Crotchety Gamer's Series Tier List: The Ultimate Ranking

Hey guys, gather 'round the holographic campfire, because your friendly neighborhood crotchety old gamer is here to drop some truth bombs about video game series. Forget your fancy graphics and your open-world shenanigans for a minute. We're going back to the good ol' days… or at least analyzing them with the jaded eyes of someone who's seen it all. We're diving deep into the pantheon of gaming franchises, sorting the legendary from the, well, less-than-legendary. Buckle up, because this is my Series Tier List, and I'm not pulling any punches. You might agree, you might disagree, but you will hear me out! Think of this as your ultimate guide to navigating the vast world of video game series, filtered through the lens of a gamer who remembers when pixels were chunky and load times were measured in minutes. We'll be dissecting everything from gameplay mechanics to narrative depth, and even the elusive 'fun factor'. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and prepare for a nostalgic journey through the annals of gaming history. We'll be tackling the big names, the cult classics, and even a few hidden gems that deserve a spot in the spotlight. This isn't just about ranking games; it's about celebrating the evolution of a medium we all love, and maybe sparking a few friendly debates along the way. After all, what's the point of having opinions if you can't share them with the world? Let's kick things off with a look at the criteria I'll be using to judge these series. It's not just about nostalgia, guys. We're talking about a holistic assessment of each franchise, taking into account its impact on the industry, its consistency in quality, and its overall staying power. From the revolutionary gameplay of Super Mario to the sprawling narratives of Final Fantasy, we'll leave no stone unturned. So, without further ado, let's jump into the tiers!

The Tier System: A Crochety Gamer's Hierarchy

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the tier list itself, let's break down the categories. I'm not messing around with a simple A-F system here. We need nuance, guys! So, I've devised a more… refined system, shall we say. This tier system, born from years of passionate gaming and even more years of complaining about games that don't live up to the hype, is designed to accurately reflect the quality and impact of each series. It's not just about how much I enjoyed a particular game; it's about the overall legacy of the franchise, its influence on the industry, and its ability to stand the test of time. Think of it as a historical record of gaming greatness, with a healthy dose of personal opinion sprinkled in for good measure. The S Tier is reserved for the absolute titans of the industry. We're talking about series that have not only consistently delivered exceptional games but have also pushed the boundaries of what's possible in the medium. These are the franchises that have shaped gaming as we know it, setting standards for gameplay, storytelling, and world-building. They're the kind of series that you can recommend to anyone, regardless of their gaming background, and know that they'll be in for a treat. The A Tier is for those series that are amazing. Maybe they have a few hiccups along the way, or they haven't quite reached the heights of the S Tier, but they're still essential gaming experiences. These are the franchises that you'll happily revisit time and time again, discovering new nuances and appreciating the craftsmanship that went into their creation. They're the reliable stalwarts of the gaming world, consistently delivering quality and innovation. Moving on to the B Tier, we have the "Good, but not Great" category. These are series that have their moments of brilliance, but they might also suffer from inconsistency or a lack of innovation. They're the kind of franchises that you enjoy in the moment, but you might not necessarily think about them years later. They're the solid performers, the workhorses of the gaming world, but they lack that certain spark that elevates a series to true greatness. Now we get to the C Tier, which is "Could be Better." These series have potential, but they've either squandered it or haven't quite found their footing. They might have a few redeeming qualities, but they're ultimately forgettable. Think of these franchises as the underachievers of the gaming world, the ones that you root for but secretly know aren't going to win the championship. Finally, we have the dreaded D Tier. These are the series that have consistently disappointed, with poor gameplay, uninspired stories, or just plain bad execution. They're the kind of franchises that you actively avoid, warning your friends to steer clear. They're the black sheep of the gaming world, the ones that you'd rather forget ever existed. So, there you have it, guys – my tier system in all its crotchety glory. Now that we've established the framework, let's dive into the series themselves and see where they land. Prepare for some surprises, some disagreements, and maybe even a few revelations. This is going to be fun!

S Tier: The Gods of Gaming

Alright, let's talk about the S Tier: the absolute legends, the untouchables, the series that define gaming greatness. These aren't just games; they're cultural touchstones, influencing everything from other games to movies and even music. To earn a spot in this hallowed echelon, a series needs to consistently deliver exceptional experiences across multiple entries, innovate within its genre, and leave a lasting impact on the industry. We're talking about series that you can pick up years later and still be blown away by their quality and design. Think of them as the Mount Rushmore of gaming, the faces that everyone recognizes and respects. First up, we have the Super Mario franchise. Guys, this one's a no-brainer, right? Mario isn't just a character; he's a gaming icon. From the revolutionary side-scrolling of the original Super Mario Bros. to the groundbreaking 3D platforming of Super Mario 64 and the sheer inventiveness of Super Mario Odyssey, this series has consistently redefined what platforming can be. Each entry brings something new to the table, whether it's a clever mechanic, a memorable world, or a charming cast of characters. And let's not forget the sheer joy of movement that Mario games offer. The feeling of perfectly timing a jump, of bouncing off enemies, of exploring hidden areas – it's pure gaming bliss. The influence of Mario is undeniable, and its consistent quality makes it an easy S Tier pick. Next, we have The Legend of Zelda. This series is the gold standard for action-adventure games, blending exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat into a seamless and unforgettable experience. From the sprawling open world of the original The Legend of Zelda to the epic scope of Ocarina of Time and the breathtaking beauty of Breath of the Wild, this franchise has consistently delivered masterpieces. The dungeons are ingeniously designed, the characters are memorable, and the world is always ripe for exploration. And let's not forget the iconic soundtrack, which has become synonymous with adventure and heroism. Zelda is a series that truly understands the power of player agency, allowing you to forge your own path and create your own adventure. It's a testament to the power of gaming as a storytelling medium. Then there's Grand Theft Auto. Love it or hate it, you can't deny the impact of this series. GTA revolutionized open-world gaming, giving players unprecedented freedom to explore, interact, and cause mayhem in sprawling, detailed cities. From the controversial but groundbreaking Grand Theft Auto III to the satirical masterpiece that is Grand Theft Auto V, this series has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in a video game. The stories are often gritty and thought-provoking, the characters are complex and flawed, and the gameplay is endlessly engaging. GTA is a cultural phenomenon, a series that has captured the imagination of millions and sparked countless debates about the role of violence in video games. It's a complex and controversial series, but its influence is undeniable.

A Tier: The Near-Perfect Players

The A Tier is where we find the almost-gods, the series that are amazing but not quite perfect. These are the franchises that have delivered countless hours of enjoyment, but might have a few flaws or inconsistencies that hold them back from reaching the S Tier. They're the kind of series that you'll recommend to friends without hesitation, but you might also preface your recommendation with a few caveats. Think of them as the all-star players of the gaming world, the ones who consistently perform at a high level but might not always be the MVPs. Kicking off our A Tier list is The Elder Scrolls. This series is renowned for its sprawling open worlds, its deep lore, and its unparalleled sense of freedom. From the groundbreaking The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind to the blockbuster hit The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, this franchise has consistently delivered immersive and engaging experiences. The ability to create your own character, explore a vast and detailed world, and forge your own destiny is a hallmark of the series. However, The Elder Scrolls games are also known for their bugs and glitches, which can sometimes detract from the overall experience. While the modding community has often stepped in to fix these issues, they can still be a point of frustration for some players. Despite these flaws, The Elder Scrolls remains a must-play series for fans of open-world RPGs. Next up, we have the Fallout franchise. Like The Elder Scrolls, Fallout is known for its open worlds, its deep lore, and its emphasis on player choice. However, Fallout sets itself apart with its post-apocalyptic setting, its dark humor, and its retro-futuristic aesthetic. From the classic Fallout 2 to the modern masterpiece Fallout: New Vegas, this series has consistently delivered memorable characters, compelling stories, and challenging gameplay. However, the Fallout series has also faced its share of criticism, particularly with the release of Fallout 76, which was plagued by bugs and performance issues. While Bethesda has worked to improve the game, it still remains a controversial entry in the franchise. Despite these setbacks, Fallout remains a beloved series among RPG fans. Moving on, we have the Metal Gear Solid series. This franchise is a masterclass in stealth gameplay, cinematic storytelling, and thought-provoking themes. From the groundbreaking Metal Gear Solid on the PlayStation to the epic scope of Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, this series has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in video games. Hideo Kojima's unique vision and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of the games, from the intricate level design to the complex characters and the philosophical themes explored in the narrative. However, the Metal Gear Solid series can also be polarizing, with its long cutscenes and convoluted plotlines. Some players find these elements to be essential to the experience, while others find them to be tedious and unnecessary. Despite these criticisms, Metal Gear Solid remains a landmark series in the history of gaming. Another A Tier contender is the Mass Effect trilogy. This series is a triumph of science fiction storytelling, with its memorable characters, its compelling narrative, and its impactful choices. The original Mass Effect trilogy is widely regarded as one of the greatest video game series of all time, with its rich lore, its engaging gameplay, and its emotionally resonant story. However, the series has faced criticism for the ending of Mass Effect 3, which was seen by some as a disappointing conclusion to the epic saga. While BioWare has since released an extended cut of the ending, it remains a point of contention among fans. Despite this controversy, the Mass Effect trilogy remains a must-play for fans of science fiction RPGs. And last but not least in the A Tier, we have the Dark Souls series. This franchise is known for its challenging gameplay, its intricate level design, and its cryptic lore. From the groundbreaking Demon's Souls to the critically acclaimed Dark Souls III, this series has consistently delivered punishing but rewarding experiences. The difficulty of the Dark Souls games is a defining characteristic, but it's also what makes them so satisfying to play. Overcoming a seemingly insurmountable challenge is a core part of the Dark Souls experience, and it's what makes the games so addictive. However, the difficulty of the series can also be a barrier to entry for some players. Despite its challenging nature, Dark Souls has become a phenomenon, inspiring countless other games and solidifying its place as a modern classic.

B Tier: Good, but Not Great

Now we're entering the B Tier, the land of good but not great. These series have solid foundations, maybe even some flashes of brilliance, but they ultimately fall short of the A and S tiers. They might suffer from inconsistency, lack of innovation, or just a general feeling of being "okay." They're the reliable workhorses of the gaming world, but they lack that certain spark that elevates a series to true greatness. Think of them as the players who consistently make the team but rarely become stars. Let's start with the Assassin's Creed franchise. This series had a phenomenal start, with the first few games offering a unique blend of stealth, parkour, and historical fiction. The concept of exploring historical settings and engaging in assassin missions was incredibly compelling, and the early games in the series were truly groundbreaking. However, the Assassin's Creed franchise has suffered from inconsistency in recent years. While some entries, like Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag and Assassin's Creed: Odyssey, have been well-received, others have been criticized for their repetitive gameplay, their bloated open worlds, and their reliance on microtransactions. The series has also struggled to maintain a consistent narrative direction, with some storylines feeling disjointed and underdeveloped. Despite these issues, Assassin's Creed remains a popular franchise, and its historical settings and engaging gameplay still have a lot to offer. Moving on, we have the Call of Duty series. This franchise has dominated the first-person shooter genre for years, with its fast-paced action, its addictive multiplayer, and its cinematic campaigns. The Call of Duty games are known for their polished gameplay, their impressive graphics, and their bombastic set pieces. However, the Call of Duty series has also been criticized for its annual release schedule, which has led to a feeling of stagnation and a lack of innovation. Many fans feel that the games have become too formulaic, with each new entry offering only minor tweaks to the gameplay and the overall structure. Despite these criticisms, Call of Duty remains a commercial juggernaut, and its multiplayer component is still incredibly popular. Next up, we have the Final Fantasy series. This franchise is a cornerstone of the Japanese role-playing game (JRPG) genre, with its epic stories, its memorable characters, and its beautiful music. The Final Fantasy games are known for their turn-based combat, their intricate character progression systems, and their fantastical worlds. However, the Final Fantasy series has also been criticized for its inconsistency in quality. Some entries, like Final Fantasy VI and Final Fantasy VII, are considered masterpieces, while others have been met with a more lukewarm reception. The series has also experimented with different gameplay styles in recent years, which has alienated some long-time fans. Despite these ups and downs, Final Fantasy remains a beloved series among JRPG enthusiasts. Another B Tier contender is the Resident Evil franchise. This series is a pioneer of the survival horror genre, with its tense atmosphere, its challenging puzzles, and its terrifying enemies. The Resident Evil games are known for their resource management, their limited inventory space, and their emphasis on exploration. However, the Resident Evil series has also undergone some significant changes over the years. The early games in the series focused on slow-paced, puzzle-solving gameplay, while later entries have leaned more towards action and shooting. This shift in focus has divided fans, with some preferring the classic style of gameplay and others embracing the more action-oriented approach. Despite these changes, Resident Evil remains a significant force in the horror genre. And finally, in the B Tier, we have the Uncharted series. This franchise is known for its cinematic presentation, its charismatic characters, and its thrilling action sequences. The Uncharted games are heavily inspired by action-adventure movies like Indiana Jones, and they deliver a similar sense of excitement and adventure. However, the Uncharted series has also been criticized for its reliance on cover-based shooting and its predictable storylines. While the games are visually stunning and technically impressive, some players find them to be lacking in depth and originality. Despite these criticisms, Uncharted remains a popular and well-regarded series.

C Tier: Could Be Better

We've now arrived at the C Tier: the realm of "Could Be Better." These series aren't terrible, but they're far from great. They show flashes of potential, but consistently stumble due to poor execution, uninspired ideas, or just plain mediocrity. These are the series you might pick up on sale, play for a few hours, and then forget about entirely. Think of them as the benchwarmers of the gaming world – they're there, but they're not making any game-winning plays. Kicking off the C Tier is the Dead Island series. The original Dead Island had a killer trailer, promising an emotional and gripping zombie survival experience. The reality? A buggy, repetitive, and ultimately forgettable slog through a tropical resort overrun with the undead. While the melee-focused combat had some satisfying moments, the poor story, generic characters, and technical issues dragged the game down. Dead Island: Riptide didn't fare much better, offering more of the same without any significant improvements. The series had potential, but it failed to deliver on its initial promise. Next up, we have the Homefront franchise. The original Homefront had an interesting premise: North Korea invades the United States. However, the game failed to capitalize on this intriguing setup, offering a short, uninspired campaign with forgettable characters and generic gameplay. Homefront: The Revolution attempted to reboot the series, but it was plagued by technical issues and a lack of polish. The open-world setting felt empty and uninspired, and the gameplay was repetitive and unfulfilling. The Homefront series is a prime example of a franchise with a good idea that was ultimately squandered. Moving on, we have the Duke Nukem series. The original Duke Nukem 3D was a landmark first-person shooter, known for its over-the-top action, its irreverent humor, and its iconic protagonist. However, the series has struggled to recapture the magic of its predecessor. Duke Nukem Forever was in development for over a decade and was ultimately released to widespread criticism. The game felt dated, its humor fell flat, and its gameplay was clunky and uninspired. The Duke Nukem series is a cautionary tale of how nostalgia can blind developers to the need for innovation and quality. Another C Tier contender is the Dynasty Warriors franchise. This series is known for its Musou-style gameplay, which involves controlling a powerful character and mowing down hordes of enemies. The Dynasty Warriors games can be mindless fun in short bursts, but they quickly become repetitive and monotonous. The stories are often convoluted and difficult to follow, and the characters are largely interchangeable. While the series has a dedicated fanbase, it's difficult to recommend to anyone looking for a deep or engaging gaming experience. And finally, in the C Tier, we have the Rage series. The original Rage was a visually stunning post-apocalyptic shooter with a unique art style and fast-paced combat. However, the game's story was underdeveloped, its characters were forgettable, and its open-world elements felt tacked on. Rage 2 attempted to address some of these issues, offering a more open and vibrant world with improved gameplay. However, the game's story was still weak, and its repetitive missions and generic villains ultimately held it back. The Rage series is a case of style over substance, a franchise that looks great but lacks the depth and substance to truly shine.

D Tier: The Disappointments

Finally, we reach the D Tier, the absolute bottom of the barrel. These are the series that consistently disappoint, offering little to no redeeming qualities. They're the games you regret buying, the ones you warn your friends to avoid. These franchises are the black sheep of the gaming world, the ones we'd all rather forget ever existed. Think of them as the players who consistently fumble the ball, the ones who never make it off the bench. Let's kick off this list with the infamous Superman 64. Widely regarded as one of the worst video games of all time, Superman 64 is a masterclass in bad game design. From its atrocious graphics to its frustrating controls and its repetitive missions, the game is a complete disaster from start to finish. The infamous ring-flying sections are a particular low point, showcasing the game's clunky controls and its lack of polish. Superman 64 is a cautionary tale of how a beloved character can be completely mishandled in a video game adaptation. Next up, we have the Ride to Hell series. Ride to Hell: Retribution is a notorious action game that is widely criticized for its poor graphics, its terrible gameplay, and its offensive content. The game's story is nonsensical, its characters are unlikable, and its action sequences are laughably bad. The game is also riddled with technical issues, making it a chore to play. Ride to Hell: Retribution is a prime example of a game that should never have been released. Moving on, we have the Yaris series. Yes, a game based on a car. Yaris is a downloadable racing game that was released as a promotional tie-in for the Toyota Yaris. The game is incredibly shallow, offering little to no gameplay depth. The graphics are simplistic, the controls are unresponsive, and the overall experience is dull and uninspired. Yaris is a perfect example of a promotional game that fails to deliver any real entertainment value. Another D Tier contender is the Big Rigs series. Big Rigs: Over the Road Racing is a notoriously bad racing game that is famous for its numerous bugs and glitches. The game's physics are completely broken, allowing players to drive through buildings and even off the edge of the map. The graphics are atrocious, the controls are clunky, and the overall experience is a mess. Big Rigs is a cult classic among fans of bad video games, but it's definitely not worth playing for any other reason. And finally, in the D Tier, we have the Double Dragon series, specifically its more recent entries. While the original Double Dragon games were classic beat-'em-ups, the series has struggled to maintain its relevance in recent years. Double Dragon V: The Shadow Falls is a fighting game that is widely regarded as one of the worst in the genre, with its stiff animations, its unbalanced gameplay, and its generic characters. More recent entries in the series have also failed to impress, leaving the Double Dragon franchise in a state of disrepair. The legacy of a once-great series tarnished by poor execution and uninspired design. So, there you have it, guys. My Series Tier List from a crotchety old gamer's perspective. I know some of you might disagree with my rankings, and that's perfectly fine. Gaming is a subjective experience, and what one person considers a masterpiece, another might consider a dud. The important thing is that we can all appreciate the rich history of video games and the many amazing series that have shaped the medium we love.

Final Thoughts from Your Crotchety Old Gamer

Well, guys, we've reached the end of our epic journey through the vast landscape of video game series. We've traversed the S Tier peaks of gaming greatness, navigated the A Tier's near-perfect landscapes, trudged through the B Tier's mixed bag of experiences, and even braved the treacherous terrain of the C and D Tiers. It's been a long and winding road, filled with nostalgia, debate, and maybe even a few moments of revelation. As your crotchety old gamer guide, I hope I've provided some insight into the world of gaming franchises, offering a perspective that blends historical context with a healthy dose of personal opinion. This tier list isn't meant to be the definitive word on the subject, of course. It's simply one gamer's take on the series that have shaped my gaming life and the industry as a whole. Your own tier list might look very different, and that's perfectly okay! The beauty of gaming is that there's something for everyone, and our individual preferences and experiences will always influence our perceptions. What I hope this exercise has accomplished is to spark some discussion and encourage you to think critically about the series you love (and the ones you love to hate). Why do we gravitate towards certain franchises? What makes a series truly great? What are the elements that contribute to a lasting legacy in the gaming world? These are the questions that keep us engaged in the ongoing conversation about video games, and they're the questions that will continue to shape the future of the medium. Looking back at the series we've discussed, it's clear that the gaming landscape has changed dramatically over the years. From the simple pixelated graphics of the early consoles to the breathtaking realism of modern games, the evolution of technology has allowed developers to create experiences that were once unimaginable. But while technology has undoubtedly played a crucial role in the progress of gaming, it's important to remember that the core of any great series lies in its gameplay, its story, and its characters. A visually stunning game can be impressive, but if it lacks a compelling narrative or engaging mechanics, it will ultimately fall short. The series that have truly stood the test of time are those that have managed to blend technical innovation with artistic vision, creating worlds and characters that resonate with players on an emotional level. Think about the iconic characters we've encountered on this journey – Mario, Link, Solid Snake, Commander Shepard – these are characters who have become more than just pixels on a screen. They've become cultural icons, symbols of the gaming medium itself. And the worlds they inhabit – Hyrule, the Mushroom Kingdom, the post-apocalyptic Wasteland – are places that many of us have come to know and love as much as our own. So, as we wrap up this tier list, I encourage you to continue exploring the vast and ever-expanding world of video game series. Discover new franchises, revisit old favorites, and don't be afraid to challenge your own preconceived notions. Gaming is a journey, not a destination, and there's always something new to discover around the next corner. And remember, guys, even if you disagree with my rankings, we can still share a virtual high-five and celebrate the amazing world of video games together. Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I hear my console calling… It's time for this crotchety old gamer to dive back into the digital realm. Game on!