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With so many free-to-play games becoming popular, millions of players now enjoy gaming without buying a title. But when it comes to paid games, some names still stand far above the rest. These games have sold huge numbers of copies across different platforms and generations.
This list focuses only on games that people had to buy. Free-to-play titles like Fortnite or CS: GO are not included. It also counts pack-in games that came bundled with consoles, which helped some titles reach very high sales.
Here is a simple look at the ten best-selling games of all time based on the latest public data.
10. Super Mario Bros. – 50 Million Copies
Released in 1985 for the NES, this game helped make Mario a global star. It was simple, fun, and easy to learn, which made people of all ages enjoy it. Many copies were sold because it came bundled with the console. Even today, its music and level design are remembered by players around the world.
9. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – 60 Million Copies
This game launched in 2015 and became famous for its deep story and open world. Players loved the choices they could make and the detailed world they could explore. The Netflix series also helped bring new fans to the game, which boosted its sales even more.
8. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – 60 Million Copies
Skyrim released in 2011 and never really went away. It has been launched on many platforms, from consoles to handheld devices. Players enjoy its freedom, where they can explore, fight, or follow the main story at their own pace. Its long life has helped it reach massive sales numbers.
7. PUBG – 75 Million Copies
Before it became free-to-play, PUBG sold millions of copies on PC and consoles. Released in 2017, it helped make battle royale games popular around the world. Its intense survival gameplay attracted players who enjoyed both action and strategy.
6. Mario Kart 8 and Deluxe – 78 Million Copies
Mario Kart 8 started on the Wii U, but its biggest success came on the Nintendo Switch with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. The game is loved for its fun races, colorful tracks, and family-friendly style. Many copies were sold as part of console bundles.
5. Red Dead Redemption 2 – 82 Million Copies
This western-themed game from 2018 tells a powerful story set in the late 1800s. Players explore a large open world filled with towns, wildlife, and characters. Its detailed world and emotional story helped it become one of the most successful games ever.
4. Wii Sports – 82.9 Million Copies
Wii Sports came bundled with the Nintendo Wii, which helped it reach a huge audience. It introduced many people to motion controls through simple games like tennis, bowling, and boxing. For many families, this was their first gaming experience.
3. Grand Theft Auto 5 – 225 Million Copies
Released in 2013, GTA 5 is still selling millions of copies every year. Its online mode keeps players coming back, while its open world allows endless freedom. It has appeared on multiple console generations, which helped it grow its sales even more.
2. Minecraft – 300 Million Copies
Minecraft is one of the most loved games in the world. Players can build, explore, and survive in a block-based world with endless possibilities. It is played by kids, adults, and even in schools. Its simple look hides a very deep and creative game.
1. Tetris – 520 Million Copies
Tetris is the best-selling game of all time. This simple puzzle game has been released on almost every device you can imagine. Its easy rules and addictive gameplay made it popular for decades. People of all ages still enjoy stacking blocks and clearing lines.
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