18 Essential Landmark Titles Every Gamer Must Play

11. Portal

Portal represents something that doesn't always happen as often as it should in the video game industry: innovation. Truth be told, it's an extremely straightforward game, the only real aim being to hop between strategically placed portals to avoid almost certain death. But despite its simplicity, it's hopelessly addictive and at times mind-numbingly difficult. Like all great games should, it really challenges you. In a world of multi-million dollar blockbuster video games and enormous, breathtaking digital environments, Portal is notably low-key, it's minimalistic visual style being one of its main draws. It doesn't rely on aesthetics to keep you entertained oh no, the gameplay more than does that. It makes this list because it is a title that - even if it hasn't been yet - should be played by every gamer. It is a significant departure from any classic gameplay formula, making it a unique and necessary experience.