The Most Anticipated Game of All Time, Ranked

Choose the game you think is the most anticipated!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 2, 2024 06:17
Anticipation builds in the hearts of gamers as they await the release of new titles that promise to captivate and inspire. With so many games vying for attention, it becomes crucial to sift through the noise and spotlight those truly worth waiting for. A definitive ranking, voted on by the gaming community, serves to highlight these standout games, ensuring that the most eagerly awaited titles are recognized and celebrated. This participatory method not only empowers gamers to influence the rankings but also provides an aggregate insight into what the community deems most promising. Each vote cast is a token of expectation and interest, and by contributing to this dynamic list, users help paint a clear picture of the gaming landscape's future. Such rankings are not merely lists but are reflections of collective excitement and anticipation.

What Is the Most Anticipated Game of All Time?

  1. 1
    74
    votes

    Half-Life 3

    Valve Corporation
    The Half-Life series is one of the most iconic and influential franchises in gaming history, and its unfinished story has left fans eagerly anticipating the release of Half-Life 3 for over a decade. Despite numerous rumors and teases, the game has yet to be officially announced.
    Half-Life 3 is a highly anticipated first-person shooter video game that serves as the continuation of the Half-Life series. It is set in a dystopian world where players assume the role of Gordon Freeman, a theoretical physicist who must fight against various alien and human enemies. The game offers an exciting narrative, innovative gameplay mechanics, and advanced graphics.
    • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox
    • Genre: First-person shooter
    • Engine: Source 2
    • Single-player: Yes
    • Multiplayer: Yes
  2. 2
    45
    votes

    The Elder Scrolls VI

    Bethesda Game Studios
    The Elder Scrolls series is beloved by RPG fans for its vast, immersive worlds and deep lore. The announcement of a new entry in the series always generates excitement, and with the success of Skyrim, anticipation for The Elder Scrolls VI is at an all-time high.
    The Elder Scrolls VI is an upcoming open-world action role-playing game (RPG) developed by Bethesda Game Studios. It is the sixth main installment in The Elder Scrolls series, following the highly successful game The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. The game is set in the fantastical world of Tamriel, offering players a vast and immersive experience as they explore a richly detailed open world, encounter various factions and creatures, embark on epic quests, and shape their own destiny.
    • Genre: Action role-playing (RPG)
    • Platform: To be announced
    • Release Date: To be announced
    • World: Tamriel
    • Open World: Yes
  3. 3
    22
    votes

    Cyberpunk 2077

    CD Projekt
    Developed by CD Projekt Red, the creators of the acclaimed Witcher series, Cyberpunk 2077 promises to be one of the most ambitious and immersive RPGs ever made. With its stunning visuals, deep customization options, and immersive open world, it's no wonder that fans have been eagerly awaiting its release.
    Cyberpunk 2077 is a highly anticipated open-world action role-playing game set in the dystopian future of Night City, where players assume the role of V, a mercenary outlaw on a quest for immortality. The game is known for its immersive and detailed world, branching storylines, and gritty cyberpunk aesthetic.
    • Setting: Dystopian future
    • Main Character: V
    • Genre: Action role-playing, Open-world
    • Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Stadia
    • Release Date: December 10, 2020
    Cyberpunk 2077 in other rankings
  4. 4
    6
    votes

    Red Dead Redemption 2

    Rockstar Games
    The original Red Dead Redemption was a critical and commercial success, and anticipation for its sequel has been high ever since it was announced. With its immersive open world, compelling story, and stunning visuals, Red Dead Redemption 2 delivers on all fronts.
    Red Dead Redemption 2 is an action-adventure video game set in an open world environment. It takes place in 1899, during the decline of the Wild West, and follows the story of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw and member of the Van der Linde gang.
    • Genre: Action-adventure
    • Release Date: October 26, 2018
    • Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
    • Game Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
    • Engine: Rockstar Advanced Game Engine (RAGE)
    Red Dead Redemption 2 in other rankings
  5. 5
    14
    votes

    Halo Infinite

    343 Industries
    The Halo series is one of the most iconic and influential franchises in gaming history, and the announcement of a new entry in the series always generates excitement. With its stunning visuals, immersive gameplay, and deep lore, Halo Infinite promises to be one of the best entries in the series yet.
    Halo Infinite is an upcoming first-person shooter game developed by 343 Industries and published by Xbox Game Studios. It is the sixth main entry in the Halo series and serves as a direct sequel to Halo 5: Guardians. The game continues the story of the iconic Master Chief as he faces new challenges and explores a vast and stunning open-world environment on the Halo ring. With a focus on delivering an epic sci-fi experience, Halo Infinite aims to captivate both new and longtime fans of the franchise.
    • Genre: First-person shooter
    • Platform(s): Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
    • Release Date: 2021 (TBA)
    • Engine: Slipspace Engine
    • Game Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
    Halo Infinite in other rankings
  6. 6
    15
    votes
    The Last of Us was a critical and commercial success, and its sequel promises to be even better. With its emotional story, compelling characters, and stunning visuals, The Last of Us Part II is one of the most anticipated games of all time.
    The Last of Us Part II is an action-adventure game set in a post-apocalyptic world infested with infected creatures. It follows the story of Ellie, a teenage girl who embarks on a quest for revenge.
    • Genre: Action-Adventure
    • Platform: PlayStation 4
    • Release Date: June 19, 2020
    • Developer: Naughty Dog
    • Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
    The Last of Us Part II in other rankings
  7. 7
    6
    votes
    Final Fantasy VII Remake
    Manuelt15 · Public domain
    Final Fantasy VII is widely regarded as one of the best RPGs ever made, and its long-awaited remake has been eagerly anticipated by fans for years. With its stunning visuals, updated gameplay, and faithful retelling of the original story, Final Fantasy VII Remake is a must-play for fans of the series.
    Final Fantasy VII Remake is a highly anticipated video game, which is a modern reimagining of the classic RPG game, Final Fantasy VII, released in 1997. It transports players to the dystopian city of Midgar, where they follow the story of Cloud Strife and his companions as they battle against the powerful Shinra corporation and its destructive experiments. With stunning visuals, an enhanced combat system, and expanded storytelling, it aims to deliver a captivating experience for both longtime fans and new players.
    • Platform: PlayStation 4 (with future releases for PlayStation 5 and PC)
    • Genre: Role-playing game
    • Single-Player: Yes
    • Multiplayer: No
    • Release Date: April 10, 2020
    Final Fantasy VII Remake in other rankings
  8. 8
    13
    votes

    Starcraft II

    Blizzard Entertainment
    The original Starcraft is one of the most iconic and influential RTS games ever made, and its sequel, Starcraft II, was one of the most anticipated games of all time. With its deep strategy gameplay, immersive story, and stunning visuals, Starcraft II is a must-play for fans of the genre.
    Starcraft II is a real-time strategy game developed by Blizzard Entertainment. It is the highly anticipated sequel to the original Starcraft, released in 1998. Set in a futuristic sci-fi universe, the game features three distinct factions, the human Terrans, the insectoid Zerg, and the advanced alien Protoss, each with their own unique units and strategies. Starcraft II offers both single-player and multiplayer modes, with a deep and engrossing storyline in the campaign. It has become a popular e-sport with professional tournaments and a dedicated fan base worldwide.
    • Genre: Real-time Strategy
    • Platforms: PC, Mac
    • Release Date: July 27, 2010
    • Modes: Single-player, Multiplayer
    • Factions: Terrans, Zerg, Protoss
    Starcraft II in other rankings
  9. 9
    8
    votes

    World of Warcraft

    Blizzard Entertainment
    World of Warcraft is one of the most popular and influential MMORPGs ever made, and its release was highly anticipated by fans of the Warcraft series. With its immersive world, deep lore, and addictive gameplay, World of Warcraft is still going strong over a decade after its initial release.
    World of Warcraft is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment. It is set in the Warcraft fantasy universe, where players assume the roles of various characters to explore and interact within the virtual world. With a rich lore, immersive storylines, and intense gameplay, it has become one of the most iconic and influential MMO games of all time.
    • Release Date: November 23, 2004
    • Platforms: Windows, macOS
    • Game Genre: MMORPG
    • Player Capacity: Up to millions of simultaneous players
    • Expansions: 8 main expansions and multiple smaller content updates
    World of Warcraft in other rankings
  10. 10
    3
    votes

    Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

    Masahiro Sakurai
    The Super Smash Bros. series is one of the most beloved and iconic fighting game franchises ever made, and its latest entry, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, was one of the most anticipated games of all time. With its massive roster of characters, addictive gameplay, and stunning visuals, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a must-play for fans of the series.
    Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a crossover fighting video game developed by Bandai Namco Studios and Sora Ltd. It features characters from various Nintendo franchises and other third-party games, engaging players in a fast-paced and chaotic multiplayer battle. The game offers a wide range of modes, from classic multiplayer matches to a comprehensive single-player campaign, making it a highly entertaining and versatile gaming experience.
    • Platform: Nintendo Switch
    • Release Date: December 7, 2018
    • Number of Playable Characters: 80+
    • Game Modes: Single-player, Multiplayer
    • Max Players: 8
    Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in other rankings

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Ranking factors for anticipated game

  1. Historical context
    Consider the significance of the game in the industry, whether it belongs to a long-standing and beloved franchise, or if it's breaking new ground with unique gameplay.
  2. Pre-release hype
    Look at the buzz and excitement generated before the game's release, including marketing campaigns, announcements, and community reaction.
  3. Developer reputation
    The game's developer has a profound impact on anticipation. Renowned and experienced developers with a history of producing quality games will create more anticipation for their new projects.
  4. Genre and gameplay innovation
    Evaluate the game's genre and how it aligns with current trends and market demands. Innovative gameplay mechanics can substantially increase anticipation, especially if they promise a new or unique experience.
  5. Graphical and audio presentation
    High-quality graphics and audio can enhance anticipation, as players look forward to the full experience they'll receive in the game.
  6. Technology
    Game launches that coincide with the release of new hardware platforms or have cutting-edge technology can also boost anticipation levels, as players are eager to experience the latest advancements in gaming.
  7. Story and world-building
    A well-built narrative and immersive world can significantly increase anticipation, especially if the game is part of a series with a strong existing storyline.
  8. Reviews and previews
    Positive early impressions from reviewers, game journalists, and influencers can raise anticipation levels as players trust their opinions and insight.
  9. Awards and nominations
    Winning pre-release awards (such as E3 or other industry events) can increase anticipation for a game by validating its quality and generating buzz.
  10. Community involvement
    Developers that have a strong and open relationship with their gaming community or involve them in the development process can help build anticipation for their game through word-of-mouth, feedback, and a sense of ownership.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most anticipated game of all time. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or game is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 5095 views
  • 194 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each game once every 24 hours. The rank of each game is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most anticipated game of all time

The gaming industry has always been a hotbed of excitement and anticipation, with players eagerly awaiting the release of their favorite titles. From classic arcade games to modern-day blockbusters, the world of gaming has seen its fair share of highly anticipated titles. But what is the most anticipated game of all time? This question has sparked countless debates and discussions among gamers worldwide, with everyone having their own opinion on the matter. As we explore this topic further, let's take a look at some of the most highly anticipated games in the history of gaming, and try to determine which title truly deserves the title of "most anticipated game of all time."

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