecessor, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. Its launch wasn't just a commercial success; it was a cultural phenomenon, captivating both long-time fans and newcomers with its unique blend of gothic horror, intense action, and unforgettable characters, particularly the towering Lady Dimitrescu, who became an internet sensation even before the game's release. This immediate impact cemented its status as a must-play experience in 2021.

13. Metroid Dread

    Released in 2021 by MercurySteam, Nintendo

    Metroid Dread arrived on the Nintendo Switch in October 2021, marking a triumphant return for the classic 2D Metroid series after nearly two decades. Its launch was not just a major event for long-time fans who had yearned for a true sequel to Metroid Fusion, but also a significant cultural phenomenon within the gaming landscape of that year. Dread immediately captivated audiences with its polished gameplay, intense atmosphere, and a compelling narrative that brought closure to an overarching saga. Its critical acclaim and swift commercial success quickly solidified its status as one of the bestselling and most talked-about titles of 2021, proving that the Metroid formula, when executed with precision and innovation, remains as relevant and thrilling as ever. This long-awaited installment successfully bridged the gap between nostalgic reverence and modern design, creating an experience that felt both familiar and refreshingly new.

14. Horizon Forbidden West

    Released in 2022 by Guerrilla Games, Sony Interactive Entertainment

    Horizon Forbidden West launched on February 18, 2022, quickly cementing its place as one of the year's most anticipated and bestselling titles. Building upon the critical and commercial success of its predecessor, Horizon Zero Dawn, this sequel plunged players back into a breathtaking post-apocalyptic world teeming with majestic robotic creatures and lush, overgrown ruins. Its release was a major event for PlayStation enthusiasts, generating immense hype for its expanded open world, compelling narrative, and stunning visuals. The game wasn't just a hit with fans; it also garnered widespread critical acclaim, establishing itself as a significant cultural phenomenon in the gaming landscape of 2022 and beyond, demonstrating the continued power of rich, character-driven single-player experiences.

15. Elden Ring

    Released in 2022 by FromSoftware, Bandai Namco

    On February 25, 2022, the gaming world was reshaped with the worldwide release of Elden Ring. This date marked the culmination of years of fervent anticipation, fueled by the unprecedented collaboration between legendary game director Hidetaka Miyazaki and acclaimed fantasy author George R. R. Martin. For months, fans had dissected every frame of pre-release trailers, building a mountain of hype. On this day, players across the globe finally stepped into the Lands Between, a world shrouded in mystery and danger. The release wasn't just a launch; it was a cultural event, immediately dominating online discourse and setting a new standard for open-world action RPGs for years to come.

16. God of War Ragnarök

    Released in 2022 by Santa Monica Studio, Sony Interactive Entertainment

    God of War Ragnarök burst onto the gaming scene on November 9, 2022, immediately establishing itself as a colossal cultural phenomenon and a critical darling. As the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 reboot, expectations were sky-high, and Santa Monica Studio not only met them but arguably exceeded them. Its launch was a global event, dominating social media, streaming platforms, and gaming discussions for weeks. The game quickly became a must-play title, drawing in both long-time fans of the God of War series and newcomers eager to experience its epic narrative and stunning presentation. Its widespread acclaim and commercial success solidified its position as one of the definitive entertainment experiences of 2022, truly captivating the collective imagination of the gaming community.

17. Pokémon Scarlet / Violet

    Released in 2022 by Game Freak, Nintendo, The Pokémon Company

    November 18, 2022, marked a monumental day for Pokémon fans, as 'Pokémon Scarlet' and 'Pokémon Violet' launched worldwide on the Nintendo Switch. This date represented the dawn of the ninth generation of Pokémon, but more importantly, it fulfilled a long-held dream: the series' first truly open-world mainline entry. The launch was met with immense anticipation, as players eagerly awaited the chance to explore the expansive, Iberian Peninsula-inspired Paldea region without boundaries. For millions, this day was the beginning of an unprecedented journey, promising a new level of freedom and discovery in a franchise that had captivated audiences for over 25 years.

18. Hogwarts Legacy

    Released in 2023 by Avalanche Software, Warner Bros. Games

    On February 10, 2023, the wizarding world opened its doors like never before with the worldwide release of Hogwarts Legacy on PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S. This date marked the culmination of years of anticipation from Harry Potter fans who had long dreamt of a truly immersive, open-world role-playing game set in the beloved universe. The launch was a monumental event in the gaming industry, met with enormous hype and pre-order numbers. It wasn't just another game release; it was the fulfillment of a promise, allowing millions to finally receive their virtual Hogwarts letter and begin their own unique magical journey, independent of the famous boy wizard's story.

19. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

    Released in 2023 by Nintendo EPD, Nintendo

    The highly anticipated sequel, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, exploded onto the gaming scene on May 12, 2023, instantly captivating millions and becoming one of the year's defining cultural phenomena. Following the groundbreaking success of Breath of the Wild, expectations were astronomically high, yet Nintendo EPD delivered a title that not only met but frequently surpassed them. Its launch was a global event, with fans eagerly diving back into Hyrule to uncover new mysteries and unleash unprecedented creative powers. This game wasn't just a sequel; it was a testament to innovative open-world design, pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks for interactive storytelling and player agency in 2023.

20. Baldur's Gate 3

    Released in 2023 by Larian Studios, Larian Studios

    Baldur's Gate 3 exploded onto the gaming scene in 2023, instantly captivating millions with its ambitious scope and unparalleled player freedom. Developed by Larian Studios, its full release swiftly became a global cultural phenomenon, dominating discussions across social media, streaming platforms, and gaming forums. It wasn't just another RPG; it was a masterclass in interactive storytelling, setting new benchmarks for player agency and reactive world design. Its launch was more than a mere game release; it was a momentous event that redefined expectations for the genre, pulling both seasoned RPG veterans and newcomers into its rich, intricate world, establishing itself as one of the year's undisputed highlights.

21. Meta Quest 3

    Released in 2023 by Reality Labs

    On October 10, 2023, the landscape of consumer virtual reality took a significant leap forward with the official release of the Meta Quest 3. This date marked the culmination of years of development at Reality Labs, delivering on the promise of high-fidelity mixed reality for the masses. Unlike previous headsets that offered grainy, black-and-white views of the real world, the Quest 3's launch brought full-color, stereoscopic passthrough to a mainstream audience. For the first time, users could seamlessly blend their physical environment with digital objects and applications, transforming their living rooms into interactive playgrounds. This launch was not just a hardware release; it was the starting point for a new chapter in immersive computing, setting a new standard for what was possible at a consumer-friendly price point.

22. Alan Wake II

    Released in 2023 by Remedy Entertainment, Epic Games Publishing

    The long-awaited sequel, Alan Wake II, launched to critical acclaim and immediate player engagement in October 2023, quickly establishing itself as one of the year's most talked-about titles. Thirteen years after the original cult classic, Remedy Entertainment delivered a psychological survival horror experience that transcended traditional gaming boundaries. Its release was a significant cultural event for horror enthusiasts and narrative-driven game fans, blending meta-commentary, live-action sequences, and a deeply unsettling atmosphere. The game's innovative approach to storytelling and its striking visual fidelity captivated audiences, solidifying its place as a standout release and a true phenomenon in the latter half of 2023.

23. Nex Playground

    Released in 2023 by Nex

    On December 12, 2023, just in time for the holiday season, Nex launched the Nex Playground, a device aiming to redefine family game night. This release marked a significant evolution in motion gaming, a category once dominated by the likes of the Nintendo Wii and Microsoft Kinect. Instead of relying on peripherals or specific controllers, the Playground leveraged advanced AI and a wide-angle camera to track body movements, turning players themselves into the controller. Its debut on this date positioned it as a fresh, technologically advanced gift for families seeking active, shared entertainment, stepping into a market with a new proposition for intuitive, controller-free fun that gets everyone off the couch.

24. Helldivers 2

    Released in 2024 by Arrowhead Game Studios, Sony Interactive Entertainment

    Helldivers 2 blasted onto the gaming scene on February 8, 2024, immediately capturing the attention of millions and rapidly establishing itself as a cultural phenomenon. Its unexpected and explosive success saw it dominate sales charts across PlayStation 5 and PC, quickly becoming one of the year's defining releases. Far more than just a sequel, it reimagined its predecessor's top-down perspective into a third-person co-op shooter, drawing players into its chaotic, satirical universe of galactic warfare. The game’s blend of challenging gameplay, dark humor, and emergent storytelling fueled constant community engagement and made it a constant topic of discussion.

25. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

    Released in 2024 by Square Enix, Square Enix

    Final Fantasy VII Rebirth exploded onto the gaming scene on February 29, 2024, immediately solidifying its status as one of the year's most anticipated and bestselling titles. As the second installment in the Final Fantasy VII Remake project, it carried immense weight and fan expectations, which it largely surpassed. Its launch wasn't just a game release; it was a cultural event, drawing millions back into the sprawling, beloved world of Gaia. The title’s ambitious scope, stunning visuals, and deep narrative continuation captivated audiences worldwide, making it an undeniable highlight in 2024’s entertainment landscape and a testament to the enduring legacy of Final Fantasy VII.

26. Black Myth: Wukong

    Released in 2024 by Game Science

    August 20, 2024, marks a monumental day in the gaming world with the worldwide release of 'Black Myth: Wukong'. After years of intense anticipation sparked by a stunning 2020 gameplay reveal, developer Game Science finally delivers its ambitious project. The date represents the culmination of immense global hype for a title that promises to redefine action RPGs with its next-generation visuals and combat. For millions who have followed its development, this day is their first opportunity to step into the role of the legendary Monkey King, Sun Wukong, and experience the rich mythology of the 16th-century novel 'Journey to the West' in a way never before imagined, setting the stage for one of the biggest launches of the year.

27. Silent Hill 2

    Released in 2024 by Bloober Team, Konami

    The year 2024 witnessed a monumental return to horror with the launch of 'Silent Hill 2,' instantly captivating a global audience and cementing its place as the bestselling video game of the year. This long-awaited reimagining from Bloober Team and Konami wasn't just a game; it was a cultural event, drawing both long-time fans and a new generation into its suffocating embrace. Its release sparked widespread discussions, analyses, and a collective dive back into the unsettling psychological depths that define the series, proving that the silent, foggy town still holds an unparalleled power to terrify and intrigue.

28. Sid Meier's Civilization VII

    Released in 2025 by Firaxis Games, 2K

    Sid Meier's Civilization VII didn't just launch in 2025; it erupted onto the global gaming scene, immediately cementing its place as the year's undisputed strategic titan. Released on February 11th, this latest iteration of the legendary 4X series transcended typical game releases, becoming a true cultural phenomenon. Millions of players worldwide dedicated countless hours to building empires, forging alliances, and conquering rivals, igniting fervent discussions across social media, streaming platforms, and traditional media outlets. Its release was more than an event; it was a rallying cry for strategy enthusiasts, a testament to its enduring appeal and a brilliant re-imagining of what a Civilization game could be in the modern era, captivating both long-time fans and a new generation of aspiring world leaders.

29. Monster Hunter Wilds

    Released in 2025 by Capcom, Capcom

    Monster Hunter Wilds, launched February 28, 2025, became an immediate global sensation, solidifying its place as the year's undisputed bestselling video game. Building on the franchise's legendary reputation, Wilds didn't just meet expectations; it shattered them, captivating millions with its expansive world and dynamic gameplay. Its release was a monumental cultural event, generating unparalleled excitement across gaming communities worldwide. Players flocked to immerse themselves in its perilous yet beautiful environments, forging an instant connection with its richly detailed ecosystems and formidable creatures. This launch firmly established Wilds as a true benchmark for action RPGs, defining the gaming landscape of 2025 and beyond.

30. Ghost of Yotei

    Released in 2025 by Sucker Punch Productions, Sony Interactive Entertainment

    The launch of 'Ghost of Yotei' on October 24, 2025, was not just a major event in the gaming calendar; it was a cultural phenomenon that captivated players worldwide. Developed by Sucker Punch Productions and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, this PlayStation 5 exclusive immediately shot to the top of sales charts, cementing its status as the bestselling video game of the year. Building on the acclaimed legacy of its spiritual predecessor, 'Ghost of Yotei' delivered an immersive experience that resonated deeply, offering a breathtaking journey into a meticulously crafted feudal Japan and setting new benchmarks for open-world storytelling and action-adventure gameplay.