In the gaming world, a significant trend is capturing every enthusiast’s attention—a rise not just in the sheer volume of games available, with thousands hitting the market annually, but in the lasting impact major blockbusters have on players. These games are becoming more than just a purchase; they dominate players’ time and resources well beyond their release dates. It’s not just about live-service multiplayer games anymore. Recent sales figures reveal an intriguing fact: over a third of the top-selling games in 2024, such as the widely acclaimed Elden Ring, were actually launched years ago. This shows just how enduring and influential these titles are in the gaming landscape today. – Ethan Gach