In a recent public-voted poll conducted by BAFTA, Shenmue has been recognized as the most influential video game of all time. Despite its initial commercial struggles upon release in 1999, the Dreamcast title has since carved out a significant niche for itself in gaming history. It laid the groundwork for open-world games and garnered a devoted fanbase, spawning two sequels. Creator Yu Suzuki expressed deep gratitude for this honor, highlighting the game's original aim to redefine realism in gaming. The poll also featured other iconic titles such as Doom, Super Mario Bros., Half-Life, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Some debate surrounds the inclusion of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, given its recent release date.

A Journey Through Gaming History: The Triumph of Shenmue

In the vibrant tapestry of video game history, Shenmue stands out as a groundbreaking achievement. Released in 1999 on the Sega Dreamcast, it initially faced challenges in capturing widespread commercial success. However, its influence on the evolution of open-world gaming is undeniable. This innovative title introduced players to an expansive universe filled with intricate details and compelling narratives, setting a new standard for immersive gameplay experiences. Its creator, Yu Suzuki, revealed that the core vision behind Shenmue was to explore just how realistic a game could become, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and world-building in digital media.

The poll results reflect not only Shenmue’s lasting impact but also the enduring legacy of classic games like Doom and Half-Life. These titles have inspired countless developers and fostered vibrant communities over decades. Interestingly, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 sparked discussions about its inclusion among the top contenders due to its relatively recent debut in February 2025. Statements from creators of celebrated games underscore their profound appreciation for the communities that sustain their works' relevance through generations.

For fans of Shenmue, this recognition brings immense satisfaction, particularly following last year’s announcement of a new publisher for Shenmue III, which rekindles hopes for broader platform availability. Enthusiasts even went as far as renting a billboard in Times Square to advocate for a fourth installment in the series. Last year, BAFTA similarly honored Lara Croft as the most iconic video game character in a poll preceding the BAFTA Games Awards.

This year’s BAFTA Game Awards, scheduled for Tuesday, April 8th, promise thrilling competition across various categories. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 leads with the most nominations, while Best Game contenders include Black Myth: Wukong, Helldivers 2, Thank Goodness You’re Here!, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, Astro Bot, and Balatro.

From a journalist's perspective, Shenmue's triumph in this poll serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of creative vision in the gaming industry. It highlights how pioneering efforts can shape entire genres and inspire future generations of developers. As we celebrate these milestones, it becomes evident that the true measure of a game’s influence lies not merely in its technological advancements but in its ability to captivate hearts and minds, leaving an indelible mark on cultural consciousness.