History's Best Selling Video Games of 2014

Hats off to 2014! Few games commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as Mario Kart 8 / Deluxe. Alongside sensationally popular hits like Destiny and Dragon Age: Inquisition, consumers eagerly embraced the Y2K fever and early digital revolution. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like Nintendo EAD and Bungie set the standard for quality, producing celebrated items that dominated airwaves and playground buzz alike. Browse our definitive retrospective below to rediscover the genuine articles of the era.

1. Mario Kart 8 / Deluxe

   Released in 2014 by Nintendo EAD, Nintendo EPD (Deluxe), Nintendo

   On May 29, 2014, Nintendo launched Mario Kart 8 in Japan, a release that carried the hopes of the company and its struggling Wii U console. The Wii U had failed to capture the mainstream success of its predecessor, the Wii, and Nintendo was banking on its blockbuster racing franchise to revitalize hardware sales. As the eighth major installment, Mario Kart 8 was designed to be a system-seller, introducing stunning HD graphics to the series for the first time. Its launch was a critical moment, representing a high-stakes bet that the polished, inventive gameplay of a beloved series could turn the tide and bring players back to Nintendo's home console.

2. Destiny

   Released in 2014 by Bungie, Activision

   The launch of Destiny on September 9, 2014, was a monumental event in the gaming world, drawing unprecedented levels of hype and anticipation. Developed by Bungie, the creators of the iconic 'Halo' franchise, and published by Activision, Destiny was positioned as a groundbreaking shared-world shooter. Its release was met with massive enthusiasm, becoming a cultural phenomenon almost overnight. Players eagerly jumped into its ambitious sci-fi universe, flocking to its servers in droves and establishing a vibrant online community that continues to thrive. Destiny wasn't just a game; it was a promise of a new kind of interconnected gaming experience that captivated millions from day one.

3. Dragon Age: Inquisition

   Released in 2014 by BioWare, Electronic Arts

   Upon its release in November 2014, Dragon Age: Inquisition immediately seized the attention of the gaming world, quickly becoming a defining title of the year. Following a period of high anticipation for BioWare's next epic RPG, the game delivered a sprawling fantasy experience that captured the imaginations of millions. It wasn't just a successful launch; Inquisition became a genuine cultural phenomenon, dominating conversations among RPG enthusiasts and critics alike. Its grand scope, compelling narrative, and rich world-building positioned it as a flagship title, revitalizing the Dragon Age series and affirming BioWare's reputation for crafting immersive, story-driven adventures that leave a lasting impact on players.

4. Super Smash Bros. for Wii U

   Released in 2014 by Bandai Namco Studios, Nintendo

   When Super Smash Bros. for Wii U launched on November 21, 2014, it wasn't just another game release; it was a seismic event that captivated the gaming world and immediately became one of the year's most talked-about titles. This highly anticipated fighting game, a collaborative effort from Bandai Namco Studios and Nintendo, landed with immense fanfare, proving to be an instant cultural phenomenon. Its arrival on the Wii U console marked a pivotal moment for Nintendo's struggling platform, offering a vibrant, character-rich experience that united fans of various iconic franchises. The game quickly soared to the top of sales charts, solidifying its place as a critical and commercial darling of 2014, a testament to its broad appeal and the enduring legacy of the Smash Bros. series.