History's Best Selling Video Games of 2021

Hats off to 2021! Few games commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as It Takes Two. Alongside sensationally popular hits like Resident Evil Village and Metroid Dread, consumers eagerly embraced the Y2K fever and early digital revolution. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like Hazelight Studios and Capcom 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. It Takes Two

   Released in 2021 by Hazelight Studios, Electronic Arts

   On March 26, 2021, Hazelight Studios and Electronic Arts launched "It Takes Two," a game that unapologetically defied industry trends. Released exclusively as a two-player cooperative experience, it entered a market saturated with single-player epics and competitive online titles. The date marked the arrival of a refreshingly unique action-adventure platformer built entirely around collaboration. As part of the EA Originals program, which supports independent visions, the game was a bold creative gamble. This release was not just another title on the calendar; it was the beginning of a journey for a game that would go on to receive widespread critical acclaim and ultimately win the coveted Game of the Year award.

2. Resident Evil Village

   Released in 2021 by Capcom, Capcom

   Resident Evil Village exploded onto the gaming scene on May 7, 2021, quickly becoming one of the year's most talked-about and bestselling titles. As the eighth main installment in the venerable Resident Evil series, it was met with immense anticipation, building on the first-person perspective and horror intensity established by its predecessor, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. Its launch wasn't just a commercial success; it was a cultural phenomenon, captivating both long-time fans and newcomers with its unique blend of gothic horror, intense action, and unforgettable characters, particularly the towering Lady Dimitrescu, who became an internet sensation even before the game's release. This immediate impact cemented its status as a must-play experience in 2021.

3. Metroid Dread

   Released in 2021 by MercurySteam, Nintendo

   Metroid Dread arrived on the Nintendo Switch in October 2021, marking a triumphant return for the classic 2D Metroid series after nearly two decades. Its launch was not just a major event for long-time fans who had yearned for a true sequel to Metroid Fusion, but also a significant cultural phenomenon within the gaming landscape of that year. Dread immediately captivated audiences with its polished gameplay, intense atmosphere, and a compelling narrative that brought closure to an overarching saga. Its critical acclaim and swift commercial success quickly solidified its status as one of the bestselling and most talked-about titles of 2021, proving that the Metroid formula, when executed with precision and innovation, remains as relevant and thrilling as ever. This long-awaited installment successfully bridged the gap between nostalgic reverence and modern design, creating an experience that felt both familiar and refreshingly new.