The 2020s have been a golden era for video games, with the industry reaching new heights of creativity and cultural impact. As gaming continues to break into mainstream entertainment through acclaimed adaptations like The Last of Us and Sonic the Hedgehog, the medium itself has produced a handful of titles that stand above the rest. While many games have been solid or even great, only five can be called true masterpieces—works that excel in visuals, gameplay, story, and lasting influence. These are the games that will be remembered for decades.
Hades (2020): A Roguelike Revolution
Kicking off the decade, Hades from Supergiant Games reimagined Greek mythology with a fresh, comic-book-inspired art style reminiscent of Mike Mignola. Players control Zagreus, son of Hades, as he battles through the Underworld to find his mother Persephone. The game's vibrant colors, tight roguelike mechanics, and emotional storytelling make it a standout. Its speedrunner-friendly design and deep character interactions have ensured it ages like fine wine, earning it a spot among the all-time greats.
Elden Ring (2022): A Fantasy Epic for the Ages
From Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin, Elden Ring is a high-fantasy masterpiece set in the Lands Between. Its sprawling open world rewards exploration with constant surprises, while challenging combat offers immense satisfaction. The game's lore is dense and intriguing, and its influence on pop culture is undeniable—soon to be adapted into a film by Alex Garland. For fans of the best fantasy video games of all time, this is a must-play.
Baldur's Gate 3 (2023): The Ultimate RPG
Larian Studios' Baldur's Gate 3 adapts Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition with unparalleled fidelity. Players lead a party infected with illithid parasites, making choices that truly matter—every decision can lead to triumph or disaster. The game embraces high-fantasy tropes while elevating them, and its side quests feel essential. It's a perfect RPG that captures the creativity and resourcefulness of a tabletop campaign, solidifying 2023 as a landmark year for gaming.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023)
Nintendo's Tears of the Kingdom builds on Breath of the Wild's open-world formula, adding new mechanics like vehicle-building and sky islands. It's a masterclass in player freedom and discovery, with a poignant story about Link and Zelda. This sequel redefines what a Zelda game can be, offering endless creativity and emotional depth. It's a testament to Nintendo's ability to innovate within a beloved franchise.
One More Masterpiece: The 2023 Surge
While the original list highlights five, 2023 alone delivered multiple contenders, including Baldur's Gate 3 and Tears of the Kingdom. The decade's output proves that video games are not just entertainment but art. For more on the medium's evolution, check out our look at the 2010s' fantasy masterpieces. These five games—Hades, Elden Ring, Baldur's Gate 3, Tears of the Kingdom, and one more—represent the pinnacle of gaming in the 2020s.
