The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

With a 99/100 Metacritic score, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remains the highest-rated game ever—6 points higher than #2 Super Mario 64. Selling 7.6 million copies, it revolutionized 3D adventure design by introducing Z-targeting combat, time travel mechanics, and an orchestral soundtrack. Its lock-on system and dungeon puzzles set a template that outperforms the more linear platforming of Super Mario 64 in depth and replay value. The game's 10-hour main quest, combined with optional side content, provided a dense experience that still feels modern. By pushing the N64's hardware to its limits, Ocarina of Time proved that video games could deliver cinematic, emotionally resonant stories, a benchmark later followed by Final Fantasy VII.