StrawPoll

The Most Entertaining Video Games, Ranked

Choose the video games you think is the most entertaining!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 2, 2024 06:15
Video games offer endless amusement and challenge, but finding the top picks can be daunting due to the sheer number of options available. By creating a community-driven ranking, users gain a clear and accurate reflection of what titles are currently captivating gamers the most. This method allows for a democratic approach to evaluating the ever-growing library of video games. Each vote cast on this site contributes directly to the live updating of rankings, ensuring that the list remains relevant and reflective of real-time preferences. This continuous input from a wide audience provides a robust snapshot of the gaming landscape, guiding newcomers and veteran gamers alike to make informed choices about where to invest their playtime next.

What Are the Most Entertaining Video Games?

  1. 1
    37
    votes
    The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
    m4mystery from London, United Kingdom · CC BY 2.0

    The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

    Nintendo
    This game is widely regarded as one of the best video games of all time. It offers an open-world experience that allows players to explore a vast landscape and discover new things at every turn. The game's puzzles, combat system, and storyline are all top-notch.
    The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an action-adventure game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch and Wii U consoles. It takes place in an open world setting and follows Link, the main protagonist, as he explores the kingdom of Hyrule.
    • Release Date: March 3, 2017
    • Genre: Action-adventure
    • Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
    • Modes: Single-player
    • Playable Characters: Link
    The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in other rankings
  3. 2
    26
    votes

    Super Mario Odyssey

    Nintendo
    A classic Mario game with a twist. Players control Mario as he travels through various worlds, collecting Power Moons to power his airship. The game's controls are tight, and the graphics are stunning.
    Super Mario Odyssey is a popular platform video game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch console. It takes players on an epic adventure with Mario, the iconic plumber, as he embarks on a journey across various imaginative kingdoms to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. The game presents a combination of exploration, platforming, and puzzle-solving gameplay elements, offering a vibrant and visually stunning open-world experience.
    • Release Date: October 27, 2017
    • Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
    • Genre: Platformer
    • Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
    • Gameplay Perspective: Third-person
    Super Mario Odyssey in other rankings
  4. 3
    23
    votes

    Red Dead Redemption 2

    Rockstar Games
    This game is a masterpiece in terms of storytelling and world-building. It puts players in the shoes of Arthur Morgan, a member of a gang in the Wild West. The game's graphics are stunning, and the characters are well-developed.
    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. 4
    21
    votes

    Dark Souls

    A challenging game that has become a cult classic. Players take on the role of a chosen undead, exploring a dark and dangerous world filled with monsters and other dangers. The game's difficulty is notorious, but its rewarding gameplay keeps players coming back for more.
    Dark Souls in other rankings
  6. 5
    21
    votes
    Grand Theft Auto V
    DanTD · CC BY-SA 3.0

    Grand Theft Auto V

    Rockstar North
    The fifth installment in the Grand Theft Auto series is one of the most popular video games of all time. Players control three different characters in a fictional version of Los Angeles. The game's open-world gameplay, storyline, and humor have all contributed to its success.
    Grand Theft Auto V is an action-adventure video game set in an open-world environment. It is the fifteenth installment in the Grand Theft Auto series developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games. The game takes place in the fictional city of Los Santos and its surrounding areas.
    • Genre: Action-adventure
    • Platform: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
    • Release Date: September 17, 2013
    • Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
    • Setting: Open-world environment
    Grand Theft Auto V in other rankings
  7. 6
    6
    votes

    Minecraft

    A game that has taken the world by storm. Players can build, explore, and survive in a blocky world filled with monsters and treasures. The game's simplicity and creativity have made it a favorite among gamers of all ages.
    Minecraft is a sandbox video game that allows players to build and explore virtual worlds made up of blocks. It offers various game modes such as survival, creative, adventure, and spectator, giving players the freedom to play and create in their own style. With its pixelated graphics and endless possibilities, Minecraft has become a popular game across different age groups and has sparked a large community of dedicated players and creators.
    • Platform: Multiple platforms including PC, consoles, and mobile devices
    • Genre: Sandbox, survival, adventure
    • Multiplayer: Available for online multiplayer with friends
    • Game Modes: Survival, creative, adventure, spectator
    • World Size: Virtually infinite, procedurally generated worlds
  8. 7
    10
    votes

    Overwatch

    A team-based shooter that has become one of the most popular esports games. Players control heroes with unique abilities, working together to complete objectives and defeat the other team. The game's fast-paced action and diverse roster of characters make it an entertaining and competitive experience.
    Overwatch is a team-based multiplayer first-person shooter video game. It features a diverse cast of characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles, and encourages teamwork and strategy to achieve objectives. The game is set in a futuristic world and offers a variety of game modes, including competitive and casual play.
    • Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Windows
    • Release Date: May 24, 2016
    • Game Modes: Assault, Escort, Control, Hybrid
    • Number of Heroes: 32
    • Team Size: 6 players
  9. 8
    5
    votes

    Fortnite

    A game that has become a cultural phenomenon. Players fight to be the last person standing in a Battle Royale style game. The game's colorful graphics, unique building mechanic, and frequent updates have all contributed to its success.
    Fortnite is a massively popular online battle royale game that was developed and published by Epic Games. It was first released in 2017 and quickly gained a huge player base due to its unique combination of building mechanics, third-person shooting, and fast-paced gameplay. In Fortnite, players are dropped onto an island and must gather resources, build structures, and eliminate opponents to be the last person standing. The game features colorful graphics, a wide variety of weapons and items, and regular content updates to keep the gameplay fresh and exciting.
    • Platforms: Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
    • Game Mode: Online multiplayer
    • Genre: Battle royale, sandbox, survival
    • Release Date: July 25, 2017
    • Player Count: Up to 100 players per match
  10. 9
    14
    votes

    Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

    Masahiro Sakurai
    A fighting game that brings together characters from various video game franchises. Players can battle it out with their favorite characters, both online and offline. The game's fun gameplay and fan service make it a hit with both casual and competitive gamers.
    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
  11. 10
    5
    votes

    The Sims 4

    Maxis
    A game that allows players to create and control their own virtual people, known as Sims. The game's open-ended gameplay allows players to create their own stories and scenarios. The game's colorful graphics and quirky humor make it a fun and entertaining experience.
    The Sims 4 is a popular life simulation video game where players create and control virtual characters called Sims. Developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts, it offers an immersive sandbox experience allowing players to customize every aspect of their Sims' lives.
    • Genre: Life simulation
    • Release Date: September 2, 2014
    • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
    • Modes: Single-player
    • Customization: Extensive character and house customization options
    The Sims 4 in other rankings

Missing your favorite video games?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for entertaining video games

  1. Gameplay
    The game should have engaging mechanics, controls, and systems that keep players entertained and wanting to play more. A good gameplay experience should be challenging yet rewarding, allowing for different playstyles and strategic choices.
  2. Story and Theme
    A captivating story and well-developed game world can significantly enhance the overall entertainment value of a game. The game should have a compelling narrative, relatable characters, and interesting themes that draw the player in and make them care about the game world.
  3. Graphics and Visuals
    High-quality graphics and art design can greatly impact the overall entertainment value of a game. The game should have a visually pleasing art style, engaging animations, and detailed environments that help create an immersive experience for the player.
  4. Sound and Music
    A game's sound design and soundtrack can greatly enhance the entertainment value of the game. The game should have well-composed music, fitting sound effects, and high-quality voice acting that contributes to the overall experience.
  5. Replayability and Longevity
    A game that offers different experiences each time it's played can be more entertaining than one with a single linear path. The game should have multiple game modes, branching storylines, or procedural content generation that encourages replayability and keeps the player interested.
  6. Multiplayer and Social Features
    Online multiplayer or local co-op options can make a game more entertaining as players can compete against or cooperate with others. Social features such as leaderboards, in-game chat, and shared content creation can also enhance the overall experience.
  7. Accessibility and User Experience
    A game should be easy to pick up and play, with intuitive controls and user interfaces. Tutorials, difficulty options, and clear in-game instructions can make a game more enjoyable for a broader audience.
  8. Innovation and Originality
    Games that bring new ideas or gameplay mechanics to the table can be more entertaining than those that simply rehash existing concepts. Innovative game design can create new experiences for players and keep them engaged for longer periods.
  9. Value for Money
    The cost of the game should be consistent with the entertainment value it provides. A game with a high price tag should offer a significant amount of content and gameplay depth that justifies the investment.
  10. Overall Polish and Performance
    A game should be well-polished and free of technical issues that could diminish its entertainment value. Proper optimization, bug fixes, and regular updates can help ensure a game remains enjoyable for the long term.

About this ranking

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

Statistics

  • 2199 views
  • 165 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

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

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More information on most entertaining video games

Video games have come a long way since the days of Pong and Space Invaders. Today's games are highly immersive experiences that transport players to new worlds and challenge them in a variety of ways. From high-speed action games to cerebral puzzle solvers, the world of video games is vast and varied, offering something for every type of player. But what makes a video game truly entertaining? Is it the graphics, the storyline, the gameplay mechanics, or some combination of all three? The answer may vary depending on who you ask, but there are a few games that consistently rise to the top of the list when it comes to pure entertainment value. Some of the most entertaining video games out there are those that offer a unique and immersive world for players to explore. Games like Skyrim, The Witcher 3, and Red Dead Redemption 2 transport players to fully-realized virtual worlds that are teeming with life and adventure. Other games prioritize fast-paced action and thrilling gameplay mechanics. Titles like Doom, Halo, and Call of Duty offer heart-pumping action and intense multiplayer battles that keep players on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, what makes a video game entertaining is highly subjective. Some players crave a deep and engaging storyline, while others prefer the rush of adrenaline that comes from fast-paced action. Whatever your preference, there's no denying that video games offer a unique and exciting form of entertainment that can be enjoyed by gamers of all ages and skill levels.

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