As the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) prepares for its 21st annual games awards, it has launched a public survey to identify the most influential video game of all time. This initiative invites people to nominate titles that have left an indelible mark on the gaming world. While some respondents highlight early pioneers like Space Invaders and Pong for shaping the industry's foundational principles, others emphasize personal experiences where specific games profoundly impacted their lives or careers. The nominations span various genres and eras, revealing how deeply intertwined video games are with both individual and collective cultural identities.

One of the nominees is Metal Gear Solid 2, which captivated Mike Bithell during his GCSE years. For him, this game symbolized a future where video games could engage players on a more intellectual level. Another nominee is PT, a short horror experience by Hideo Kojima and Guillermo del Toro, which resonated deeply with Louise Blain due to its innovative approach to creating fear through simplicity. Meanwhile, Keza MacDonald points out The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time as a groundbreaking title that not only set standards for 3D exploration but also introduced emotional depth into storytelling.

Beyond these examples, other contributors share their own impactful moments. Ellie Gibson fondly remembers Tomb Raider for introducing a strong female protagonist in a male-dominated field. Nina Freeman credits QWOP for inspiring her experimental design philosophy. Brenda Romero acknowledges Doom for revolutionizing first-person shooters and fostering a vibrant modding community. Iain Cook recalls how Mario Kart became a bonding activity during his band tours. Sam Barlow emphasizes Super Mario Bros.'s role in defining core gameplay mechanics. Shuhei Yoshida highlights Journey's emotional impact, while Meghna Jayanth praises Princess Maker for its narrative complexity. Keith Stuart reflects on Paperboy's influence in bringing real-world settings into virtual environments.

In conclusion, the diversity of nominations underscores the multifaceted nature of video games' influence. From pioneering technological advancements to evoking deep emotional responses, each game has contributed uniquely to the evolution of this dynamic medium. The stories shared by these industry leaders illustrate how video games have become integral to personal development and professional inspiration, transcending mere entertainment to shape culture and creativity.