9 Best 10 Year-Old-Games That Still Feel Current Gen

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Ten years is a significant amount of time in gaming. Consider the difference between the early, blocky graphics of games like the original Tomb Raider and the beautifully artistic games we have today, such as Okami. Games, like everything else, quickly become dated as technology advances.

In the past few years, improvements in game art and technology have been more gradual. This means games are staying visually appealing and enjoyable for a longer time, even after newer versions are released. A new gaming generation doesn’t automatically make older games obsolete anymore.

Even older games can still be enjoyable, and many of them hold up remarkably well. They offer experiences that feel just as smooth and satisfying as newer titles.

Let’s revisit games from the past ten years that feel like they’re starting to become ‘retro’ and see which ones could still be mistaken for modern releases.

9. Battlefield 4

Can BF6 Compete?

As the release of Battlefield 6 approaches, it’s surprising how good Battlefield 4 still looks. Some fans excited for the new game are even saying Battlefield 4 is more visually impressive.

Many first-person shooter games from this time period had impressive graphics because developers were investing heavily in visual quality. Numerous companies were attempting to surpass Call of Duty in popularity, and Battlefield was consistently its strongest rival.

While the game looked great, its satisfying shooting mechanics, large-scale multiplayer options, and fresh approach—especially for players tired of the *Call of Duty* series—made it a standout title.

Although it’s not a hugely popular game – currently having around 1,000 players online – it’s surprisingly well-made and still enjoyable. Player numbers will likely decrease significantly when the new Battlefield game is released, but it deserves recognition for its quality.

8. Crysis

Can You Run It?

For years, Crysis was the gold standard for stunning graphics and visual quality. It was so demanding that very few computers could actually run it smoothly when it first came out. Remarkably, even today, the game still looks fantastic.

I wasn’t ever a huge fan of the Crysis games – they never really struck me as groundbreaking first-person shooters. However, you have to acknowledge that they were ahead of their time technologically, offering features and graphics that most other games couldn’t match.

Back then, the way the environments could be completely destroyed was incredible. The game’s lighting, shadows, and textures were noticeably better than anything else out there. Small touches, like realistic water effects, how plants moved, and many other details, really made the world feel believable.

While many first-person shooters have since pushed the boundaries of graphics, this game remains a stunning visual achievement, even after 19 years, and deserves to be recognized for that.

7. Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor

One Does Not Simply Walk Into Mordor…

Creating a truly memorable game doesn’t always require top-of-the-line graphics or a movie-like feel. While those things can be great, a unique and innovative gameplay idea can be enough to really grab players and make your game a classic.

It’s unfortunate that a patent prevents other games from copying the fantastic Nemesis system in Shadow of Mordor. However, this may have ultimately solidified the game’s status as a classic, and it’s helped it maintain a uniquely modern feel that no other game has managed to achieve.

Despite its intense and action-packed combat, the game also beautifully captures the world of Tolkien, offering stunning graphics and a fresh story set in the often-overlooked land of Mordor.

The game’s color scheme is quite grounded and may not appeal to everyone. However, it still looks fantastic and is incredibly fun to play. Think of it as a blend of the Arkham series set in the Lord of the Rings universe, enhanced by the engaging nemesis system. It’s a winning combination!

6. Infamous: Second Son

No Cole, But Still Cool

Let me be clear: I think Second Son is the least impressive of the Infamous games. But even as the weakest entry in the series, it’s still a remarkably good game, and Delsin Rowe is a standout character.

Although it doesn’t quite reach the heights of Cole’s previous games, this is still a fantastic open-world action game where you play as a superhero. It’s packed with content, features incredibly smooth and enjoyable movement, and looks amazing with up-to-date graphics.

Even though Second Son came out with the PS4, it still looks amazing – honestly, the graphics hold up against a lot of newer games. And the prequel, First Light, is just as beautiful; everything is really crisp and clear.

The gameplay isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s still an enjoyable experience, and it holds up visually. If this game came out now, it would still feel current.

5. The Last of Us: Remastered

Don’t Remaster It Again!

The original Last of Us Remaster was incredibly well-received. So, when a new remaster/remake was announced, many gamers were understandably confused and wondered why it was necessary.

The first game was already stunning, boasting realistic motion capture, impressive graphics, and acting that rivaled a major movie. This remaster further enhances the experience, updating the game – originally made for the PlayStation 3 – with modern improvements.

The recent remake of Part One definitely looks sharper, but the visual improvements are quite small. The original game still holds up beautifully.

Beyond its impressive graphics, this game is a truly groundbreaking survival horror experience with a remarkably well-crafted story. Its overall quality is so high that it easily holds its own against modern games, even without considering how it looks.

4. Rise of the Tomb Raider

New Look Lara

It seems like people have started to forget how great the recent Tomb Raider reboots were after the initial excitement died down. These games really redefined Lara Croft, telling a more compelling and mature story, and looking significantly better than the original PlayStation games with their outdated graphics.

Rise of the Tomb Raider really stands out as a high point for the recent Lara Croft games. It delivered thrilling action and, even years later, still looks fantastic.

This game stays true to the classic Tomb Raider formula, with plenty of platforming, puzzles, and action. What’s impressive is how modern it feels – you won’t feel like you’re playing an outdated game. If you haven’t experienced the recent Tomb Raider adventures yet, now is a great time to jump in!

3. Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag

A Pirate’s Life For Me

Some players might notice that Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag occasionally looks a bit dated, and it’s understandable. However, if you consider the game as a whole, it still looks fantastic despite a few small imperfections.

I still believe this is the best Assassin’s Creed game ever made. Its exciting pirate adventures, vast world, and beautiful graphics really set it apart.

As a pirate adventure, this game really delivers when it comes to realistic water. But it’s not just that – the whole game looks fantastic and features a compelling story, plus a ton of other great content.

I still think a remaster would be great for this game, and it truly deserves one. However, even without a remake, it remains an incredibly strong title and is likely one of the best pirate games ever made.

2. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain

Sneaky Little Snake

People often say to make a big impression when you do something for the last time. While Hideo Kojima didn’t initially know *Metal Gear Solid V* would be his final game in the series, he definitely created a memorable and fitting conclusion.

Metal Gear Solid V is a somewhat controversial game among fans. Many feel the story isn’t as well-structured as previous titles, likely because Hideo Kojima, the game’s creator, was unexpectedly removed from the project by Konami and didn’t have the chance to fully refine it.

Despite any drawbacks, this game is undeniably one of the most rewarding, strategically engaging, and fun stealth games released in recent years, and it’s visually stunning as well.

Okay, I get that seeing desert landscapes in games like Afghanistan and Angola can start to feel a bit samey after a while. But honestly, this game *really* shows off what current-generation consoles can do, and it’s easily my favorite installment in the whole series. I just love it!

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Toss A Coin

As a huge gamer, I honestly think The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is *the* game that deserves all the praise. Even with all the amazing new releases like Ghost of Yotei and the upcoming Silent Hill F, I still believe if The Witcher 3 came out *today*, it would be the only game anyone would be talking about. It’s just that good!

This game is widely considered one of the greatest Western open-world RPGs of all time. Its strengths lie in its exceptional writing, compelling quests, detailed world, challenging moral choices, and engaging combat system.

The game’s art style is still remarkably beautiful today, standing alongside the best modern games even though it was originally released in 2015. And the ‘Blood and Wine’ expansion actually looks even more impressive, with its brighter and more colorful visuals.

Honestly, if I had to pick one game from this list that will *always* be amazing, it’s this one. And if you haven’t played it yet, seriously, you’re doing yourself a disservice – you need to jump in and experience this classic RPG as soon as possible!

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2025-10-08 18:46