Video games have long been a numbers-driven industry. From the console wars of the 1990s between Sega and Nintendo to today’s more analytical approach—complete with monthly active users, retention rates, and microtransaction revenue—success has always been tied to metrics. But amidst all the changing measurements, one classic question remains: What are the best-selling video games of all time?
We scoured publisher data, press releases, interviews, and financial reports to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date list available. Note: pack-in games are counted in total sales, while free-to-play downloads are not.
1. Tetris – 520 Million+ Copies
There’s a reason Tetris sits atop the throne. With more than 520 million copies sold across 50+ platforms since its 1984 debut, this Soviet-born puzzle classic has transcended generations. Much of its dominance comes from mobile sales—over 425 million as of 2014—but the game’s cultural impact is equally vast, from launching the Game Boy to inspiring modern variants like Tetris Effect: Connected.
2. Minecraft – 300 Million Copies
What started as a humble indie release in 2009 has grown into a global phenomenon. As of October 2023, Mojang’s Minecraft has sold over 300 million copies, making it the best-selling paid game of all time. Its appeal lies in creativity and endless replayability, enhanced by massive modding communities, education editions, and even Netflix spinoffs.
3. Grand Theft Auto V – 200 Million+ Copies
Rockstar’s GTA 5 continues to shatter records. With 200 million copies sold across three console generations and PC, it’s the best-selling premium game ever on those platforms. Since launching in 2013, GTA 5 has generated billions in revenue and still charts in top 10 lists—testament to its enduring popularity. Its successor, GTA 6, is slated for a Fall 2025 release.
4. Wii Sports – 82.9 Million Copies
Bundled with nearly every Wii console at launch, Wii Sports redefined casual gaming. Its 82.9 million sales technically include those pack-in units, but it remains the best-selling exclusive for a single platform. Simple, motion-controlled fun ensured its place in millions of living rooms around the globe.
5. PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) – 75 Million Copies
Before Fortnite dominated the battle royale scene, there was PUBG. Selling 75 million units before going free-to-play in 2022, the game reshaped the competitive shooter landscape. While mobile downloads aren’t counted, PUBG Mobile surpassed 1 billion downloads by 2021, proving its global influence.
6. Mario Kart 8 + Deluxe – 70.43 Million Copies
Nintendo’s most successful racing title, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, has sold nearly 70.43 million copies when including both Switch and Wii U versions. As of early 2024, it’s still the Switch’s best-selling title—a perfect storm of accessibility, nostalgia, and competitive chaos.
7. Red Dead Redemption 2 – 64 Million Copies
Rockstar appears on the list again with Red Dead Redemption 2, a cinematic Western epic that’s sold 64 million units since its 2018 debut. Its emotional storytelling, detailed open world, and critical acclaim helped solidify its place as one of the most immersive games ever made.
8. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – 60 Million Copies
Few games enjoy the staying power of Skyrim. Since 2011, it’s sold over 60 million copies, appearing on almost every modern platform—including VR. With constant re-releases and a thriving modding community, Bethesda’s fantasy RPG continues to attract both new and returning players.
9. Terraria – 58.7 Million Copies
A true indie success story, Terraria has sold 58.7 million units as of June 2024. Its blend of crafting, exploration, and 2D action appeals to a wide player base, particularly on PC where 32 million of those copies were sold. Developer Re-Logic’s dedication to updates helped this game defy expectations.
10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – 50 Million+ Copies
Rounding out the list is The Witcher 3, which hit the 50 million mark in May 2023. CD Projekt Red’s sprawling RPG continues to benefit from new-gen updates and TV adaptations. With a Witcher 4 and a remake of the original game in the works, the series’ future looks just as bright.
What Makes a Game Sell?
A common theme across these titles is accessibility, longevity, and player engagement. Whether it’s Minecraft’s open creativity, GTA 5’s chaotic sandbox, or Wii Sports’ intuitive fun, the biggest hits found ways to resonate with broad audiences.
Critics may argue that sales don’t equal quality—but in an industry as competitive as gaming, these numbers reflect undeniable mass appeal and cultural relevance. As the market evolves with new platforms and monetization models, the best-selling games of the future may look very different—but for now, these are the titans.
Final Thoughts
From the pixelated blocks of Tetris to the sprawling wilderness of Red Dead Redemption 2, these games have done more than move units—they’ve shaped the medium. As we wait for GTA 6 and the next big thing in gaming, these ten titles stand as proof of just how far interactive entertainment has come.
Let’s see who climbs the leaderboard next.
