Video game franchises are not just a series of games. They are cultural phenomena that capture our imaginations, bring people together, and change entertainment. Many of these franchises are considered some of the greatest video games of all time. Here are the top 15 video game franchises that have made a lasting impact on the gaming world and our lives.
How Sales Figures Determine Success
When we talk about the “best” video game franchises of all time, sales figures are one of the most reliable ways to measure their popularity. Here’s a look at the top 15 best-selling video game franchises and a glimpse into why they’ve captivated players across generations.
Top 15 Best-Selling Video Game Franchises of All Time
| Franchise | Estimated Total Sales (Units) | Publisher(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Mario | 765+ million | Nintendo |
| Pokémon | 480+ million | Nintendo / The Pokémon Company |
| Tetris | 500+ million | Multiple |
| Call of Duty | 425+ million | Activision |
| Grand Theft Auto | 405+ million | Rockstar Games |
| FIFA | 325+ million | EA Sports |
| Minecraft | 300+ million | Mojang Studios |
| Lego | 200+ million | TT Games |
| The Sims | 200+ million | EA |
| Assassin’s Creed | 200+ million | Ubisoft |
| Wii Series | 145+ million | Nintendo |
| Final Fantasy | 173+ million | Square Enix |
| Resident Evil | 140+ million | Capcom |
| Monster Hunter | 90+ million | Capcom |
| Sonic the Hedgehog | 90+ million | Sega |
What Makes a Franchise a Mega-Success?
Several factors contribute to the incredible success of these franchises:
- Iconic Characters: From Mario and Pikachu to Master Chief and Lara Croft, many top franchises feature memorable characters that players love.
- Engaging Gameplay: The best franchises offer fun, challenging, and innovative gameplay that keeps players hooked for hours.
- Accessibility: Popular franchises often appeal to a broad range of players, regardless of skill level or age.
- Brand Recognition: Successful franchises build a strong brand that players recognize through clever marketing and consistent quality.
These are just a few of the elements that help cement a video game franchise’s place in gaming history. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and captivating franchises emerge in the years to come.
Top 15 Best-Rated Video Game Franchises of All Time
| Franchise | Release Date(s) | Consoles | Developer/Publisher | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mario | 1981 – Present | Nintendo & various | Nintendo | Platformers, Puzzle, Racing |
| The Legend of Zelda | 1986 – Present | Nintendo & various | Nintendo | Action-Adventure |
| Grand Theft Auto | 1997 – Present | PlayStation, Xbox, PC | Rockstar Games | Open-World Action-Adventure |
| Final Fantasy | 1987 – Present | PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo & various | Square Enix | Role-Playing |
| Metal Gear Solid | 1987 – Present | PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo & various | Konami | Stealth Action-Adventure |
| Resident Evil | 1996 – Present | PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo & various | Capcom | Survival Horror |
| Half-Life | 1998 – Present | PC | Valve | First-Person Shooter |
| Halo | 2001 – Present | Xbox, PC | Microsoft Studios | First-Person Shooter |
| Portal | 2007 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | Valve | Puzzle-Platformer |
| Red Dead Redemption | 2004 – Present | PlayStation, Xbox, PC | Rockstar Games | Open-World Action-Adventure |
| Pokémon | 1996 – Present | Nintendo & various | Nintendo | Role-Playing, Simulation |
| The Elder Scrolls | 1994 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | Bethesda Game Studios | Action Role-Playing |
| Metroid | 1986 – Present | Nintendo & various | Nintendo | Action-Adventure, Platformer |
| Uncharted | 2007 – Present | PlayStation | Naughty Dog | Action-Adventure |
| God of War | 2005 – Present | PlayStation | Santa Monica Studio | Action-Adventure |
A Look At The Titles
1. Mario
Nintendo’s iconic plumber has been jumping into our hearts since the 1980s. From ‘Super Mario Bros.’ to ‘Mario Kart’, this franchise is synonymous with gaming itself, boasting an array of genres and unforgettable experiences.
The brainchild of Shigeru Miyamoto, the Mario franchise is the epitome of family-friendly gaming. Since its debut in 1985 with Donkey Kong, Mario has starred in countless platformers, puzzle games, and kart racers, becoming a global icon recognized by people of all ages.
2. The Legend of Zelda
A cornerstone of adventure gaming, ‘The Legend of Zelda’ combines exploration, action, and puzzle-solving in rich, immersive worlds. Each entry is a masterpiece in its own right, from ‘Ocarina of Time’ to ‘Breath of the Wild’.
Another Nintendo masterpiece, The Legend of Zelda, has enchanted players with its blend of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving. From the expansive landscapes of Hyrule to the enigmatic hero Link, the series has captivated audiences with its immersive storytelling and timeless gameplay.
3. Grand Theft Auto
Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto franchise has redefined open-world gaming, offering players a vast sandbox to explore and a plethora of activities to engage in. From the adrenaline-fueled heists to the satirical social commentary, the series has pushed the boundaries of content and gameplay.
Known for its open-world design, satirical take on American culture, and groundbreaking gameplay, each title pushes boundaries in storytelling and player freedom.
4. Final Fantasy
Square Enix’s Final Fantasy series is a landmark in RPG gaming, captivating players with its intricate storylines, memorable characters, and innovative battle systems. Each installment has introduced new worlds, characters, and gameplay mechanics, making it a beloved franchise among RPG enthusiasts.
This series has defined a genre with its intricate stories, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay. From the epic ‘Final Fantasy VII’ to the online world of ‘Final Fantasy XIV’, it’s a franchise that continually evolves.
5. Metal Gear Solid
Hideo Kojima’s Metal Gear Solid franchise has redefined the stealth genre, blending action, espionage, and thought-provoking narratives. The series has introduced iconic characters like Solid Snake and Big Boss, while exploring themes of war, technology, and the nature of humanity.
A staple in gaming. Known for its cinematic presentation and philosophical themes, it’s a series that challenges and entertains.
6. Resident Evil
Capcom’s Resident Evil franchise has set the standard for survival horror gaming, immersing players in terrifying environments filled with zombies, mutants, and other bio-weapons. The series has mastered the art of suspense, creating a truly unnerving gaming experience.
Pioneering the survival horror genre, ‘Resident Evil’ terrifies and captivates with its tense gameplay, horrifying creatures, and gripping stories. It’s a franchise that continually reinvents itself, as seen in ‘Resident Evil 7’ and ‘Village’.
7. Half-Life
Valve’s Half-Life franchise is a landmark in first-person shooter gaming, renowned for its groundbreaking story, immersive world-building, and memorable characters. The series has revolutionized the FPS genre, influencing countless titles that followed.
Combining shooting, puzzles, and storytelling in a way few games have ever achieved – both ‘Half-Life’ and ‘Half-Life 2’ are seminal titles that have influenced countless other games.
8. Halo
Microsoft’s Halo franchise is a pillar of console gaming, introducing players to the iconic Master Chief and the vast universe of the Covenant. The series has redefined first-person shooter gameplay, combining thrilling combat with epic sci-fi storytelling.
This franchise redefined first-person shooters on consoles, with its epic sci-fi storyline, iconic Master Chief character, and revolutionary multiplayer modes. ‘Halo’ is a cultural icon in the gaming world.
9. Portal
Valve’s Portal franchise has redefined puzzle-platform gaming, blending clever mechanics with dark humor and a captivating narrative. The series has introduced the iconic characters of Chell and GLaDOS, while challenging players with mind-bending puzzles and a unique sense of humor.
A testament to innovative game design, ‘Portal’ and its sequel blend mind-bending puzzles with a darkly humorous story. It’s a compact, yet profound experience that leaves a lasting impression.
10. Red Dead Redemption
Rockstar Games’ Red Dead Redemption franchise has redefined the open-world action-adventure genre, transporting players to the Wild West with stunning visuals, engaging characters, and a captivating story. The series has captured the essence of the frontier, blending thrilling action with a touch of Western mystique.
This series has delivered some of the most compelling narratives and immersive open-world experiences. Both games in the series are praised for their storytelling, gameplay, and attention to detail.
11. Pokemon
Nintendo’s Pokemon franchise is a global phenomenon, capturing the hearts of children and adults alike. The series has revolutionized the concept of collecting and battling creatures, creating a vast universe of Pokemon to discover and a rich mythology to explore.
‘Pokemon’ is a cultural phenomenon. With its simple yet deep gameplay, the series has evolved across generations, expanding into every medium imaginable.
12. The Elder Scrolls
Bethesda’s The Elder Scrolls franchise has defined the open-world RPG genre, offering players vast landscapes to explore, countless quests to embark on, and a deep lore to delve into. The series has redefined freedom in gaming, allowing players to forge their own paths and shape their own destinies.
Known for its expansive open worlds, rich lore, and freedom of choice, ‘The Elder Scrolls’ series, especially ‘Skyrim’, has set the standard for open-world RPGs.
13. Metroid
Nintendo’s Metroid franchise is a pioneer in action-adventure gaming, blending exploration, puzzle-solving, and a unique sense of atmosphere. The series has introduced iconic characters like Samus Aran and the haunting Metroid creatures, creating a truly memorable gaming experience.
A pioneer of the action-adventure genre, ‘Metroid’ combines exploration, platforming, and shooting in unique sci-fi settings. It’s a series known for atmospheric worlds and strong, silent protagonist.
14. Uncharted
Naughty Dog’s Uncharted franchise has redefined cinematic storytelling in video games, combining thrilling action sequences with a captivating narrative and memorable characters. The series has set a new standard for adventure gaming, taking players on globetrotting adventures filled with treasure hunting and danger.
Renowned for its cinematic storytelling, likable characters, and thrilling set pieces – each ‘Uncharted’ game is a blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and action.
15. God of War
Santa Monica Studio’s God of War franchise has redefined action-adventure gaming, combining brutal combat, epic storytelling, and a unique blend of mythology and modern storytelling. The series has introduced the iconic Kratos, a complex and
This series has evolved from a brutal hack-and-slash into a narrative-driven journey. The latest ‘God of War’ titles not only provide thrilling combat but also a profound story of fatherhood and change.
Honorable Mention
These franchises have changed the world in their own ways, from fighting games to action and first person shooters. You’ll see a lot of your favorites on this list as well:
| Franchise | Release Date(s) | Consoles | Developer/Publisher | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Castlevania | 1986 – Present | Nintendo & various | Konami | Action-Platformer |
| Sonic the Hedgehog | 1991 – Present | Sega & various | Sega | Platformer |
| Street Fighter | 1987 – Present | Arcade, various | Capcom | Fighting |
| Assassin’s Creed | 2007 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | Ubisoft | Action-Adventure |
| Call of Duty | 2003 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | Activision | First-Person Shooter |
| Mass Effect | 2007 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | BioWare | Action Role-Playing |
| Dark Souls | 2011 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | FromSoftware | Action Role-Playing |
| Minecraft | 2009 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo & various | Mojang Studios | Sandbox |
| The Last of Us | 2013 – Present | PlayStation | Naughty Dog | Action-Adventure |
| The Witcher | 2007 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | CD Projekt RED | Action Role-Playing |
| Forza Horizon | 2012 – Present | Xbox PC | Turn 10 Studios | Racing |
| Gears of War | 2006 – Present | Xbox PC | The Coalition | Third-Person Shooter |
| Overwatch | 2016 – Present | PC, PlayStation, Xbox | Blizzard Entertainment | Team Shooter |
These franchises have not just shaped the gaming industry; they have become a part of our cultural fabric. They’re not just games; they’re gateways to worlds we’ve grown to love and characters we’ve come to cherish. As the industry evolves, these franchises stand as beacons of creativity, innovation, and storytelling.
A Look into Iconic Video Game Franchises
What Makes a Franchise a Mega-Success? (Expanded)
While iconic characters and engaging gameplay are essential, several other factors contribute to a video game franchise’s long-lasting success.
Innovation
Many top franchises introduce groundbreaking gameplay mechanics or technological advancements. These innovations push the boundaries of what games can achieve and often influence the entire industry. For example, “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” revolutionized open-world design with its physics-based puzzles and emergent gameplay. “Half-Life 2” showcased a groundbreaking physics engine that set a new standard for interactive environments. “Resident Evil 4” introduced the over-the-shoulder perspective, transforming the survival horror genre.
Community and Longevity
Successful franchises cultivate dedicated communities. They achieve this through online features, modding support, or thriving esports scenes. These communities keep the games alive long after their release. Additionally, popular franchises often maintain relevance across decades. They achieve this with re-releases, remasters, and sequels that adapt to modern gaming expectations. Think of how Mario Kart 8 was re-released on the Switch with new content, ensuring its continued popularity.
FAQs
What is the Greatest Video Game Franchise of All Time?
Determining the “greatest” video game franchise is subjective and depends on various factors like sales, critical acclaim, cultural impact, and personal preference. However, Mario consistently ranks high in all these categories. With over 765 million units sold, it’s the best-selling video game franchise globally. Mario’s iconic characters, diverse genres, and consistent quality have made it a beloved household name for decades. Other contenders for the top spot include Pokémon, Tetris, and Call of Duty, each with impressive sales figures and cultural influence.
What is the Highest Grossing Game of All Time?
Minecraft holds the title of the highest-grossing video game of all time, with over 300 million copies sold across various platforms. Its open-ended gameplay, creative freedom, and cross-generational appeal have contributed to its massive success. While it’s difficult to determine the exact revenue generated, estimates place Minecraft’s earnings in the billions of dollars, making it the richest video game ever.
What is the Most Preordered Game of All Time?
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 holds the record for the most pre-ordered game of all time. Released in 2011, it garnered significant anticipation due to the popularity of its predecessors. While exact pre-order numbers are difficult to confirm, it’s estimated that millions of copies were reserved before its launch.
What is the Most Sold Game Console of All Time?
The PlayStation 2 (PS2) holds the crown for the most sold game console of all time, with over 155 million units sold worldwide. Released in 2000, its extensive game library, DVD playback capabilities, and affordable price contributed to its widespread adoption.
