The Ultimate Guide to the Best-Selling Video Games of All Time
Video games have become an integral part of modern entertainment, captivating audiences of all ages across the globe. As the gaming industry continues to flourish, it’s fascinating to explore which titles have managed to stand out as the best-selling video games of all time. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the gaming world, unveiling the top-ranking titles that have left a lasting mark on players. So, fasten your seatbelts as we dive into the realm of gaming excellence!
Video games have evolved from humble beginnings into a multi-billion-dollar industry, captivating the hearts and minds of gamers across the globe. As we explore the top 20 best-selling video games of all time, we’ll journey through decades of gaming history and discover the titles that have achieved legendary status.
List of Top 20 Best-Selling Video Games
1. Tetris (500+ Million Copies Sold)
Kicking off our list is the iconic puzzle game, Tetris. Created by Russian programmer Alexey Pajitnov in 1984, Tetris has sold over 500 million copies worldwide. Its deceptively simple gameplay and addictive nature have made it a staple on nearly every gaming platform.
2. Minecraft (200+ Million Copies Sold)
Minecraft, developed by Markus Persson, is a sandbox game that has become a cultural phenomenon since its 2011 release. With more than 200 million copies sold, players are given the freedom to build, explore, and survive in a blocky, open-world environment.
3. Grand Theft Auto V (110+ Million Copies Sold)
The Grand Theft Auto series has always been a hit, but Grand Theft Auto V stands out. Released in 2013, it has sold over 110 million copies. The game’s open-world, immersive narrative, and complex characters have contributed to its massive success.
4. Wii Sports (82+ Million Copies Sold)
Wii Sports, bundled with the Nintendo Wii console, introduced motion-controlled gaming to a wider audience in 2006. It has sold approximately 82 million copies and is beloved for its family-friendly multiplayer games like tennis and bowling.
5. Super Mario Bros. (40+ Million Copies Sold)
Super Mario Bros., released in 1985, is a timeless classic. Featuring Mario’s adventures in the Mushroom Kingdom, it has sold over 40 million copies and remains a symbol of nostalgia for gamers worldwide.
6. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (28+ Million Copies Sold)
This installment in the iconic Legend of Zelda series, released in 2017, has sold more than 28 million copies. It’s renowned for its vast open world, stunning visuals, and immersive gameplay.
7. PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (70+ Million Copies Sold)
PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) brought the battle royale genre into the mainstream when it was released in 2017. With over 70 million copies sold, it paved the way for games like Fortnite.
8. Wii Fit (43+ Million Copies Sold)
Wii Fit, another success for the Nintendo Wii, sold more than 43 million copies. It encouraged players to get active by offering a range of fitness activities and exercises.
9. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (38+ Million Copies Sold)
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch, combines fast-paced racing with beloved Mario characters. With over 38 million copies sold, it’s a favorite for multiplayer fun.
10. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (30+ Million Copies Sold)
In North America, Call of Duty titles like Modern Warfare 3 have consistently ranked high in sales, with over 30 million copies sold in this region alone.
11. Red Dead Redemption 2 (38+ Million Copies Sold)
Rockstar Games’ Red Dead Redemption 2, released in 2018, is an open-world Western adventure that has sold more than 38 million copies. Its rich storytelling and stunning visuals have garnered critical acclaim.
12. New Super Mario Bros. (30+ Million Copies Sold)
New Super Mario Bros., released for the Nintendo DS in 2006, revived the classic 2D Mario platforming experience. It has sold more than 30 million copies worldwide.
13. Wii Play (28+ Million Copies Sold)
Another Wii title, Wii Play, sold over 28 million copies. It included a variety of mini-games, making it a popular choice for casual gaming.
14. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (27+ Million Copies Sold)
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, an earlier entry in the series, has sold over 27 million copies. It’s known for its sprawling open world and engaging storyline.
15. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (30+ Million Copies Sold)
Released in 2011, Skyrim is an open-world RPG that has sold more than 30 million copies. Its vast, fantasy world and modding community have kept players engaged for years.
16. Diablo III (30+ Million Copies Sold)
Diablo III, an action RPG released in 2012, has sold over 30 million copies. Its dark, addictive gameplay and cooperative multiplayer mode have contributed to its success.
17. Duck Hunt (28+ Million Copies Sold)
Duck Hunt, bundled with the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), has sold over 28 million copies. It’s a classic shooting game that introduced many to the joys of console gaming.
18. Pokémon Red/Green/Blue (31+ Million Copies Sold)
The Pokémon franchise, with its Red, Green, and Blue versions, has sold over 31 million copies. These games ignited a worldwide Pokémon phenomenon that continues to this day.
19. Wii Sports Resort (33+ Million Copies Sold)
Wii Sports Resort, a sequel to the original Wii Sports, sold more than 33 million copies. It introduced new sports and activities to the Wii experience.
20. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (13+ Million Copies Sold)
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, has sold over 13 million copies. It’s considered one of the greatest video games of all time, praised for its storytelling and gameplay.
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, these 20 titles stand as testaments to the power of storytelling, innovation, and gameplay. As gaming technology continues to advance, new contenders may emerge to challenge their legacy, but for now, these classics reign supreme.
