25 Greatest Video Game Box Art Of All Time

1. Gradius (NES)

Box Art
Konami

A single ship up against overwhelming odds – everything you need to know about the game in a nutshell, wonderfully sensationalised in this fantastic illustration originally released in 1985 in arcades. Later, the image was adapted and repurposed for home consoles, the NES version standing out in particular.

Without a doubt, this might be the single greatest cover illustration ever released, emphasising everything positive about the experience, and drawing parallels between the greatest of space operas in the process. It’s overblown and sensationalised, but breathtakingly exhilarating – helping to bring the game to life before you’ve even started playing.

Contributor
Contributor

Formerly an assistant editor, Richard's interests include detective fiction and Japanese horror movies.