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.
"A superb medieval whodunit drawn like an illuminated manuscript and carried by choices that genuinely matter. More a game of reading and reflection than action, it captivates through its scholarship and sixteenth-century monastic atmosphere."
"Forza Motorsport bundle with Xbox Live Arcade included. The automotive simulation reference on original Xbox. Demanding and realistic physics, deep customization, satisfying career. The must-have for car enthusiasts on Xbox."
"An Arc System Works rock and roll 2D versus with an inimitable look. Hits crack, the cast oozes style and the tactical depth is huge. A cult classic of the genre."
"A Double Impact compilation gathering the first two Street Fighter III. Precise controls, an evolving cast and already rare depth. Essential for saga fans."
"A Matching Service edition of SF Zero 3 devoted to online and competitive play. Precise controls, retuned balance and ladder ready experience. For engaged fans."
"The best Smash Bros. before Ultimate. Generous roster, abundant modes, balanced gameplay. One of the best multiplayer party games ever made. Amiibo add a collector dimension. A complete and indispensable home version."
"Arcade Edition adds Yun, Yang, Evil Ryu and Oni to an already solid balance. The system reaches a particularly fine competitive equilibrium, online multi turns seriously competitive, and this is probably the best Street Fighter IV to own on 360 without any hesitation."
"Arc System Works delivers a sumptuous 2D fighter whose stylized 3D mimics hand-drawn art flawlessly. The system is more approachable than past entries without sacrificing depth, and the rollback netcode is exemplary, even on Switch."
"Arc System Works translates the Dragon Ball universe into a spectacular 2D fighter with animation stunningly faithful to the anime. The three-on-three team battles are fast and readable, welcoming to newcomers yet rewarding mastery."
"Call of Duty World at War is the darkest and most brutal WWII CoD. Intense Pacific and Eastern Front campaign, Zombies mode launched here for the first time. Founder of a major saga pillar."
"Gearbox invent the looter shooter on dusty Pandora with cheeky frat-house humour. The first Borderlands feels rough at times but lays down a devilish formula, and farming the perfect rocket launcher with four pals is era-defining bliss."
"Sledgehammer juice Call of Duty back up with the exo-suit and boosted jumps. The Kevin Spacey led campaign owns its blockbuster instincts, multiplayer gains real verticality, and the whole thing is a great unapologetic action ride."
"A cartoon energy bomb in the vein of Wario Land on amphetamines: run, smash, transform the scenery, all at a breakneck pace. The animation bursts everywhere and the scoring pushes you to chain levels without ever easing off."
"A brilliant puzzler whose rules are literally written into the level: push the words around to rewrite what is possible. Every breakthrough feels like a tiny revelation, and the difficulty climbs without ever losing its minimalist elegance."
"A gorgeous island filled with line-tracing panels whose rules are never explained, only deduced through observation. It is a lesson in pure game design, contemplative and fiercely clever, rewarding patience above all."
"A spiritual successor to Limbo, this atmospheric game strips everything down to flight, dread and crisp physics puzzles. Its wordless storytelling and unsettling finale make for a short but unforgettable experience."
"The peak of the F-Zero saga, designed by Sega and Amusement Vision under Nintendo's watch. Mind-bending speed, dizzying tracks and AI hardwired for combat. Brutal difficulty but unmatched arcade racing thrills. Still undethroned today."
"Xbox-exclusive reference automotive simulation, Microsoft's answer to Gran Turismo. Rigorous physics, extensive visual and mechanical customization, extensive career. One of the most technically impressive games of the Xbox generation."
