6 Video Games Fans Refuse to Let Die

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Lots of new video games are released every year, and even popular titles often disappear from public attention relatively quickly. However, some games build incredibly loyal fanbases that keep them alive for years. Through repeat playthroughs, sharing memes, and simply talking about the game whenever they can, fans can extend a game’s popularity far beyond what’s typical. This is particularly remarkable when a game hasn’t received updates or sequels in a long time, demonstrating just how much players can love and support a truly great game.

There’s no single reason why some games stay popular for years. Sometimes, they’re endlessly replayable, and other times, it’s just because they’re full of fun, shareable moments. Often, it’s also about nostalgia – a game becoming a cherished memory for a generation of players. These six games, however, have staying power because of a unique combination of all these factors, and more.

6) Super Smash Bros. Melee

Originally released for the Nintendo GameCube in 2001, this installment is part of the popular Super Smash Bros. series. While Super Smash Bros. Brawl came out in 2008 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in 2018, many fans still frequently discuss and enjoy the 2001 version, often called Melee.

For a lot of fans, including me, this second Super Smash Bros. game really hit its stride. It improved on the original’s gameplay and had a great selection of characters without becoming overly complicated. While later games added more features, some people think those changes actually made the game less enjoyable. Even though it’s hard to play on newer consoles like the Switch, many fans still prefer to fire up their old GameCubes for a classic Melee experience instead of playing the newer versions.

5) The Sims 3

Okay, so The Sims 4 is getting pretty old now – it’s been out for 11 years! But honestly, a lot of us are still totally obsessed with The Sims 3. When it came out in 2009, having that fully open world was a huge deal for the game, and it felt amazing. When The Sims 4 came along, those loading screens just felt… frustrating. It kind of took away from the experience, and a lot of us just haven’t been able to move on!

Although The Sims 3 no longer receives large official updates, it’s still easy to find on Steam and the EA App. Many players continue to enjoy this older version of the life simulation game, even with newer, actively updated options available. Dedicated modders also continue to create new content for The Sims 3, keeping the game fresh and appealing for its loyal fanbase.

4) The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

Though released way back in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, Ocarina of Time—a game in the Legend of Zelda series—continues to be a fan favorite. While not flawless, it’s considered by many to be near perfection, earning a remarkable 99/100 score on Metacritic. As the first 3D Zelda game, it was hugely influential and remains a cherished gaming experience for a lot of players.

Ocarina of Time is a beloved classic and introduced many players to the Legend of Zelda series. Its memorable music, iconic scenes, and overall quality have kept it popular for years. Now, with its addition to the Nintendo Switch Online library of N64 games, fans can easily relive the experience and enjoy the nostalgia all over again.

3) Stardew Valley

This independent game is now considered the best of its kind when it comes to farming simulations. Surprisingly, it originally launched in 2016, and is nearing its 10-year anniversary. Its continued success is thanks to the developer, ConcernedApe, consistently adding new features and releasing it on different systems. However, the game’s dedicated fanbase has also played a huge role in keeping it popular for the last decade.

Stardew Valley has an incredibly dedicated fanbase. Many players own the game on several different devices and often find themselves wanting to begin a new farm. It consistently ranks among Steam’s best-selling titles, and despite the release of numerous other farming simulation games each year, fans continue to say nothing else compares. This enduring popularity keeps Stardew Valley relevant and beloved long after its initial release.

2) Grand Theft Auto 5

Fans have been eagerly awaiting Grand Theft Auto 6 for a long time. GTA 5 came out in 2013 and has been re-released on newer consoles since then. The sequel has faced several delays, contributing to GTA 5‘s continued popularity over the years as players continue to enjoy it while waiting for the next installment.

Even after more than 12 years, people are still actively playing GTA 5. The game boasts both a detailed single-player story and online multiplayer, and regularly attracts over 140,000 players on Steam each day – between the original release and the Enhanced Edition. It’s clear that GTA 5 remains incredibly popular with gamers.

1) Skyrim

Like many gamers, I still play Skyrim, and I’m definitely not the only one! This open-world game is incredibly replayable, with so much to explore. Even though it came out 14 years ago, people are still talking about it and making memes. Bethesda has helped keep it alive with new releases and downloadable content, but Skyrim has become something special all on its own. From famous moments like stealing sweet rolls and the iconic “arrow to the knee,” to its quirky stealth features, Skyrim has become a core part of gaming culture.

Elder Scrolls fans were thrilled when Oblivion Remastered was unexpectedly released earlier this year, but many have quickly returned to playing Skyrim. While we eagerly await Elder Scrolls 6, Skyrim remains a much-loved RPG that players continue to enjoy despite its imperfections. It’s a classic that gamers aren’t ready to give up on.

What’s a game you still love playing, even after all this time? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2025-11-15 00:13