Your journey starts here: discover the biggest game franchises

They influence films, television series, books and comics, expanding their presence and cultural impact.

Game franchises play a significant role in the electronic entertainment industry. In fact, a game franchise consists of a series of titles that share common elements, such as characters, plots, gameplay mechanics, and fictional universes.

When executed well, these elements establish a loyal player base and create a strong emotional connection with the audience. Each new addition to a franchise expands its universe and offers new opportunities. Check out the biggest game franchises below and enjoy!

1.  Mario

The Mario franchise, developed by Nintendo, is one of the most influential in the history of video games. Since its launch in 1985 with “Super Mario Bros.”, Mario has become a cultural symbol, representing not only Nintendo, but the entire video game industry.

The series began as a 2D platform game in which the player controls the plumber Mario on his journey to rescue Princess Peach from the villain Bowser. With simple yet challenging gameplay and innovative design, Mario set the standard for platform games.

2.  The Legend of Zelda

The Legend of Zelda franchise, also created by Nintendo, occupies a prominent place in the video game industry. Mainly because of its engaging stories, vast worlds and, of course, innovative game mechanics.

Since its release in 1986, The Legend of Zelda has been a reference in terms of game design, influencing countless other series and setting new standards for action-adventure games. Without a doubt, the interplay between narrative, exploration and gameplay mechanics is what makes the game an exceptional franchise.

3.  GTA

The Grand Theft Auto (GTA) franchise, developed by Rockstar Games, is one of the most influential and controversial pillars of the video game industry. Since its release in 1997, GTA has revolutionized the way games are conceived, offering freedom of action and complex narratives that explore modern society.

Thus, the first title, “Grand Theft Auto”, introduced players to an open world where they could engage in various activities. In fact, the top-down perspective and the simple graphics were enough to captivate players and lay the foundation for what would become one of the biggest gaming franchises.

4.  FIFA

The FIFA franchise, developed by Electronic Arts (EA), is one of the longest-running and most successful sports game series in video game history. Since its inception in 1993, the FIFA series has been known for its realistic depiction of football.

In this way, the first game, “FIFA International Soccer”, took players to a digital football experience that sought to capture the excitement and dynamics of the world’s most popular sport. With isometric graphics and a relatively simple gameplay, the title established a foundation to grow and evolve.

5.  Assassin's Creed

The Assassin's Creed franchise, developed by Ubisoft, is one of the most renowned and successful game series in the video game industry. Since the release of the first title in 2007, the franchise has stood out for its unique blend of historical narrative, gameplay mechanics and detailed open worlds.

In this sense, set during the Third Crusade, the first game introduced players to the fight between two ancient secret societies. On one side the Assassins, who fight for peace and freedom, and on the other the Templars, who seek to control humanity through order and power.

6.  Call of Duty

The Call of Duty franchise, developed by Infinity Ward and published by Activision, stands out as one of the most successful and influential first-person shooter series in video game history.

So the first game in the series, “Call of Duty”, set in World War II, offered a realistic and intense vision of combat. In other words, it puts players in the role of Allied soldiers fighting against the Axis on several battlefronts.

7.  The Elder Scrolls

The Elder Scrolls franchise, developed by Bethesda Game Studios, stands out as one of the most influential RPG series. Since its launch in 1994, the series has won over a number of fans for offering open worlds, rich stories and freedom of exploration.

As such, “The Elder Scrolls: Arena” introduced players to the world of Tamriel, a fictional continent with multiple regions, each with its own culture, geography, and history. While the original game featured rudimentary graphics, it laid the foundation for the elements that would come to define the series.

These game franchises certainly dominated the market, but they also had a profound impact on popular culture, influencing other media and setting standards. Take advantage and also see which are the main ones Free Fire characters. Until later!