News about BAFTA Names 'Most Influential Video Game' - Surprising Choice Revealed

BAFTA, the renowned UK arts charity that honors excellence in film, games, and television, has recently announced the results of a public poll to determine the most influential video game of all time. The winner, which might come as a surprise to many, is the 1999 action-adventure game Shenmue.

Released on the Dreamcast, Shenmue follows protagonist Ryo Hazuki on his quest for vengeance following his father's murder. BAFTA praised the game for its "detailed open-world setting that truly captures the essence of Yokosuka in the ‘80s." This immersive experience set a new standard for video game environments.

In the poll, Shenmue outranked other iconic titles such as GTA, Tetris, World of Warcraft, Minecraft, Doom, and Half-Life 2. The "pioneering first-person shooter" Doom came in second place, while the classic Super Mario Bros. from 1985 secured the third spot. Rounding out the top five were Half-Life and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.

Interestingly, some modern blockbusters like Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite did not make the list, highlighting the public's appreciation for games that have had a lasting impact on the industry.

Yu Suzuki, the creator of the Shenmue franchise, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, "I am deeply honoured and grateful that Shenmue has been selected as the Most Influential Video Game of All Time. At its inception, we set out to explore the question, 'How real can a game become?,' aiming to portray a world and story unprecedented in scale and detail. This distinction serves as a powerful reminder that the challenge we embraced continues to resonate with and inspire so many people even today. It is truly the greatest of encouragement."

Suzuki also thanked the fans, saying, "Above all, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the fans around the world who have continued to love and support Shenmue. Your passion and encouragement have guided this journey every step of the way. And the story is not over yet, there is more to come! Thank you very much!"

The full list of the top 21 most influential games, as voted by the public, includes:

Shenmue (1999)
Doom (1993)
Super Mario Bros. (1985)
Half-Life (1998)
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
Minecraft (2011)
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (2025)
Super Mario 64 (1996)
Half-Life 2 (2004)
The Sims (2000)
Tetris (1984)
Tomb Raider (1996)
Pong (1972)
Metal Gear Solid (1998)
World of Warcraft (2004)
Baldur's Gate 3 (2023)
Final Fantasy VII (1997)
Dark Souls (2011)
Grand Theft Auto 3 (2001)
Skyrim (2011)
Grand Theft Auto (1997)

Looking ahead, the 2025 BAFTA Game Awards are scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Leading the nominations are Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Astro Bot, and Still Wakes the Deep with 11, eight, and eight nominations respectively. Thank Goodness You're Here! received seven nominations, Black Myth: Wukong six, and Helldivers 2 is up for five awards.

Reflecting on the 2024 BAFTA Game Awards, Baldur's Gate 3 was a major winner, securing five awards, including Best Game. Other notable winners included Alan Wake 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Viewfinder.