Iconic phrases from the history of video games

Explore the most memorable and quoted phrases that have left an indelible mark on video game culture. From battle cries to witty dialogue and unforgettable warnings, these quotes resonate in the memories of gamers across generations. Discover how these expressions have transcended screens and become part of popular lexicon. Immerse yourself in nostalgia and revisit the moments that defined your gaming experiences.

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  1. 1

    Stay awhile and listen! (Diablo series)

    291 Global Votes
    • Memorable quote from Deckard Cain

      (+1)

    Deckard Cain's welcoming phrase before imparting lore and wisdom to the player. It's a beloved line that evokes nostalgia for the Diablo series and the importance of lore in RPGs.

  2. 2

    Would you kindly... (BioShock)

    52 Global Votes
    • Functions as a post-hypnotic trigger

      (+4)

    A seemingly innocuous phrase that reveals a shocking plot twist, demonstrating the power of subtle manipulation. This phrase is celebrated for its narrative brilliance and its impact on players, making it a standout in video game storytelling.

  3. 3

    My body is ready (E3 2007)

    42 Global Votes
    • Became a beloved internet sensation

      (+3)

    This phrase, uttered by Reggie Fils-Aimé at E3 2007, became an instant internet meme, symbolizing excitement and anticipation within the gaming community. It represents a significant cultural moment in Nintendo's history and the broader evolution of gaming memes.

  4. 4

    Praise the sun! (Dark Souls)

    38 Global Votes
    • Expression of relief, delight, or gratitude

      (+4)

    Solaire of Astora's enthusiastic exclamation and signature gesture became a symbol of cooperation and optimism in a bleak world. This phrase and gesture are a popular meme and a fond reference for fans of the Dark Souls series.

  5. 5

    YOU DIED (Dark Souls)

    37 Global Votes
    • Blunt and jarring message

      (+4)

    This stark message upon player defeat is synonymous with the notoriously difficult Soulsborne series. It's a phrase that has become instantly recognizable, defining challenging gameplay and the 'Souls-like' genre for a vast segment of gamers.

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  7. 6

    Do a barrel roll! (Star Fox 64)

    33 Global Votes
    • Became a viral meme

      (+3)

    A frequently repeated instruction from a beloved character that became a widespread internet meme. Its simple, direct nature and constant repetition in the game made it incredibly memorable and a lasting piece of gaming lexicon.

  8. 7

    The cake is a lie. (Portal)

    16 Global Votes
    • Conveys a message of false motivation

    A cryptic message that became a central theme and a popular meme, representing betrayal and false promises. This phrase perfectly encapsulates the dark humor and narrative twists of Portal, maintaining its relevance through continued discussion.

  9. 8

    It's-a-me, Mario! (Super Mario 64)

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic catchphrase

      (+2)

    This phrase is Mario's signature greeting, instantly recognizable and synonymous with the character and Nintendo. It has been a staple in many Mario games since its introduction, making it a timeless icon.

  10. 9

    Finish him! (Mortal Kombat)

    0 Global Votes
    • One of the most famous phrases in video game history

      (+3)

    This iconic command precedes a Fatality in the Mortal Kombat series, deeply ingrained in fighting game culture. It's instantly recognizable to gamers worldwide and continues to be a staple in every new iteration of the franchise.

  11. 10

    War. War never changes (Fallout)

    0 Global Votes
    • Phrase has historical roots dating back to 1914

      (+2)

    This powerful opening line of almost every Fallout game establishes the post-apocalyptic setting and recurring themes. It's a memorable line that defines the Fallout universe and its commentary on human nature.

  12. 11

    It's dangerous to go alone. Take this! (The Legend of Zelda)

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic phrase from The Legend of Zelda

      (+2)

    One of the earliest and most famous lines in gaming, offering the player their first sword. This phrase is a foundational piece of video game history, widely parodied and referenced, and still resonates as a symbol of helpful guidance.

  13. 12

    Thank you Mario! But our princess is in another castle! (Super Mario Bros.)

    0 Global Votes
    • Widely recognized and acknowledged

      (+2)

    This notoriously frustrating yet iconic line informed players they had only completed a portion of the game. It perfectly captures the early gaming experience of repeated challenges and has become a classic meme for delayed gratification.

  14. 13

    I used to be an adventurer like you, then I took an arrow to the knee. (The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim)

    0 Global Votes
    • Originated a popular internet meme

      (+1)

    A highly repetitive line of dialogue from NPCs that quickly became a massive internet meme. Its ubiquity in Skyrim and subsequent meme status cemented its place as one of gaming's most recognizable phrases.

  15. 14

    Get over here! (Mortal Kombat series)

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic catchphrase in video game history

      (+3)

    Scorpion's iconic battle cry when using his spear attack, a defining element of the character and the series. It's a classic, aggressive, and instantly recognizable line that has been a part of the Mortal Kombat franchise for decades.

  16. 15

    Ah s**t, here we go again. (Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas)

    0 Global Votes
    • Arguably the greatest Grand Theft Auto game

      (+4)

    CJ's opening line in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas became a popular meme used to express a sense of unavoidable repetition or trouble. Its meme status and association with a hugely popular game ensure its continued recognition and use.

  17. 16

    Hadouken! (Street Fighter series)

    0 Global Votes
    • A special attack in the Street Fighter series

      (+3)

    Ryu's iconic shout when performing his energy blast is a staple of fighting game special moves. This sound effect and phrase are instantly recognizable to fighting game fans and have been a part of the genre's vocabulary for decades.

  18. 17

    All your base are belong to us. (Zero Wing)

    0 Global Votes
    • Became a popular internet meme

      (+4)

    A grammatically incorrect but highly memorable line from a poorly translated game, which became one of the internet's earliest widespread memes. Despite its age, it remains a classic example of internet culture and gaming's early meme history.

  19. 18

    You're finally awake. (The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim)

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic and recognizable opening line

      (+4)

    The very first line heard by the player in Skyrim, initiating the game's epic journey. This line is instantly recognizable to millions of players and marks the beginning of one of the most popular open-world RPGs.

  20. 19

    What are you buying? (Resident Evil 4)

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic phrases are memorable

      (+4)

    The merchant's distinctive voice and repetitive greeting became a quirky, cult classic element in a horror game. This phrase is known for its unique delivery and the character's memorable presence.

  21. 20

    It's time to kick ass and chew bubble gum... and I'm all outta gum. (Duke Nukem 3D)

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic phrase from video game history

      (+3)

    Duke Nukem's signature tough-guy line embodies his over-the-top persona. This quote perfectly captures the attitude of a classic gaming anti-hero and is widely recognized as a symbol of 90s gaming.