In The Wind Waker, we experience a magical journey through a huge, open world that looks almost timeless thanks to its unique cel-shaded graphics. We take on the role of Link and sail across endless oceans to rescue the kidnapped Princess Zelda. The game impresses with innovative game mechanics, exciting puzzles and a captivating story that takes us into a world full of magic and adventure.
© Nintendo
In San Andreas, we are thrown into a vast, vibrant world that stretches from the streets of the big city to the countryside. We take on the role of Carl "CJ" Johnson, who returns home to solve his mother's murder and rebuild his old gang. The game offers countless missions, activities and customization options that will keep us entertained for hours and give us a deep insight into the (virtual) life of a gangster.
© Rockstar Games
A sequel to the groundbreaking first installment, Half-Life 2 sets new standards for first-person shooters and is the basis for other classics such as Garry's Mod. We experience the story of Gordon Freeman, who fights for survival in a world overrun by aliens. The realistic physics engine, the gripping atmosphere and the thrilling story create a deep immersion that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
© Valve Corporation
This epic sci-fi shooter follows the adventures of the Master Chief, a super-soldier on a mission to save humanity from the Alien Alliance. Halo: Combat Evolved has set a new standard for console shooters with its stunning visuals, addictive gameplay and revolutionary multiplayer mode that continues to thrill us and our friends.
© Microsoft
In Metroid Prime, we take on the role of bounty hunter Samus Aran as she battles a mysterious threat on the planet Tallon IV. Combining first-person shooter elements with deep exploration, the game features detailed graphics and a dense atmosphere. Exploring strange worlds, solving complex puzzles and battling dangerous enemies make the game an unforgettable experience.
© Nintendo
In this particularly emotional game, we take on the role of Wander, who is trying to bring his beloved Mono back to life. To do so, we must defeat 16 giant colossi. Epic boss battles, a melancholy atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make Shadow of the Colossus a unique masterpiece that will be remembered for a long time.
© Sony Computer Entertainment
Can you believe the fourth game in the series was released in 2005? Combining action-packed combat with survival horror elements, Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the genre. We play as Leon S. Kennedy, who must rescue the kidnapped daughter of the US President. The gripping story, intense atmosphere and innovative gameplay elements make it an outstanding game that still captivates us today.
© Capcom
World of Warcraft has probably never passed anyone by. We control our character through the vast open world of Azeroth, where we can choose from different races and classes to complete epic quests with our friends. The MMORPG has set new standards for online role-playing games and has captivated millions of players. The vibrant community and constant expansion of the game world ensure that there are always new adventures to be had.
© Blizzard Entertainment
With Final Fantasy X, Square Enix takes us to the world of Spira, where we join Tidus on his journey to defeat Sin. The game impresses with its emotional story, deep characters and innovative battle system. Breathtaking graphics and the introduction of voice acting make it one of the best RPGs of its time.
© Square Enix
This role-playing game in the Star Wars galaxy offers a detailed plot and complex character development. We can play as Jedi or Sith, and our decisions influence the course of the story. The richly designed world and epic adventures make Knights of the Old Republic an unforgettable game for all Star Wars fans.
© LucasArts
In Morrowind, we explore the vast open world of Vvardenfell, filled with detail and adventure. We customize our character and experience a variety of quests and tasks in the fantastic world of Tamriel. The in-depth story and the freedom to play the game your way make it a true classic, and rightly so.
© Bethesda Softworks
Gothic is known for its dense atmosphere and rough characters. We control a nameless hero through a harsh world full of danger and adventure. The ingenious game mechanics and deep story captivate us and make the game a cult classic.
© Piranha Bytes / THQ Nordic
Diablo II is one of the most influential action role-playing games of all time. Fight your way through randomly generated dungeons and battle hordes of demons to defeat evil. The game's addictive hack-and-slash mechanics, extensive character development, and high replay value make it a timeless classic.
© Blizzard Entertainment
In Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, we play as a prince who uses the power of the hourglass to manipulate time and overcome obstacles. The game combines acrobatic gameplay with an engrossing story and innovative time manipulation mechanisms that will keep us hooked for hours.
© Ubisoft
Metal Gear Solid 2 still impresses today with its complex storyline, advanced graphics and deep gameplay. We take on the roles of Solid Snake and Raiden as they battle a conspiracy with far-reaching consequences. The mix of action, stealth and in-depth story make this game a milestone.
© Konami
Yes, AAA games are cool. The graphics get better and better, the animations get more and more realistic, and the stories get longer and longer. But if we're being honest, it's often the games that don't need all that to captivate us with their pure atmosphere. Here are 15 of the best games from the early 2000s that have aged well.
