What are the greatest video games in history? From 8-bit cartridges to modern blockbusters, this Top 1000 brings together the titles that defined every generation, all retested and reassessed by RomWize. For each one: its current score, its versions, their rarity and their collector value, so you can (re)discover the must-plays and build your collection.
"PS1 port of the legendary Chrono Trigger, considered the greatest JRPG ever made. Innovative ATB combat system, brilliantly constructed time travel, iconic characters and immortal soundtrack. Some loading times added alongside the bonus animations, but still absolutely essential."
"Final Fantasy VII is one of the most important video games ever created. Revolutionary 3D transition, epic scenario with Cloud and Sephiroth, legendary Nobuo Uematsu soundtrack and stunning FMV sequences. An absolute masterpiece that defined an entire generation and remains unsurpassed."
"Final Fantasy VII International is the enriched Japanese version incorporating bonus scenes from the western release and additional materias. The same absolute masterpiece experience in JRPG history with added content. The most complete version of FFVII on PS1."
"An absolute masterpiece, the first fully 3D Final Fantasy on a Sony console. The CTB combat system, the moving story of Tidus and Yuna, and the art direction of Spira compose a transcendent experience. One of the greatest achievements in role-playing game history."
"Enriched Japanese version of FFX with the bonus Dark Aeons, Penance, Expert and Black Sphere Grids and additional scenes. The most complete JRPG experience on PS2 with content for hundreds of hours. The definitive version for fans wanting to exhaust the title."
"Enriched version of FFXII adding the early FF Job system, entirely reconfiguring character progression. The Zodiac Jobs offer unmatched strategic customisation possibilities. The benchmark version of the game, superior to the original in every dimension of gameplay depth."
"BioWare invent the modern space opera with a charismatic Shepard and an unforgettable trio of squadmates. Wheel dialogue, open galaxy and still rough combat lay the groundwork for a trilogy that will leave a lasting mark on modern Western RPG."
"The culmination of the saga. The class and Interlink systems offer enormous tactical depth, and the story about mortality lands more truly than ever. The vast world demands its own pace, but the narrative ambition is remarkable."
"A remaster that does justice to a classic. The verticality of its open world is still impressive for its era, and the visual overhaul rejuvenates it noticeably. The somewhat dated combat takes adjusting to, but the epic is well worth the trip."
"A modern tribute to 16-bit-era JRPGs that outgrows mere pastiche: luminous pixel art, smooth traversal with no random encounters and timing-based combat with bite. The story takes its time, but the generosity of the whole wins out."
"Vengeance polishes an already strong formula: demanding turn-based combat, addictive demon fusion, and a new story route that shifts everything. Exploring Da'at feels cleaner, and the overall pacing is better tuned than in the original release."
"Monolith Soft JRPG of rare ambition, directed by Tetsuya Takahashi. Shulk wields the Monado sword against Mechon machines in a world built on the bodies of two giant gods. Massive open world in free exploration, real-time MMO-like combat without transition, fifty-hour epic narration. Imaginative fantasy art direction, memorable Yasunori Mitsuda soundtrack. Absolute Wii JRPG peak, essential."
"The absolute peak of the Gradius franchise developed by Treasure. Precision bullet patterns, level variety and the depth of the Options system make this shoot'em up an unchallenged benchmark. A genre masterpiece, graphically impressive and technically perfect on PS2."
"A sublime Pro Skater 2 sequel pushing skate madness even further. Precise controls, varied levels and an unforgettable soundtrack. An absolute sports peak."
"Mario Tennis from Camelot, with exemplary handling and surprising depth. Sixteen characters, positional play and spin shots executed with delightful precision and a doubles mode worth its weight in gold. Tennis that can be festive and demanding at once, if you don't mind sweat behind Mario's moustache."
"Wave Race 64 invents the jet-ski game with revolutionary wave physics. The swell literally lives under the floats, the Kawasaki riders each have their temperament and the eight waters offer remarkable variety. Still irresistible, and one of the prettiest Nintendo games on the platform."
"Peak of the SSX series, perfect arcade snowboard. Entire open mountain to explore, spectacular night races, legendary soundtrack. Deep but accessible trick system. The best snow sports game of its generation, full stop."
"Tony Hawk 4 featuring per-level open world mode and character missions. Innovation on the challenge system. Slightly below the third but very solid. The trick list and soundtrack are excellent. A must for franchise fans."
"PES 4 polishes ball touch and spatial reading even further. Football turns into a demanding, almost magical dance on the pad. For many fans, an absolute series peak."
"SSX Tricky pushes the arcade spirit to the very top. Wild characters, crazier tricks and a cult soundtrack with Run-D.M.C. Pure adrenaline on every run, timeless fun."
