Video games have become the dominant force in entertainment, with billions of players worldwide diving into everything from sprawling fantasy epics to casual sandbox adventures. Sales figures continue to climb year after year, but which titles have truly conquered the market? We've ranked the ten best-selling video games of all time based on reported sales data, combining figures from official company statements and reliable industry trackers. Note that this list includes combined sales for ports and re-releases, and while exact numbers can vary, these are the most widely accepted totals.
10. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) – 65+ Million Copies
Bethesda's open-world masterpiece, Skyrim, barely cracks the top ten with over 65 million copies sold. Players step into the boots of the Dragonborn, a prophesied hero destined to defeat Alduin the World-Eater. Despite some debate over the accuracy of the figure—Bethesda's Todd Howard has a reputation for optimistic sales claims—Xbox's head recently confirmed the milestone, cementing Skyrim's place among the all-time greats. Its influence on the action-adventure genre is undeniable.
9. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) – 65+ Million Copies
Another fantasy giant, The Witcher 3, matches Skyrim's sales with over 65 million copies. CD Projekt Red confirmed the number alongside news of a new expansion. The game follows Geralt of Rivia as he searches for his adopted daughter, Ciri, while evading the spectral Wild Hunt. Praised for its deep worldbuilding and narrative-driven design, The Witcher 3 set a new standard for storytelling in open-world RPGs.
8. Terraria (2011) – 70+ Million Copies
Shifting from AAA blockbusters to indie charm, Terraria has sold over 70 million copies, as announced by its developers on Steam's 15th anniversary. The 2D sandbox lets players explore, fight, craft, and build in an endless world. With 39.6 million sales on PC, 19.7 million on mobile, and 10.7 million on consoles, its casual, addictive gameplay has made it a staple for millions.
7. PUBG: Battlegrounds (2017) – 75 Million Copies
The battle royale craze exploded with PUBG: Battlegrounds, which sold 75 million copies before switching to a free-to-play model. Unlike Fortnite's free-to-play dominance, PUBG initially charged a fee, yet still built a massive dedicated fanbase. Players drop into a map, scavenge for gear, and fight to be the last one standing—a formula that defined a generation of shooters.
6. Mario Kart 8 / Deluxe (2014/2017) – 79.54+ Million Copies
Nintendo's racing gem, Mario Kart 8 and its Switch port Deluxe, have combined sales of over 79.54 million. Players choose from iconic Mario characters, customize their karts, and race on anti-gravity tracks. Nintendo's transparent sales reporting shows the enduring appeal of this polished, timeless racer, which continues to sell strongly years after release.
5. Wii Sports (2006) – 82.9 Million Copies
Bundled with the Wii console, Wii Sports sold 82.9 million copies, making it the fifth best-selling game ever. It offered five sports—bowling, baseball, boxing, tennis, and golf—using intuitive motion controls. While its sales reflect the console's success, the game itself is a beloved multiplayer classic that introduced millions to motion gaming.
The list continues with the top four spots, which include legendary titles like Minecraft, Tetris, and Grand Theft Auto V. For a deeper dive into gaming history, check out our ranking of the 20th century's most influential video games. And if you're a fan of adaptations, don't miss the best book-to-movie adaptations.
These sales figures highlight how gaming has evolved from niche hobby to global phenomenon. Whether you prefer epic quests, creative sandboxes, or competitive shooters, there's a best-seller for every taste. Which one is your favorite?
