Video games are always pushing technology as players demand the latest in graphics and physics. The industry overall is geared towards constantly churning out new games to keep people interested. However, with decades of video game history in the books, certain games have become certified classics and still have huge fan bases even in the modern age. Here are some games that have certainly stood the test of time.

Tetris

The classic puzzle game Tetris may be among the most copied and cloned games of all time. When it was released in 1984 it became an instant favorite of gamers worldwide. Now in 2021, Tetris is still highly appreciated for its remarkably fun gameplay.

Even amidst modern competition, Tetris still has a rabid fan base and more than 500 million Tetris mobile apps have been downloaded. In 2015, it was an inaugural inductee into the World Video Game Hall of Fame which is just one of the many facts that show this classic game has some impressive history behind it. It’s likely that Tetris will continue to be appreciated for generations to come.

Doom 2

The Doom series is one of the originators of the FPS (first person shooter) genre. When Doom 2 was released, it was heavily praised for its groundbreaking use of shading and texturing, mixed with heart-pounding action. While many shooters of the era have long been forgotten, or have a small cult following, the Doom series remains a favorite of gamers today.

Doom 2 has numerous mods that present the game in a different setting or change the physics and environment. This modding community keeps the game alive in the minds of gamers of all ages. Interestingly enough, even after almost 30 years, players are still discovering new things about the original release. In 2018 after 24 years, a secret was discovered that finally allowed players to complete 100% of the game.

The Elders Scrolls III: Morrowind

When you bring up Morrowind to gamers, many will tell you their list of the game’s pitfalls and shortcomings. Common complaints include the horrible combat system, muddy color palette, tons of bugs, and overall unappealing graphics. So how is it that this game has managed to survive 20 years? Atmosphere. Immersion. Morrowind succeeded in crafting a true RPG experience that still hasn’t been matched to this day. Luckily a thriving modding community continuously adds to this experience and helps make it digestible for newer gamers.

CS:GO

The world of esports is competitive and constantly changing. Every year, new titles emerge and vacuum up the fan bases of other games who switch over in search of recognition and huge cash prizes. Considering that there are many colorful, adrenaline fueled competitorslike the Destiny and Borderlands series, it makes it especially impressive that Counter-Strike: Global Offensive has managed to stay one of the most competitive esports games for a decade. Thanks to exposure from streamers, numerous high-profile tournaments around the world, and a dedicated community involved with the game, this is one title that is not going anywhere.

Street Fighter 2

Street Fighter 2 revolutionized fighting games and has absolutely stood the test of time. When it launched in 1991, it took center stage as the premier fighting game and had players lined up at the arcades waiting for their turn. Even today you can find arcade cabinets in public places all around the world. The game has been emulated and re-released on numerous different platforms and somehow manages to stay relevant. After all these years, Street Fighter 2 hasn’t lost any charm and is still as fluid and fun as ever.

Final Fantasy 7

The Final Fantasy series has many milestones in its history and each main series installment is a favorite of thousands of gamers out there. However, it is hard to argue the FF7 isn’t the most cherished and beloved in the entire series. Everything about this game is still impressive today, from the 3D modeling, to the turn-based combat, the deep materia (magic) system, the sprawling open world, and of course, the enthralling plot. The original copies of this game are collectors items, and they are only getting more valuable after the recent PS4 remake.