Edge magazine, a stalwart in the world of video game journalism, marks its impressive 30th anniversary this year. Throughout its illustrious history, Edge has weathered the shifting tides of the gaming industry, outlasting many competitors and standing firm as a discerning voice in game reviews.
In commemoration of this milestone, the magazine has compiled a meticulously curated list of the top games released since 1993, featuring contributions from both industry insiders and their own seasoned staff. While this compilation is not an all-time list, it still offers a captivating glimpse into the most exceptional titles that have graced our screens over the past three decades.
Edge’s top game since 1993 is none other than “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.” This Nintendo masterpiece has consistently earned accolades since its debut, and it’s no surprise that it reigns supreme on this list. The magazine’s initial review of “Breath of the Wild” was brimming with praise, even dubbing it possibly the best game ever made. Interestingly, the sequel, “Tears of the Kingdom,” also finds its place on the list but at a respectable number 20.
Japanese dominance in the top 10
What stands out prominently in Edge’s ranking is the dominance of Japanese-made games, especially in the top 10. The entire top five spots are claimed by titles from Japanese developers, and six out of the top 10 hail from the Land of the Rising Sun. This showcase of Japanese excellence underscores the profound impact the country has had on the gaming world. Notably, two FromSoftware titles, “Dark Souls” and “Elden Ring,” both highly acclaimed for their challenging gameplay and immersive worlds, make their presence felt in the top 10.
Amidst the Japanese gaming giants in the top 10, a Western icon makes its mark. The original “Halo” game, which Edge originally awarded a perfect 10/10 score, lands at an impressive sixth place. This entry from Bungie revolutionized first-person shooters on consoles and played a pivotal role in shaping the Xbox platform’s success. Edge’s enduring recognition of “Halo” is a testament to its lasting impact on the gaming landscape.
Edge’s reassessment and revisionism
Edge’s list also offers a glimpse into the magazine’s willingness to reassess and revise their opinions over the years. Notorious for its initial review of “Doom,” which garnered a modest 7/10, the magazine now recognizes the game’s enduring influence and places it in the top 100.
Conversely, “LittleBigPlanet,” once awarded the coveted 10/10 score, finds itself absent from the list, highlighting the evolving perspectives in gaming journalism. Furthermore, “Grand Theft Auto 3,” which received an 8/10 on its original release, secures a place in the top 100, while its successor, “GTA 4,” lauded with a perfect score by Edge, does not make the cut.
Edge’s list of the top games since 1993 is more than just a compilation; it’s a celebration of the gaming industry’s evolution and enduring excellence. With contributions from industry luminaries like Sam Barlow, Mike Bithell, Dylan Cuthbert, Lucas Pope, Jade Raymond, Harvey Smith, Erik Wolpaw, and Shuhei Yoshida, the list represents a collective consensus of what defines the best of the best in modern gaming. While the order may spark debates among enthusiasts, there is no denying the remarkable quality and influence of the titles that have earned their place on this list.