BAFTA Names Most Influential Game: Surprising Choice Revealed

BAFTA, the UK's independent arts charity that celebrates excellence in film, games, and television, has recently unveiled what it considers the most influential video game of all time. The revelation might surprise many, as the game chosen by the British public through a BAFTA poll is none other than Shenmue.

Released in 1999 for the Dreamcast, Shenmue is an action-adventure game that follows protagonist Ryo Hazuki on a quest to avenge his father's murder. Set in a meticulously crafted open-world that captures the essence of 1980s Yokosuka, the game has been praised for its detailed setting and immersive storytelling.

Coming in second place is the "pioneering first-person shooter" Doom, released in 1993, while 1985's Super Mario Bros. claimed the bronze medal. Rounding out the top five are Half-Life and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, both from 1998.

Interestingly, notable titles such as Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite did not make the cut.

Yu Suzuki, the creator of the Shenmue franchise, expressed his gratitude and honor at the game's selection. He highlighted the game's pioneering ambition to explore the limits of realism in gaming, aiming to portray a world and story unprecedented in scale and detail. Suzuki emphasized that this recognition underscores the lasting impact and inspiration Shenmue continues to have on gamers worldwide. He also acknowledged the unwavering support from fans, crediting their passion for guiding the franchise's journey and promising more to come.

Below is the full list of the top 21 most influential games, as voted by the public:

1. Shenmue (1999)
2. Doom (1993)
3. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
4. Half-Life (1998)
5. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
6. Minecraft (2011)
7. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (2025)
8. Super Mario 64 (1996)
9. Half-Life 2 (2004)
10. The Sims (2000)
11. Tetris (1984)
12. Tomb Raider (1996)
13. Pong (1972)
14. Metal Gear Solid (1998)
15. World of Warcraft (2004)
16. Baldur's Gate 3 (2023)
17. Final Fantasy VII (1997)
18. Dark Souls (2011)
19. Grand Theft Auto 3 (2001)
20. Skyrim (2011)
21. 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 with 11, eight, and eight nominations, respectively. Thank Goodness You're Here! has garnered seven nominations, Black Myth: Wukong six, and Helldivers 2 is up for five awards.

The 2024 BAFTA Game Awards saw Baldur's Gate 3 taking home five awards, including the prestigious Best Game category. Other winners included Alan Wake 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Viewfinder.