BAFTA Names 'Most Influential Game' - Surprising Choice Revealed

BAFTA, the UK's renowned independent arts charity that celebrates excellence in film, games, and television, has recently unveiled what they consider to be the most influential video game of all time. The announcement might catch many by surprise, as the top spot isn't occupied by a mainstream blockbuster like you might expect.

In a public poll conducted by BAFTA, a diverse list of iconic games was considered. While titles such as GTA, Tetris, World of Warcraft, Minecraft, Doom, and Half-Life 2 did make the cut, it's Shenmue that clinched the highest number of votes. Released in 1999 for the Dreamcast, Shenmue is an action-adventure game that follows Ryo Hazuki on his quest for vengeance following his father's murder. BAFTA praised Shenmue for its "detailed open-world setting that truly captures the essence of Yokosuka in the ‘80s."

The "pioneering first-person shooter" Doom from 1993 took the second spot, while the legendary 1985 platformer Super Mario Bros. secured the bronze medal. Completing the top five are Half-Life and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, both released in 1998.

Notably absent from the top rankings are modern giants such as Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite.

Yu Suzuki, the visionary behind the Shenmue franchise, expressed his gratitude, 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 global fanbase, 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!”

Below is the comprehensive 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 with 11 nods, followed by Astro Bot and Still Wakes the Deep each receiving eight. Thank Goodness You're Here! is up for seven awards, Black Myth: Wukong for six, and Helldivers 2 is nominated for five.

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