BAFTA, the UK's independent arts charity that celebrates excellence in film, games, and TV, has recently unveiled what they've determined to be the most influential video game of all time. Contrary to what many might expect, the top honor went to Shenmue, an action-adventure game that debuted on the Dreamcast in 1999.

The public's vote elevated Shenmue above other iconic titles like GTA, Tetris, World of Warcraft, Minecraft, Doom, and Half-Life 2. BAFTA praised Shenmue for its detailed open-world setting, capturing the essence of Yokosuka in the 80s as protagonist Ryo Hazuki seeks to avenge his father's death.

Notably absent from the list are modern hits like Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite.

Yu Suzuki, the creator of the Shenmue franchise, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, "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."

Suzuki also extended his thanks to 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!"

Here is the complete list of the top 21 most influential games of all time, as voted by the public:

• 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! has received seven nominations, Black Myth: Wukong six, and Helldivers 2 is up for five awards.

In the 2024 BAFTA Game Awards, Baldur's Gate 3 was a standout, securing five wins, including Best Game. Other notable winners included Alan Wake 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Viewfinder.