The world of gaming is vast, with countless game series spanning multiple genres and platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just beginning to explore the realm of video games, certain game franchises stand out for their impact, innovation, and lasting appeal. Below, we dive into some of the most popular and beloved game series that every gamer should experience.
1. The Legend of Zelda: A Timeless Adventure
Since its debut in 1986, The Legend of Zelda series has become a cornerstone of the action-adventure genre. Created by Nintendo, the franchise follows the journey of Link, a young hero tasked with saving the land of Hyrule and defeating the evil Ganon. Known for its immersive world-building, puzzle-solving, and engaging combat, Zelda games continue to set the standard for adventure titles.
The most recent release, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, has received widespread acclaim for its expansive open-world exploration and innovative mechanics. If you haven’t played a Zelda game yet, this is a must-try series that showcases some of the finest storytelling and gameplay in gaming history.
2. The Elder Scrolls: A World of Infinite Possibilities
The Elder Scrolls series, developed by Bethesda, is known for its sprawling open worlds and deep role-playing elements. Players can immerse themselves in richly detailed fantasy settings, including the iconic provinces of Tamriel. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, released in 2011, has become a cultural phenomenon, with players able to create their own characters and live out their adventures in a world teeming with dragons, magic, and political intrigue.
The series’ focus on player choice, exploration, and modding communities has solidified its place as a must-play for RPG enthusiasts. With The Elder Scrolls VI currently in development, there’s never been a better time to dive into this fantasy epic.
3. Grand Theft Auto: The Ultimate Open-World Playground
If you’re a fan of open-world games and chaotic fun, Grand W88 Theft Auto (GTA) is a must-play series. Developed by Rockstar Games, the franchise lets players live out their criminal fantasies in a variety of sprawling cities. From the gritty streets of Liberty City to the sun-soaked roads of Los Santos, each GTA game offers a unique and dynamic environment filled with action-packed missions and free-roaming mayhem.
While Grand Theft Auto V remains one of the best-selling games of all time, GTA Online continues to offer fresh content and multiplayer experiences for fans, making it an ever-relevant series in modern gaming.
4. Dark Souls: Challenging Combat and Deep Lore
For those who seek a challenge, Dark Souls is the game series to turn to. Created by FromSoftware, Dark Souls is infamous for its unforgiving difficulty, intricate level design, and deep, often cryptic lore. The series focuses on methodical combat, where players must learn the mechanics, study enemy patterns, and approach each encounter with precision and patience.
The intricate world-building and deep lore hidden throughout each game create an experience that rewards exploration and perseverance. Dark Souls is not just about difficulty; it’s about creating a sense of accomplishment with each victory. It is a perfect choice for gamers who enjoy mastering complex gameplay and uncovering mysteries.
5. Assassin’s Creed: A Historical Journey
The Assassin’s Creed series, developed by Ubisoft, blends action, stealth, and historical exploration. Players take on the role of assassins, navigating different historical periods while uncovering conspiracies and battling Templar forces. With the franchise spanning from ancient Egypt in Assassin’s Creed Origins to ancient Greece in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, the series has provided gamers with vast and visually stunning open worlds to explore.
Known for its parkour-style movement and stealth-based combat, Assassin’s Creed offers a compelling mix of history and action. The most recent games, including Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, continue to evolve the formula with RPG elements and branching storylines.
6. Halo: A Sci-Fi Saga
One of the most iconic and influential franchises in gaming, Halo revolutionized the first-person shooter genre. Developed by Bungie and later 343 Industries, the Halo series follows the Master Chief, a supersoldier, as he battles alien forces known as the Covenant and other extraterrestrial threats. Halo: Combat Evolved set the standard for console shooters, with its tight controls, thrilling multiplayer, and epic storytelling.
The Halo franchise has since evolved with more complex narrative arcs, multiplayer modes, and game types, including the addition of Halo: Infinite, which continues to captivate players with its competitive multiplayer and deep lore.
7. The Witcher: An Epic Fantasy RPG
The Witcher series, developed by CD Projekt Red, follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, through a dark and morally complex world. Based on the books by Andrzej Sapkowski, the series is renowned for its rich storytelling, character-driven plots, and vast open worlds. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is often considered one of the best RPGs of all time, thanks to its breathtaking world, intricate quests, and impactful decisions.
With its focus on narrative depth and player choice, The Witcher series is perfect for fans of epic, story-driven games that offer a unique blend of combat, exploration, and moral dilemmas.
8. Mario Kart: Fun for Everyone
No list of popular game series is complete without Mario Kart. This beloved franchise from Nintendo has provided gamers of all ages with endless hours of fun through its fast-paced kart racing action. Known for its colorful tracks, iconic characters, and competitive multiplayer, Mario Kart has been a staple in both casual and competitive gaming communities.
Whether you’re playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch or enjoying one of the older entries, Mario Kart is always a great choice for quick, accessible gaming sessions with friends and family.
Conclusion: The Unforgettable Experience of These Game Series
These game series represent just a small fraction of the vast gaming landscape, yet each one offers a unique experience that has shaped the industry. From immersive RPGs to heart-pounding shooters and lighthearted racers, there is something for everyone in these iconic franchises. So, whether you’re exploring Hyrule, hunting monsters in The Witcher, or racing through Mario Kart, these game series should be on every gamer’s radar.