The Hall of Fame: 10 Best Selling Games of All Times

The blog offers insights on the best-selling games of all time that have achieved legendary status by topping sales charts worldwide and capturing the hearts of millions of gamers. Each title’s unique appeal, innovative gameplay, and lasting impact are discussed, providing insight into what makes these games true legends in the gaming industry.

We live in a world where video games aren’t just a pastime but a global phenomenon, shaping cultures and sparking conversations. There are game rooms where gamers discuss their favorite titles and most popular games of all time. These games aren’t just popular—they’re also the best selling games of all time, each with its tale of how it captured the hearts of millions and achieved extraordinary success.

How do some games reach such iconic status, becoming not just a favorite but a cultural landmark? 

What made these games stand out in a crowded market? 

Was it their groundbreaking gameplay, unforgettable characters, or perhaps a stroke of marketing strategy?

In this blog, we will reveal it all for you. It explores the unique features that turned these titles into best-selling games of all time and kept them beloved long after their release.

Revealing Top 10 Best-Selling Video Games of All Time

Explore the detailed and extensive list of the top 10 best-selling video games ever created, ranked meticulously by their overall sales numbers across all regions and platforms. This list not only showcases the games with the highest total sales but also highlights their extraordinary success and enduring appeal in the gaming industry.

1. Tetris

Tetris was a simple yet addictive game that hooked players from the very first moment. It has seen the evolution of the gaming industry. Created by a Russian software engineer named Alexey Pajitnov in 1984, Tetris quickly became more than just a game; it became a global sensation. 

The concept of Tetris is straightforward: you fit falling shapes, known as “tetrominoes,” into a grid to create complete lines, which then disappear. It sounds simple, but the challenge of fitting those shapes together in the best way possible is what makes the game so engaging. It’s like solving a never-ending puzzle that keeps you coming back for more.

But what made Tetris such a massive hit? For one, it was incredibly easy to pick up but hard to put down. It was perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Plus, it was released on a wide range of platforms, from the early video games and consoles to modern smartphones, making it accessible to everyone.

Its addictive gameplay, combined with its accessibility, helped Tetris sell over 520+ million copies across various platforms. It’s a game that turned a simple idea into a worldwide phenomenon, showing that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest ones.

Release Year – 1984
Genre – Puzzle Video Game
Creator – Alexey Pajitnov
Copies Sold: 520+ Million

2. Minecraft

Picture a world where your imagination is the only limit. That’s Minecraft for you. Created by Markus Persson and released in 2011, Minecraft lets players build and explore endless worlds made entirely of blocks. It’s like having a giant sandbox where you can create anything you dream up, from towering castles to intricate cities.

Minecraft’s appeal lies in its simple yet limitless possibilities. At its core, the game is about placing and breaking blocks in a 3D world. But this basic concept opens up a universe of creativity. Players can gather resources, craft tools, and build anything their minds can conjure. Whether you want to survive in a rugged environment, explore mysterious caves, or design elaborate structures, Minecraft has something for everyone. It is a distinctive game that sold over 300+ million copies worldwide by 2023.

So, how did Minecraft sell over 300+ million copies and achieve this status? Its charm is in its freedom and versatility. The game appeals to players of all ages, offering endless ways to play. It also fosters a vibrant community where players share their creations and collaborate on exciting projects. Plus, its availability on almost every platform—from PC to consoles to mobile devices—makes it accessible to a wide audience.

Minecraft has inspired a wide range of merchandise, spin-off games, books, and educational tools. It has become a significant part of modern pop culture, appearing in schools as an educational tool and influencing various media. Minecraft’s blend of creativity, exploration, and accessibility turned it into a beloved classic. It transformed from a simple Indie game into a massive hit, proving that sometimes, the most powerful experiences come from letting your imagination run wild.

Release Year – 2009 (PC Alpha) and 2011 (General Release)
Genre – Stimulation Video Game
Creator – Markus Notch Persson
Copies Sold: 300+ Million

3. Grand Theft Auto 5

Who doesn’t know GTA V or who hasn’t played it. Of course, every hardcore game lover has. Maybe that’s the reason why the Rockstar Games has come up with GTA 6 and it is about to hit the market, for which gamers are waiting patiently.

GTA V is really an interesting game that unfolds in a sprawling, sun-soaked city where players live their wildest action-movie fantasies. The game not only pushed the boundaries of open-world gaming but also redefined what video games could achieve in terms of storytelling, freedom, and sheer scale.

Released in 2013 by Rockstar Games, GTA V takes players into the chaotic lives of three distinct characters: Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. The game is set in the fictional city of Los Santos which closely resembles Los Angeles.

The best thing about this amazing game is that it takes you through a massive world filled with endless possibilities. Whether you are planning a heist, racing through the streets, or simply exploring the vast landscape, GTA V gives you the freedom to do it all.

But what made GTA V such a monumental success? To be precise, the game’s attention to detail is astounding, from the dynamic, living world of Los Santos to the intricate narrative that ties together the three protagonists’ stories. The game blends intense action with dark humor and social commentary, making it not just a game, but a satirical reflection of modern society.

GTA V’s success also stems from its groundbreaking online mode, Grand Theft Auto Online. This feature allowed players to connect with others in a shared world, engaging in missions, heists, and even building their criminal empires, ensuring that the game stayed relevant and continually fresh with new content updates.

Selling over 185 million copies, GTA V has become one of the best selling games of all time. Its mix of immersive storytelling, vast open-world exploration, and endless player freedom made it a landmark title that continues to captivate players worldwide. It’s a game where the city is your playground, and the only limit is your imagination—and it’s up to you how much trouble you’re willing to get into.

Release Year – 2013
Genre – Action Adventure Video Game
Creator – Alexey Pajitnov
Copies Sold – 185+ Million

4. Wii Sports

Wii Sports is like a fun playground right in your living room. It’s a collection of five simple but super-entertaining sports games: tennis, baseball, bowling, golf, and boxing. Each game lets you use the Wii Remote to mimic real-life sports movements. For example, you can swing the remote like a tennis racket, roll it like a bowling ball, or even punch with it as if you’re in a boxing match. 

The game doesn’t require complicated button combinations or intense strategies, making it easy for anyone to pick up and play. The graphics are simple, with characters called “Miis” that look like playful, cartoon versions of yourself or your friends. This adds to the charm and accessibility of the game making it a one of the top 10 best-selling video games of all time.

When players bought the Wii (home game console), Wii Sports was included with the console in many regions. It means that millions of people got the game as soon as they bought the console, instantly giving them a reason to love the Wii. Wii Sports encouraged social interaction and even got people moving, which was different from most video games at the time.

It wasn’t just about sitting on the couch; you could get a little workout while having fun. For these reasons, Wii Sports became famous because it was easy to play, incredibly fun, and brought something new and exciting to video games. Its ability to connect people and get them moving made it a timeless favorite in gaming history.

Release Year- 2006
Genre – Sports Sitmulation
Creators – Nintendo
Copies Sold – 82.9+ Million

5. PUBG Battlegrounds

PUBG is like a high-stakes game of hide and seek but with 100 players and a lot more action. It is among the most popular battle royale games. PUBG didn’t invent the battle royale genre, but it made it incredibly popular. The thrill of competing against 99 other players in a single match was a fresh and exciting experience for many gamers.

Every match is different in PUBG. The random location of weapons and the shrinking play zone mean you never know how a game will unfold. This unpredictability makes each match feel like a new adventure. While you need quick reflexes to survive, PUBG rewards careful planning and decision-making. So, you sneak around and avoid fights or go in guns blazing. The choice is yours, and every strategy can lead to victory.

The game’s maps are huge and have diverse environments like cities, forests, and fields. This variety keeps the gameplay interesting, as you have to adapt your tactics to different terrains. PUBG quickly became a hit in the gaming community, spawning a massive online following. Its popularity also helped it become one of the most popular mobile games and a major player in esports, with tournaments and competitions offering big prizes.

PUBG has generated billions of dollars in revenue thanks to its sales, in-game purchases, and mobile version. In 2021 alone, PUBG Mobile reportedly earned over $2.01 billion in revenue.

Release Year – 2017
Genre – Battle Royale Game
Creator – PUBG Corporation
Copies Sold – 75+ Million

6. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe brings together beloved Nintendo characters in high-speed races. The game helped racing games gain traction with its charisma. In this game, you get to speed around vibrant tracks with famous faces like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach, while using fun and zany items like banana peels and shells to get ahead.

The game’s use of power-ups and items creates unpredictable and exciting races. Throwing a red shell at a rival or dodging a banana peel adds a thrilling element of surprise and strategy to each race. 

The game features beautiful, vibrant graphics and creatively designed tracks. The attention to detail in each course, from colorful landscapes to intricate designs, makes every race visually captivating.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has sold over 70 million+ copies, making it one of the best-selling games on the Nintendo Switch. It holds the title of the best-selling racing game of all time. Its impressive sales, critical acclaim, and robust multiplayer features have made it a standout title in the Mario Kart series and one of the best selling video games of all time.

Release Year – 2017
Genre – Racing Video Games
Creator – Nintendo
Copies Sold – 70+ Million

7. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a captivating open-world game that takes players on an unforgettable journey through the American Wild West. Released by Rockstar Games, it quickly became famous for its stunning graphics, rich storytelling, and deeply immersive world. Players get to live the life of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw struggling to survive as the Old West fades away.

The game stands out for its incredible attention to detail. Every interaction, whether players are riding through rugged landscapes, hunting wildlife, or engaging with diverse characters, feels real and meaningful. The world of Red Dead Redemption 2 is alive, with dynamic weather, realistic animal behavior, and a story that adapts to your choices.

It won numerous awards, including Game of the Year from several outlets, and is often praised as one of the greatest video games ever made. Its fame also comes from the emotional depth of its characters, the freedom it offers players, and the epic, cinematic experience it provides.

Release Year – 2018
Genre – Action Adventure Games
Creator – Rockstar Games
Copies Sold – 65+ Million

8. Super Mario Bros

Super Mario Bros is a classic video game that has been capturing hearts since 1985! It isn’t just a game—it’s a legend that brought joy to millions and shaped the future of video games! The game introduces players to Mario, a brave plumber. He gets into the game world to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of villain Bowser.

The game’s vibrant, imaginative worlds, compelling narratives, catchy tunes, and innovative level design established a new standard for players back in time. In the 90s, Super Mario Bros became a cultural phenomenon, appealing to gamers of all ages with its easy-to-learn controls and endless fun.   It also played a key role in revitalizing the video game market after the crash of the early 1980s.

Its success not only launched Mario into stardom but also laid the foundation for countless sequels and spin-offs, making it a cornerstone of video game history and a cherished part of many childhoods. This game isn’t just about saving a princess; it’s about adventure, creativity, and the joy of gaming at its finest!

Release Year – 1985
Genre – Arcade Platformer Game
Creator – Nintendo
Copies Sold – 58+ Million

9. Overwatch

Overwatch is a game that redefined the multiplayer shooter genre with its vibrant and fast-paced action gameplay. Released by Blizzard Entertainment, Overwatch quickly became a top game known for its diverse cast of heroes and unique gameplay mechanics.

Each character in Overwatch has a distinct personality, backstory, and set of abilities, ranging from the time-bending Tracer to the gravity-defying Winston. The game’s focus on teamwork over individual achievement set it apart from other shooters. Players must work together, combining their heroes’ abilities in creative ways to complete objectives and secure victory.

This team-based approach, along with the game’s bright, cartoonish art style and fluid, responsive controls, helped Overwatch stand out in a crowded market. The game’s achievements are impressive: it won numerous Game of the Year awards, sold millions of copies, and quickly built a massive, dedicated player base. Overwatch also made a significant impact on the eSports scene, with professional leagues and tournaments drawing large audiences.

Release Year – 2016
Genre – Multiplayer First Person Shooter Game
Creator – Blizzard Entertainment
Copies Sold – 50+ Million

10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an epic fantasy game that created new standards for open-world RPG games. Developed by CD Projekt Red, this game quickly became famous for its rich storytelling, vast world, and deep character development. It is a part of the Witcher series and contributes to the overall sales.

Players play the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter going on a quest to find his adopted daughter, Ciri. While searching for his daughter, he navigates through a world torn apart by war and political intrigue. He’s a flawed but relatable character, and the people he meets—friends, foes, and monsters alike—are all intricately developed, adding layers to the narrative. 

One of the game’s biggest achievements is it’s incredibly detailed world. The landscapes are breathtaking, from dark forests to bustling cities, each filled with unique quests and characters that feel alive. The choices you make in the game have real consequences, affecting not just the story but the entire world around you. This level of detail and depth in storytelling helped The Witcher 3 win over 250 Game of the Year awards, making it one of the best selling video games of all time.

Release Year – 2015
Genre – Action Role Playing Game
Creator – CD Projekt Red
Copies Sold – 50+ Million

The Secrets Behind the Success of These Popular Games

These games become best selling video games of all time through a combination of factors that worked together to create widespread appeal and commercial success. Here’s an analysis of the key elements:

• These games striked a balance between being easy to pick up for newcomers and offering depth for experienced players. They had intuitive controls and balanced game level design that allowed a wide range of people to enjoy the game, regardless of their gaming background.
• These best-selling games introduced new concepts, game mechanics design, or technologies that captured players’ imaginations. This innovation created buzz, setting the game apart from competitors.
• Effective marketing campaigns and leveraging established franchises or recognizable characters significantly boosted these game’s visibility and sales.
• They had polished graphics, engaging soundtracks, and attention to detail in game design contributed to the overall quality and appeal.
• These games followed game development trends, tapped into cultural aspects and resonated with the socio-cultural climate of their time that helped them gain additional traction.
• They were built by experienced developers and renowned game development companies that made a huge impact on the overall success. 

The world of best selling video games of all time is vast and ever-evolving, but these top 10 best-selling titles have managed to capture the hearts and wallets of players across generations and cultures. As we look to the future of gaming, it’s clear that the path to creating a best-seller is multifaceted. Factors such as innovation, accessibility, social features, and post-launch support all play crucial roles. 

Yet, at the heart of each success story is a game that resonates with players on a fundamental level, offering experiences that are engaging, rewarding, and fun to play. However, success also depends on the chosen game developers for hire or company that builds the game.

Build Your Next Best-Selling Game With the 300Mind Strategy

300Mind is a prestigious game design and development company known for its creativity and innovation across the globe. We know what makes a game tick and how to make it stand out in a crowded market. With a proven track record in delivering top-tier games, we excel in translating visionary concepts into commercially successful titles.

At 300Mind, we leverage cutting-edge technology, including advanced graphics engines, AI-driven mechanics, and real-time rendering, to push the boundaries of what’s possible in game development. Our commitment to quality is unwavering; every project undergoes rigorous testing to ensure a seamless, entertaining experience.

FAQs about Best Selling Video Games

WRITTEN BY Ankit Dave

Ankit Dave is a team leader (Game) with more than 5 years of experience in 2D & 3D gaming/console gaming/AR/VR/Machine Learning. Requirement understands, create a GDD, create an architecture of the game to make them as scalable as possible, deploy the games on various platforms.