Best Selling Video Games of 2014: The Top List

The gaming frenzy of 2014 brought an overwhelming surge of top-selling releases that kept players glued to their screens across various platforms. Whether you were immersed in cutting-edge adventures on the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One or indulging in nostalgic delights on the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, the gaming landscape catered to enthusiasts of all kinds. Even the last-gen consoles—Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii—joined the party, leaving gamers both elated and nursing their bruised bank accounts. With so many exceptional titles vying for attention, navigating this digital playground became a daunting task.

Join us as we rewind the clock to the gaming zenith of 2014, reliving the triumphs and challenges of the releases that captured the essence of an era and earned their place as timeless classics. From epic sagas to heart-pounding adventures, these games etched themselves into the fabric of gaming history, ensuring their legacy persists well beyond the initial whirlwind of their release. Let’s peel back the layers of pixels and bytes, uncovering the untold success stories behind the best-selling video games that hit the shelves in 2014.

The Top 10 Best-Selling Video Games released in 2014

Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare (360, XBOX, PS4, PS3, PC)

Release Date: November 4, 2014

Developer: Sledgehammer Games

The Call of Duty series has stood the test of time, spanning more than a decade and evolving seamlessly across three console generations. From World War II battles to modern combat scenarios, this gaming franchise has consistently adapted to the changing landscape. Advanced Warfare, propels players into a futuristic setting where jetpacks and hovering grenades redefine military technology. In line with the series’ annual releases, Advanced Warfare is poised to continue the tradition of being a best-seller. As it explores new frontiers in virtual warfare, Call of Duty enthusiasts can expect another thrilling chapter that blends innovation with the trademark adrenaline-pumping action that defines the Call of Duty experience. Get ready for a gaming adventure that combines the familiar with the cutting-edge.

Madden NFL 15 (360, PS4, XBOX, PS3)

Release Date: August 26, 2014

Developer: EA Tiburon

The game underwent a significant presentation overhaul, with improved graphics and more realistic player models. The introduction of dynamic pre-game and halftime shows added to the overall immersive experience.Madden NFL 15 introduced several enhancements to defensive gameplay, aiming to make defense more engaging and strategic. The introduction of the “War in the Trenches 2.0” system added more realistic interactions between offensive and defensive linemen. The top-selling video game of 2014 continued to refine the Connected Franchise mode, allowing players to take control of a team as a player, coach, or owner and lead them through multiple seasons. This mode aimed to offer a deep and immersive experience for players who enjoy managing every aspect of a football team.

Destiny (XBOX, PS4, 360, PS3)

Release Date: September 9, 2014

Developer: Bungie

Destiny was described as a “shared world shooter,” combining elements of traditional first-person shooters with MMO elements. It featured a persistent online world where players could interact with each other in a seamless, dynamic environment. The game’s narrative revolves around the Traveler, a mysterious celestial being that grants special abilities to Guardians. The Last City, the game’s central hub, serves as a gathering place for players and is located beneath the Traveler. Players were accompanied by an AI companion known as the Ghost, voiced by actor Peter Dinklage. The Ghost served as a guide, providing information about the game world and assisting in various activities. Building on the success of the best selling video games of 2014, Bungie released Destiny 2 in 2017, which continued the story and introduced new gameplay mechanics and improvements.

FIFA 15 (360, PS4, XBOX, PS3, Wii, 3DS, PSV)

Release Date: September 23, 2014

Developer: EA Canada

As the top-selling video game released in 2014, FIFA 15 introduced the concept of “Emotional Intelligence,” which aimed to make players on the virtual pitch more responsive and lifelike. Players would now react to in-game events, such as missed opportunities, tackles, and goals, with a wider range of emotions, adding a new layer of realism. The “Living Pitch” feature was introduced to make the playing surface more dynamic. The pitch would now show wear and tear over the course of a match, affecting the ball’s movement and the players’ interactions with the ground. FIFA 15 introduced more realistic team tactics and strategies, allowing players to implement a broader range of playing styles. This added depth to the gameplay and provided users with more options for customizing their approach on the field. In collaboration with the English Premier League (BPL), FIFA 15 featured an authentic BPL presentation package, including accurate stadiums, overlays, and broadcast elements. This contributed to a more immersive experience when playing matches involving BPL teams.

Watch Dogs (PS4, XBOX, 360, PS3, PC, NWU)

Release Date: May 27, 2014

Developer: Ubisoft Montreal

The best-selling video game of 2014, Watch Dogs was known for its unique hacking-focused gameplay. Players controlled Aiden Pearce, a skilled hacker, and could manipulate the in-game city of Chicago by hacking into various electronic systems, including traffic lights, security cameras, and communication devices. The game featured an expansive open-world recreation of Chicago, offering a detailed and dynamic environment for players to explore. The city was filled with diverse neighborhoods, landmarks, and a day-night cycle that affected both gameplay and visuals.Despite the controversy surrounding the graphics downgrade, the game was both a critical and commercial success. It became one of the best-selling new intellectual properties at the time of its release. Later Watch Dogs became a franchise, with sequels such as Watch Dogs 2 and Watch Dogs: Legion. The series also expanded into other forms of media, including novels and comics, to further explore the game’s universe.

Grand Theft Auto V (PS4, XBOX, 360, PS3)

Release Date: September 17, 2013

Developer: Rockstar North

Grand Theft Auto V  was originally released in 2013 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. A new version of the game was released on November 18 for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, this updated version featured improved graphics, additional content, and various enhancements specifically designed for the newer gaming consoles. GTA V achieved incredible success in terms of sales, grossing over $1 billion within the first three days of its release. It became one of the fastest-selling entertainment products in history. The PC version was released on April 14, 2015, after a delay. The PC version allowed for enhanced graphics and mod support, further extending the game’s longevity. Grand Theft Auto V remains one of the most successful and influential video games in the industry, and its popularity continues years after its initial release.

Minecraft (360, PS3, XBOX, PS4)

Release Date: November 18, 2011

Developer: Mojang

Minecraft, originally an indie game, has transcended its humble origins to become a global phenomenon and best-seller, thanks to its distinctive and captivating gameplay. Plunging players into a randomly generated world comprised of textured cubes, the objective is clear: survive. When night falls, creatures emerge, challenging players to scavenge for resources, construct shelters, and unleash their creativity in a digital universe akin to a vast expanse of Lego bricks. Although the original PC edition stands as the definitive Minecraft experience, the Xbox One version has emerged as the next-best gateway to the game’s expansive worlds, multiplayer co-op, and boundless possibilities. Offering a seamless console experience, it allows players to delve into the immersive landscapes and collaborative potential that have become synonymous with Minecraft. 

Super Smash Bros. (3DS, Wii U)

Release Date: October 3, 2014

Developer: Sora Ltd., Bandai Namco Games

This installment marked the first time that a Super Smash Bros. game was released simultaneously for both a handheld (Nintendo 3DS) and a home console (Wii U). Both versions of the game shared the same character roster but featured unique stages. The 3DS version had stages inspired by handheld games, while the Wii U version had stages based on console titles. Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS introduced amiibo functionality. Players could use amiibo figures to train and customize computer-controlled fighters, creating personalized AI opponents. For the first time in the series, players could create and customize Mii characters to use as fighters. Mii Fighters could be customized with different movesets, representing different fighter archetypes. A significant new feature was the ability to have eight players simultaneously in certain modes, offering chaotic and intense battles on larger stages. Being one of the best video games of 2014, Super Smash Bros. received positive reviews for its diverse character roster, balanced gameplay, and the inclusion of new features.

NBA 2K15 (PS4, XBOX, 360, PS3, PC)

Release Date: October 10, 2014

Developer: Visual Concepts

NBA 2K15 introduced a robust story mode for the MyCareer feature, written and directed by filmmaker Spike Lee. The story, titled “Livin’ Da Dream,” followed a player named Frequency Vibrations (Freq) as he navigates through his rookie season in the NBA. The game introduced a face scanning feature that allowed players to use the camera on their gaming console (PlayStation Camera or Kinect) to create a custom face for their MyPlayer character. This technology aimed to provide a more realistic and personalized gaming experience.NBA 2K15 received positive reviews for its realistic gameplay, improved graphics, and the addition of the engaging MyCareer story mode. The top-selling video game featured improved presentation elements, including realistic player animations, lifelike crowd reactions, and dynamic commentary from the broadcast team, striving to replicate the atmosphere of an NBA game. The game was praised for its attention to detail and its efforts to capture the essence of professional basketball.

Call of Duty: Ghosts (360, PS3, XBOX, PS4, NWU, PC)

Release Date: November 5, 2013

Developer: Infinity Ward

Call of Duty: Ghosts was released during the transition period between the seventh (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3) and eighth (Xbox One, PlayStation 4) console generations. It was available on both generations of consoles, and players could upgrade to the next-gen version if they purchased the game on the previous generation. The game featured a new narrative focused on a fictional U.S. military unit called the Ghosts. The Ghosts became central to the storyline, battling against a powerful enemy known as the Federation in a post-apocalyptic setting. One of the standout features was the inclusion of a playable dog companion named Riley. Players could control Riley in certain missions, and he became an integral part of the Ghosts team, contributing to both the narrative and gameplay. Ghosts introduced dynamic map elements, such as earthquakes and floods, that could alter the landscape during multiplayer matches. This added an extra layer of strategy as players needed to adapt to changing environments. 

Top Selling Games of 2014: Navigating the Game-o-sphere

In the realm of gaming, the year 2014 left an indelible mark with a plethora of top-selling video games that captured the hearts and imaginations of players worldwide. From the futuristic battlegrounds of Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare to the endless creativity of Minecraft and the timeless appeal of Nintendo’s Super Smash Bros. on the Wii U, this was a year where gaming enthusiasts were spoiled for choice. As we reflect on the best-selling releases in 2014, it becomes evident that the industry not only thrived on innovation and cutting-edge experiences but also cherished the timeless charm of established franchises.

These games continue to resonate with players, their impact enduring well beyond their initial release. The legacy of the top-grossing video games released in 2014 serves as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the gaming industry, where each year brings forth a fresh wave of excitement and innovation. As we eagerly embrace the future of gaming, let’s not forget the gems that made 2014 a standout year for the best-selling video games in the digital world.

FAQ

What criteria were considered in determining the “best-selling” video games of 2014?

The determination of the best-selling video games in 2014 was primarily based on sales figures, both physical and digital, during the calendar year. These figures were obtained from reputable sources, industry reports, and official announcements by game developers and publishers.

Were all gaming platforms, including consoles and PC, considered in compiling the list of top-selling video games in 2014?

Yes, the compilation of the best-selling video games in 2014 took into account a broad spectrum of gaming platforms, including consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo, as well as PC releases. The goal was to encompass the diverse gaming landscape and recognize titles that resonated across various platforms.

Does the list of top-selling video games in 2014 take into account critical acclaim and player reviews, or is it solely based on sales figures?

While the primary criterion for compiling the list of top-selling video games in 2014 was sales performance, critical acclaim and player reviews were considered supplementary factors. The goal was to recognize games that not only achieved commercial success but also resonated positively with both critics and players, creating a more comprehensive representation of the impactful titles from that year.

by Bayan Ualikhanova