It’s no secret that the popularity of video games has skyrocketed, with sales figures now eclipsing those of any other entertainment medium. In fact, when it comes to revenue generated upon release, games are on par with blockbuster films.
However, this is where the comparison between these two forms of entertainment diverges. The booming sales of video games have completely debunked the stereotype that gaming is merely a pastime for children.
Yet, a perennial inquiry persists within the industry: which titles hold the distinction of being the best-selling games in history?
Best-Selling Video Games of All Time
1. Tetris – 425 million
Considered one of the most enduring video games in history, Tetris proudly ranks among the best-selling games of all time, boasting an impressive 520 million units sold, as reported by The Tetris Company.
This figure encompasses sales from various platforms, with mobile downloads accounting for a significant portion—425 million paid mobile downloads were recorded by 2014, according to Henk Rogers, the managing director of The Tetris Company.
Tetris made its debut on the Elektronika 60 computer, which was developed in the Soviet Union. Since then, this iconic puzzle game has been adapted for more than 50 different platforms. It played a key role in popularizing the Game Boy, ultimately achieving remarkable sales of 35 million copies on Nintendo’s portable gaming device.
2. Minecraft – 300 million
As of October 2023, Minecraft has reached an impressive milestone of over 300 million copies sold, as reported by Mojang during this year’s Minecraft Live event (according to Windows Central). This total encompasses sales across various platforms where the game is available.
Beyond gaming, Minecraft has expanded into numerous ventures, including films, a Netflix series, educational initiatives, and toys, solidifying its status as one of the best selling games in history.
3. Grand Theft Auto V – 195 million
It was inevitable that Grand Theft Auto V would make its way onto this list of best selling games. Released in 2013, Rockstar’s iconic open-world action title has continued to captivate players, consistently selling millions of copies every few months.
This impressive achievement has pushed its total sales to over 195 million copies and still counting. Initially available on Xbox 360 and PS3, the game later expanded to Xbox One, PS4, and PC, before receiving enhancements for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
In addition to impressive sales figures, the game generates significant revenue from its immensely popular GTA Online multiplayer feature. The 195 million copies sold do not even account for the numerous players who experienced GTA 5 while it was featured on Xbox Game Pass. Financially, it stands as the most lucrative entertainment product ever. It’s no surprise that Rockstar is currently working on a new installment, with GTA 6 set to launch in 2025.
4. Wii Sports – 82.9 million
The initial release of Wii Sports was bundled with the Nintendo Wii console, contributing significantly to its impressive sales figures. This bundled approach likely boosted its popularity beyond what it would have achieved on its own. According to Nintendo’s most recent data, Wii Sports has sold a staggering 82.9 million copies, making it one of the best-selling games in history.
For many gamers, this title served as the initial experience with the Wii’s groundbreaking motion control technology. It was truly astonishing to swing the Wii Remote and witness that action mirrored on-screen, whether executing a tennis shot or rolling a bowling ball down the lane.
In 2009, a follow-up titled Wii Sports Resort was launched, introducing additional activities such as frisbee and basketball. Later, the Nintendo Switch saw the release of a successor known as Nintendo Switch Sports, continuing the legacy of engaging gameplay and innovative controls.
5. PUBG Battlegrounds – 75 million
Considering its significant influence on the surge of battle royale games in recent years, it’s no shock that PUBG has achieved remarkable sales figures. According to Dave Curd, the creative director at Krafton, PUBG reached an impressive total of 75 million copies sold by December 2021.
This number may remain unchanged, especially since the game transitioned to a free-to-play model in January 2022. Although free downloads on mobile don’t contribute to the overall sales count, it’s important to highlight that PUBG Mobile had surpassed 1 billion downloads by March 2021.
The game’s impact on the genre cannot be overstated, as it has set a standard for player engagement and gameplay mechanics that many competitors have sought to emulate. As the battle royale phenomenon continues to thrive, PUBG remains a pivotal player in shaping the landscape of online gaming.
6. Mario Kart 8 + Deluxe – 64 million
As of June 30, 2023, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has achieved remarkable sales, surpassing 55 million copies, making it the best-selling game on the Nintendo Switch. When including the sales from its original release on the Wii U, the total climbs to nearly 64 million copies, placing it as the sixth-best-selling game in history. It appears that MK8 may not ascend further in the rankings due to an 11-million-unit sales gap separating it from the game in the fifth position.
7. Red Dead Redemption 2 – 61 million
Rockstar Games boasts two titles among the top 10 best-selling games ever, with the first being the acclaimed 2018 western adventure, Red Dead Redemption II, which has sold an impressive 61 million copies.
This prequel to the 2010 hit, Red Dead Redemption, was highly anticipated, with fans eagerly awaiting its release for nearly ten years. Set against the backdrop of the expansive American West in 1899, the game delves into the backstory of key events that precede the original title. Although its online component, Red Dead Online, didn’t achieve the same level of success as GTA Online, the game as a whole still recorded remarkable sales figures.
8. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – 60 million
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim made its debut in 2011 and quickly became one of the best selling games of its time. Developed by Bethesda Game Studios, it achieved remarkable success upon release and has maintained impressive sales over the years.
The game’s widespread presence in gaming culture has even turned it into a meme. It has been adapted for nearly every gaming platform available, and game director Todd Howard has shared insights into this phenomenon.
9. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – 50 million
CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has elevated the franchise to unprecedented levels, achieving remarkable sales of 50 million copies across various platforms. Launched in 2015, this game captured the hearts of players immediately and has seen its popularity soar ever since.
Although it frequently goes on sale at significantly reduced prices, this does not diminish its impressive sales figures. The success of the game was further bolstered by the release of the Netflix adaptation, which drew even more attention to the series. In total, the Witcher franchise has sold 75 million units, with Witcher 3 accounting for a substantial portion of that figure, making it the standout title in the lineup.
Following the debut of The Witcher series on Netflix in 2020, the sales of Witcher 3 skyrocketed by an impressive 500%. Subsequently, CD Projekt Red launched Cyberpunk 2077. Although the game initially faced criticism from players, it has made significant improvements and is now performing well in the market. Currently, the development of Witcher 4 is underway, and it will leverage the capabilities of Unreal Engine 5.
10. Super Mario Bros. – 50 million (pack-in sales included)
Super Mario Bros. has achieved remarkable success, with 50 million copies sold, including those bundled with consoles.
The classic Super Mario Bros. for the NES, launched in 1985, ranks among the Best Selling Games with an impressive sales figure of 50 million copies. Although it wasn’t Mario’s debut in the gaming world, Super Mario Bros. continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many, and its remarkable success played a crucial role in elevating the Mario franchise.
The game’s levels, soundtrack, and adversaries are all legendary. A multitude of Mario titles have since been released, with the newest addition, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, set to debut on the Nintendo Switch in October 2023.
11. Overwatch – 50 million
According to a Bloomberg report from April 2022, Blizzard’s popular hero shooter, Overwatch, achieved impressive sales of 50 million copies. This game significantly advanced the hero shooter genre through its exceptional game mechanics, well-developed characters, and ongoing support for esports.
In October 2022, Overwatch transitioned to a free-to-play model with the release of its sequel, Overwatch 2, continuing its legacy among the best-selling games in the market today.
12. Pokemon Red, Green, Blue, Yellow – 47 Million
Pokemon Red, Green, Blue, and Yellow are the first generation video games in the Pokemon franchise, released by Nintendo in the late 1990s.
These games are set in the fictional world of Kanto and follow the journey of a young Pokemon Trainer who aims to become a Pokemon Master.
13. Animal Crossing: New Horizons – 45 million
Animal Crossing: New Horizons, released in March 2020 for the Nintendo Switch, has achieved remarkable success, selling over 45 million copies worldwide. This charming life simulation game captivated players with its open-ended gameplay, allowing them to create and customize their own islands while interacting with adorable anthropomorphic animal characters.
The game’s timing during the COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in its popularity, as many people turned to it for a sense of community and escape during lockdowns. Its vibrant graphics, soothing soundtrack, and regular updates, which introduced new features and seasonal events, kept players engaged long after its launch.
The combination of social interaction, creativity, and relaxation has solidified “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” as a cultural phenomenon and one of the best-selling games in Nintendo’s history.
14. Terraria – 44 million
Terraria, the beloved sandbox adventure game developed by Re-Logic, has achieved remarkable commercial success, selling over 44 million copies worldwide. Since its initial release in 2011, Terraria has captivated players with its blend of exploration, crafting, building, and combat in a procedurally generated 2D world.
The game’s rich content, expansive biomes, and diverse creatures encourage creativity and discovery, allowing players to shape their unique experiences. Continuous updates and expansions have further enriched the gameplay, introducing new items, enemies, and mechanics that keep the community engaged.
The game’s success is a testament to its enduring appeal and the dedication of its developers, solidifying Terraria’s place as a classic in the gaming landscape.
15. Pac-Man – 42 Million
Pac-Man, the iconic arcade game released in 1980, has achieved remarkable success, selling over 42 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling video games of all time. Developed by Namco, Pac-Man revolutionized the gaming industry with its unique maze-chase gameplay, where players navigate a yellow, circular character through a labyrinth while consuming pellets and avoiding colorful ghosts.
The game’s innovative design and appealing graphics captivated a diverse audience, leading to its widespread popularity beyond traditional gaming circles. Pac-Man’s cultural impact is undeniable, spawning merchandise, spin-offs, and even television shows, solidifying its status as a beloved classic. The enduring legacy of Pac-Man continues to influence game design and popular culture, ensuring its place in gaming history for generations to come.
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source: Gamerode