BAFTA Reveals Surprising 'Most Influential Video Game' %v

BAFTA, the UK's esteemed independent arts charity dedicated to recognizing excellence in film, games, and television, has unveiled what it considers to be the most influential video game of all time. In a surprising twist, the accolade goes to Shenmue, an action-adventure game that hit the shelves in 1999 for the Dreamcast. This game, which follows protagonist Ryo Hazuki on his quest for vengeance in a meticulously crafted open-world setting reminiscent of Yokosuka in the 1980s, has captured the hearts of the British public, securing the top spot in BAFTA's poll.

While iconic titles like GTA, Tetris, World of Warcraft, Minecraft, Doom, and Half-Life 2 also made the list, it was Shenmue that emerged as the clear favorite. The game's creator, Yu Suzuki, expressed his profound gratitude and honor at the recognition, emphasizing the game's pioneering ambition to blur the lines between reality and gaming.

Suzuki stated, "I am deeply honored 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."

He further acknowledged the unwavering support from fans worldwide, 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 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)

Interestingly, games such as Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite were notably absent from the list.

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

Reflecting on the past, the 2024 BAFTA Game Awards saw Baldur's Gate 3 triumph with five wins, including Best Game. Other notable winners included Alan Wake 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Viewfinder.