Shenmue tops Bafta poll as most influential video game of all time

In the United Kingdom, a public poll conducted by Bafta has revealed that Shenmue, an action-adventure game released in 1999 on the Sega Dreamcast, has been voted the most influential video game of all time. This victory comes after a month of open voting and reflects the community's recognition of the game's significant impact on the gaming industry. Shenmue secured its top position by surpassing famous titles like Doom, Super Mario Bros, and Grand Theft Auto, which highlights its importance in the evolution of game design. The game is celebrated for pioneering open-world gameplay mechanics and introducing quick time events, which have now become standard features in many contemporary video games. During its initial release, Shenmue set out to explore how realistic a game could become, aiming to create an immersive world filled with details and a compelling narrative centered around the protagonist, Ryo Hazuki, on his quest for vengeance. Luke Hebblethwaite, head of games at Bafta, expressed his excitement over the community's engagement with the poll, noting that it fostered positive conversations about influential games. Yu Suzuki, the creator of the Shenmue franchise, expressed gratitude to fans for their unwavering support, stating that this recognition serves as encouragement to continue pushing the boundaries in game development and storytelling. The announcement coincides with the upcoming 21st Bafta Game Awards, scheduled for April 8, 2025, which further emphasizes the relevance of Shenmue's influence as the industry prepares to celebrate other game achievements. The myriad of responses from both creators and fans indicates a vibrant discussion about the legacy of Shenmue and video games as a whole, creating an appreciation of titles that have shaped the gaming landscape.