Every gamer has a list of titles that left a mark — games that didn’t just entertain, but immersed us, taught us something, or made us feel alive in their worlds. Over the years, I’ve played countless games across genres and platforms, but only a handful truly stand out as unforgettable experiences.
So today, I’m going to take you through my top 5 favorite games that I’ve played in recent years — and why I love and recommend each of them. Whether you’re into action, open-world exploration, mythology, or heartfelt storytelling, this list has something for everyone.
Let’s start our countdown from number five and move up to the greatest of them all.
🏛️ 5. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey — The Most Complete Assassin’s Creed Experience
Let’s begin with a game that often sparks debates among fans — Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Many critics say it lost the “true Assassin’s Creed feel,” but if you approach it with an open mind, you’ll discover it’s one of the most balanced and feature-rich games in the entire franchise.
Set in ancient Greece, Odyssey lets you play as either Alexios or Kassandra, descendants of Leonidas, on a sprawling journey across breathtaking landscapes, legendary battles, and mythical quests.
✨ Why I Love It
Unlike earlier AC titles that followed a strict storyline, Odyssey gives you total control over your fate. You choose your dialogue, alliances, romantic interests, and even whether to fight stealthily or charge into combat.
The open world is massive and alive — from the golden fields of Attika to the seas of the Aegean. And the DLC expansions like The Fate of Atlantis take it to mythological heights, letting you explore the afterlife and interact with Greek gods.
It also revived the naval warfare system, allowing players to command ships in large-scale ocean battles reminiscent of Black Flag.
Rating: ⭐ 9/10
If you’ve ever dreamed of being a mercenary in ancient Greece, making choices that define your destiny, this is the Assassin’s Creed you should not miss.
🗺️ 4. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End — The Perfect Farewell to a Legend
So far, we’ve talked about freedom and open worlds — now let’s shift gears to cinematic adventure. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End by Naughty Dog isn’t just a game; it’s a beautifully directed movie that you get to play.
Nathan Drake’s final chapter delivers everything fans hoped for — breathtaking visuals, sharp writing, witty dialogue, and heart-pounding action sequences.
🎭 Why I Recommend It
Uncharted 4 finds the perfect balance between storytelling and gameplay.
You’ll solve puzzles, engage in stealth missions, and battle mercenaries while traveling through stunning environments — from the jungles of Madagascar to ancient pirate ruins.
What I particularly loved was how the game explores Nathan’s human side — his relationships, regrets, and longing for one last adventure.
Every gunfight feels meaningful, every puzzle feels organic, and every cinematic cutscene feels earned. It’s not just about treasure hunting — it’s about closure.
Rating: ⭐ 9.2/10
If you’ve followed Nathan Drake since the early PlayStation days, this ending will hit you right in the feels.
⚔️ 3. God of War (2018) — Mythology, Emotion, and Mastery Combined
Now let’s move to a game that needs no introduction.
When God of War (2018) released, it completely redefined what a reboot could be.
Santa Monica Studio didn’t just bring back Kratos — they evolved him. This wasn’t the same angry god from Olympus; this was a father, a mentor, and a warrior searching for peace.
🔱 Why It’s Special
The bond between Kratos and Atreus is at the heart of this masterpiece. Their journey across the realms of Norse mythology — facing gods, monsters, and emotional truths — is both epic and intimate.
The Leviathan Axe feels incredible to wield, the combat is deep and weighty, and the single-shot camera style makes you feel like you’re living every moment beside them.
It’s rare for an action game to carry such emotional depth, but God of War (2018) manages to do exactly that.
Rating: ⭐ 9.3/10
If you’ve ever wanted to experience a story that blends mythology, fatherhood, and redemption, this is your journey.
🕸️ 2. Marvel’s Spider-Man (2018) — Swinging into Perfection
So far, we’ve seen gods, pirates, and assassins — but now let’s talk about everyone’s favorite friendly neighborhood superhero.
Insomniac Games’ Marvel’s Spider-Man was a revelation.
Many thought it would just be another superhero game, but it turned out to be one of the best stories ever told in Spider-Man’s digital history.
🕹️ What Makes It Incredible
The moment you swing through New York for the first time, you’ll understand why this game is so loved. The fluid web-swinging mechanics, the combat flow, and the cinematic storytelling make it an instant classic.
You play as a mature Peter Parker, balancing his double life as a scientist and superhero. The villains aren’t just there to fight — they’re woven deeply into Peter’s story. The emotional ending still stands as one of the most impactful in modern gaming.
Plus, with over 40 suits, each with unique abilities (and some designed exclusively by Insomniac), it offers endless replayability.
Rating: ⭐ 9.5/10
If you love open-world games and heartfelt narratives, Marvel’s Spider-Man is pure joy — a mix of action, emotion, and freedom.
🤠 1. Red Dead Redemption 2 — The Masterpiece That Changed Gaming Forever
We’ve reached number one — and this choice needs no debate.
Red Dead Redemption 2 by Rockstar Games isn’t just a game. It’s a living, breathing world.
From the moment you ride out into the snowy wilderness as Arthur Morgan, you realize you’re part of something historic.
🐎 Why It’s a Masterpiece
No other game pays attention to detail like RDR2. The world reacts to everything you do — the people remember you, your horse bonds with you, and even small acts of kindness (or cruelty) change how NPCs behave.
The storyline is heartbreaking, following the slow collapse of an outlaw gang and Arthur’s personal journey from rebellion to redemption. It’s tragic, poetic, and unforgettable.
The game’s realism goes beyond graphics. Every weapon feels handcrafted, every animal has its own ecosystem, and every town feels alive with culture and gossip.
Even after completing the story, players keep returning just to explore, fish, hunt, and watch the sun rise over the mountains.
Rating: ⭐ 10/10
It’s not just the best game I’ve ever played — it’s one of the greatest pieces of interactive storytelling ever made. Rockstar didn’t just create a game; they created an experience that will be remembered for decades.
🕹️ Honorable Mentions
Before we wrap up, it’s worth mentioning a few other gems that almost made the list:
- No Man’s Sky — for its incredible redemption arc and infinite exploration.
- Valorant — for its competitive precision and tactical teamplay.
- COD: Modern Warfare (Series) — for redefining modern first-person shooters.
- GTA Vice City — for nostalgia, chaos, and sheer fun that shaped our childhoods.
Each of these games brought something unique to the table and helped define different eras of gaming.
💭 Final Thoughts
So there you have it — my top 5 favorite games that have stayed with me over the years. Each one isn’t just technically impressive, but emotionally resonant.
From ancient Greece to Old West America, from mythical gods to everyday heroes, these titles show just how far storytelling in gaming has come.
If you haven’t tried some of them yet, now’s the perfect time. These games aren’t just worth playing — they’re worth remembering.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article reflects personal opinions and gaming experiences. Ratings are subjective and based on gameplay, storytelling, and overall enjoyment. Always check system requirements and age ratings before purchasing or playing.
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