Video games have become an integral part of modern entertainment, offering immersive experiences that keep players hooked for hours on end. Some game series have achieved legendary status, with sequels and spin-offs that build on each other to create unforgettable worlds and narratives. If you’re a dedicated gamer looking to dive into a series, there are several iconic franchises worth playing through every single entry. Here’s a list of popular game series that are not only known for their quality but also for their engaging progression through each installment.
- The Legend of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda series by Nintendo has been captivating players since its debut in 1986. Known for its captivating storytelling, challenging puzzles, and expansive open worlds, the series follows the hero, Link, as he battles to save the land of Hyrule from evil forces. The series evolves with every new installment, offering unique gameplay mechanics while maintaining its signature adventure and exploration feel.
From Ocarina of Time to Breath of the Wild, each Zelda game introduces new elements such as combat systems, dungeon designs, and character interactions. Breath of the Wild introduced an open-world format that redefined the series, but older entries like Link to the Past and Majora’s Mask still offer some of the best dungeon designs in gaming. If you’re a fan of fantasy adventure games, playing through the entire Zelda series offers a rich tapestry of storytelling and gameplay innovation.
- Halo
Halo revolutionized the first-person shooter genre when it first launched in 2001. Developed by Bungie and later 343 Industries, the series focuses on the epic battle between humanity and the alien Covenant. The protagonist, Master Chief, is one of the most iconic video game characters, and his journey across the stars has spanned multiple games, novels, and even a TV series.
While the first few entries, like Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 2, helped cement the series as a staple in the FPS genre, later installments like Halo 3 and Halo: Reach raised the stakes, with new gameplay mechanics, multiplayer modes, and expanded lore. Halo Infinite, the latest installment, continues the saga with a fresh approach while honoring the series’ past. The Halo series is a must-play for any fan of sci-fi shooters, offering a thrilling mix of single-player campaigns and multiplayer modes.
- The Elder Scrolls
For fans of open-world RPGs, The Elder Scrolls series nhà cái 69vn offers some of the most immersive worlds in gaming. Starting with Arena in 1994, Bethesda’s Elder Scrolls games have been known for their expansive environments, deep lore, and freedom of choice. The series truly found its stride with Morrowind, but Oblivion and Skyrim became global phenomena, offering sprawling maps, intricate quests, and a wealth of player customization options.
Each entry in the series is set in a different part of the continent of Tamriel, each with its own unique culture, environment, and conflicts. Skyrim, in particular, remains one of the most popular RPGs of all time due to its high level of freedom and countless side quests. Whether you’re looking for epic dragon battles or the freedom to live out your own fantasy, The Elder Scrolls offers something for everyone.
- Final Fantasy
As one of the most beloved RPG series of all time, Final Fantasy has captivated players with its fantastical worlds, rich storylines, and memorable characters. The series has evolved greatly since its first release in 1987, with each new game introducing innovative gameplay mechanics and pushing the boundaries of what RPGs can achieve.
From the turn-based combat of Final Fantasy VII to the real-time action of Final Fantasy XV, the series has seen a transformation in both gameplay and graphics. Some entries, like Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy VII, have earned legendary status due to their emotional depth and timeless appeal. With upcoming titles like Final Fantasy XVI, the franchise continues to evolve while staying true to its roots of delivering epic tales and unforgettable worlds.
- Grand Theft Auto
Grand Theft Auto (GTA), created by Rockstar Games, is another legendary series that has evolved considerably over the years. Known for its open-world gameplay, over-the-top action, and satirical social commentary, GTA games let players explore massive cities filled with missions, side activities, and opportunities for chaos.
From the early days of the 2D top-down perspective in GTA and GTA II to the sprawling 3D worlds of GTA III, GTA: Vice City, and the modern open-world experiences in GTA V, the series has only grown in ambition. GTA V in particular remains one of the best-selling video games of all time due to its massive online multiplayer mode, GTA Online, and its detailed single-player experience. If you enjoy open-world exploration with a dose of dark humor, this series is essential.
- Assassin’s Creed
Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed series has long been a favorite for those who enjoy historical action-adventure games. The series follows the conflict between the Assassins and Templars, weaving in historical events, famous figures, and breathtaking locations into its gameplay.
Each installment introduces a new protagonist and setting, from Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad in the Crusades to Ezio Auditore in Renaissance Italy, and later, characters like Connor Kenway in the American Revolution and Bayek of Siwa in Ancient Egypt. The newer entries, like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, continue to evolve the series by incorporating RPG elements like branching storylines and character progression. With such a diverse range of time periods and gameplay styles, this series is a rewarding journey for history buffs and action fans alike.
Conclusion
These iconic game series each offer something unique, whether it’s through their captivating storytelling, innovative gameplay, or the immersive worlds they create. Playing through every entry in a series gives players the opportunity to witness the evolution of both the mechanics and the narrative, while enjoying a truly memorable gaming experience. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy, sci-fi, action, or RPGs, these series provide endless hours of entertainment, each worth experiencing in its entirety.