BAFTA Names Most Influential Game Ever—You Won't Believe It

BAFTA has revealed its top choice for the most influential video game of all time, and it's none other than Shenmue, a pioneering action-adventure game released in 1999. The public poll highlighted how Shenmue's detailed open-world setting and unique storytelling captured players' imaginations. Following Shenmue, Doom secured the second spot, with Super Mario Bros. rounding out the top three. Notably absent from the list were iconic modern titles like Grand Theft Auto V and Fortnite, which sparked discussions among gamers about the criteria for influential gaming. Yu Suzuki, the creator of Shenmue, expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the game's legacy in pushing the boundaries of realism in video games.

Shenmue is celebrated for its groundbreaking open-world design, intricate storytelling, and detailed environments, setting a new standard for narrative-driven games and player immersion at the time of its release.

Shenmue, originally created by Yu Suzuki for the Sega Dreamcast, was notable for being one of the first games to feature a realistic day-night cycle and a fully realized urban landscape. Its development aimed to explore the blend of adventure and realism in video games, creating a unique experience that resonated with players and influenced many subsequent titles in the genre.