21 Best Story Games No Gamer Should Miss in 2025
Some of the best story games are not just about pressing buttons and leveling up – they’re about connecting to characters and immersing yourself in a world that feels alive.
Every year, countless games hit the market, but only a few manage to do more than just entertain. A great story game sticks with you, leaving an emotional imprint long after the completion screen.
But what makes a great story game? It’s all about experience. These games craft worlds that pull you in with gripping narratives, complex characters, and plot twists that make you feel like you’re living in the story, not just playing through it.
Whether it’s the suspense, the joy, or the heart-wrenching moments, story games take you to places that other media can’t. As players, we crave that connection – the kind of characters and experiences that challenge our emotions, force us to think, and blur the lines between us and the protagonist.
This list has some of the best story games – the ones that every gamer should experience, so let’s dive right in!
Our Top Picks for Story Games
Good story games are one of a kind when it comes to the plot and the intricate world mechanics. It’s like a puzzle where every piece adds up to make the big picture.
Here are some titles that properly represent the true spirit of story games:
- Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018) – an open-world Western adventure covering an epic tale of loyalty, betrayal, realism, and redemption.
- Horizon Zero Dawn (2017) – a unique action RPG in which a girl uncovers the mysteries behind her origin and a future world ruled by Robots.
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) – an action RPG covering a warrior’s quest to find his loved ones while fighting monsters and making world changing choices.
- Detroit: Become Human (2018) – journey of three androids as they struggle and fight for their freedom with multiple story endings.
- The Last of Us Part I (2013) – action adventure shooter of a girl’s survival and quest for revenge, unfolding a raw, emotional journey in an apocalyptic world.
Brace your horses, because these aren’t the only video game stories you must try. Each video game in the list has a distinct story with different aspects regarding characters, the world and inner game mechanics. Keep on reading to find out even more titles that you can’t resist but playing!
21 Best Story Games for 2025
There’s something magical about story-driven games – how they pull you into their worlds and make you feel like you’re living a second life. Over the years, I’ve played countless video games, but the ones that truly stick with me are those with unforgettable narratives.
What sets the best story games of all time apart is their ability to evoke raw emotion. I still remember moments of triumph and heartbreak, the kind that left me staring at the screen, stunned by what had just happened.
1. Red Dead Redemption 2 (Best Open-World Game)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Google Stadia | 2018 |
This title isn’t just an immersive open-world game with maybe the most realistic snow you’ll ever encounter – it’s a whole experience that completely pulls you in. Red Dead Redemption 2 is Rockstar at their absolute best, delivering one of the most detailed and emotional adventures I’ve ever played.
You step into the boots of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw trying to survive in a changing Wild West. Every town, forest, and dusty trail feels alive – NPCs react to you, your choices shape the world, and even your horse forms a bond with you over time.
If you haven’t played Red Dead Redemption 2 yet, you’re missing out on one of the greatest gaming experiences ever. It’s the kind of game that sticks with you.
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2. Horizon Zero Dawn: Complete Edition (The Best Action-RPG)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows | 2017 |
Imagine a world where nature has reclaimed ancient ruins, but towering machines dominate the land – that’s Horizon Zero Dawn. This impressive action RPG game drops you into a stunning open world filled with lush landscapes, deadly enemies, and a gripping story.
You play as Aloy, a skilled hunter with a mysterious past, raised as an outcast but destined for more. Armed with a bow, spear, and high-tech gear, you’ll hunt massive robotic beasts, each with unique weaknesses. Combat is fluid and strategic, making every fight a puzzle to solve.
With extra content, upgraded weapons, and new challenges, the Complete Edition is the best way to experience this unforgettable adventure.
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3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (The Best Dark Fantasy RPG for Xbox)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S, Nintendo Switch | 2015 |
This title is an open-world RPG that fully immerses you in a world of magic, monsters, and really tough choices. As Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter, you’re on a quest to find your adopted daughter, Ciri. The world around you feels alive, with every forest, swamp, and castle telling its own story.
Combat is a blend of swordplay, magic, and tactics, and every decision you make impacts the world.
But the real strength of games like The Witcher 3 lies in their narrative – Geralt’s journey is filled with emotional depth and tough decisions, and characters like Yennefer and Triss make the story simply unforgettable.
The Witcher 3 is a must-play. It’s a game that pulls you in and leaves a lasting impact long after you finish.
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4. Detroit: Become Human (Best Android RPG on PlayStation and PC)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 4 | 2018 |
This game is an emotional, thought-provoking journey into a near-future world where androids have gained self-awareness and are struggling for their rights. You step into the shoes of three different characters – Kara, Connor, and Markus – each with their own unique perspective on the android uprising.
The storytelling is top-tier, with each choice feeling heavy and impactful. From heart-pounding moments of action to deep, moral dilemmas, Detroit pulls you into its complex web of emotions, questioning what it means to be human and whether machines deserve freedom.
If you’re after a game that challenges your perceptions and tests your morality, Detroit: Become Human is one you don’t want to miss.
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5. The Last of Us Part I (Best Post-apocalyptic Survival Story on PlayStation)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 | 2013 |
In this fantastic post-apocalyptic game, you take on the role of Joel, a battle-hardened survivor tasked with escorting Ellie, a young girl who may hold the key to saving humanity. The world around you is ravaged by the infected, and every step you take is fraught with danger.
The storytelling is masterful, with every decision and every loss weighing heavily on you. Combat is tense and requires careful strategy, as resources are scarce and every encounter with the infected or hostile survivors feels like a fight for your life.
If you’re looking for a game that combines intense action with a deeply emotional narrative, The Last of Us Part I is a must-play. The world may be bleak, but the journey is unforgettable.
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6. The Last of Us Part II Remastered (Best Emotionally Intense Sequel on PlayStation)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 5 | 2025 |
This title takes everything you thought you knew about survival and revenge – and flips it on its head. Set in a brutal, post-apocalyptic world, you control Ellie, now older and seeking vengeance for a personal loss.
The story is intense and deeply emotional, with unexpected twists that make every moment feel unpredictable. You’ll experience both sides of the conflict, seeing the world from different perspectives, which only deepens the complexity of the narrative.
The Last of Us Part II redefines the post-apocalyptic game genre. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, blending heart-pounding action with powerful storytelling that leaves a lasting impact.
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7. Mass Effect 2 (The Best Sci-fi Story for PC)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation 4 (Legendary Edition) | 2010 |
Without question, this is one of the greatest space games ever made, throwing you into a high-stakes mission where failure means the end of humanity. As Commander Shepard, you’re tasked with assembling a team of the galaxy’s most skilled and dangerous individuals to take on the mysterious Collectors.
The story is gripping, filled with moral dilemmas, betrayals, and unforgettable character moments. Every decision you make – who you recruit, how you interact with them, and the choices you make along the way – determines who lives, who dies, and whether the mission succeeds at all.
From the neon-lit crime world of Omega to the eerie depths of derelict ships, the galaxy is stunningly detailed, with every location feeling unique and alive. Few games make you feel the impact of your decisions like Mass Effect 2, and even fewer deliver a universe this rich and immersive.
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8. Life is Strange Remastered Collection (Best Emotional Narrative on PC)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch | 2022 |
This iconic title brings back the emotional storytelling and choice-driven gameplay of the original with enhanced visuals and improved animations. You step into the lives of Max Caulfield and Chloe Price, two best friends navigating love, loss, and the mysteries of Arcadia Bay.
The heart of games like Life is Strange lies in its characters and emotional depth. The writing feels raw and genuine, tackling themes of friendship, trauma, and self-discovery, while the improved facial animations make every interaction more expressive, adding even more weight to the game’s most intense moments.
For both newcomers and longtime fans, Life Is Strange Remastered Collection recaptures the magic of the originals with a fresh coat of polish. The visuals may be upgraded, but the emotions hit just as hard.
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9. BioShock Infinite (Best Dystopian Shooter on All Platforms)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, macOS, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS | 2007 |
High above the clouds, Columbia shines like a utopia in Bioshock Infinite – but beneath its patriotic facade lies something far more sinister. What starts as a simple rescue mission spirals into a mind-bending journey through parallel realities, challenging everything you think you know in one of the most engaging FPS games of all time.
The dynamic between Booker and Elizabeth is the heart of the game. She’s more than just a companion – her abilities shape both the story and gameplay, letting you open tears in reality to gain an advantage in combat.
BioShock Infinite is more than a shooter – it’s an unforgettable narrative experience that challenges perception, morality, and fate itself.
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10. God of War (Best Mythological Adventure on Playstation)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 | 2018 |
The frozen wilderness of the Norse realms in God of War is harsh and unforgiving, but for Kratos, it’s the only place left to start over. Years after his vengeance against the gods of Olympus, he now lives in exile, raising his young son, Atreus.
Their journey begins with a simple task but quickly unfolds into something much greater, forcing Kratos to confront both powerful deities and the demons of his past.
Combat is brutal and weighty, trading the chaos of the Blades of Chaos for the precise, devastating swings of the Leviathan Axe. Every battle demands strategy, whether you’re clashing with towering trolls or dodging the relentless attacks of Draugr.
God of War isn’t just a reinvention of the series, it’s a deeply personal story wrapped in epic adventure.
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11. Disco Elysium – The Final Cut (Best Detective RPG on All Platforms)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch | 2019 |
In Disco Elysium – The Final Cut, you play a broken detective trying to solve a murder in the crumbling city of Revachol. More than a mystery, it’s a deep exploration of identity, morality, and consequence. As you investigate, your past haunts you, and every choice shapes your path.
Dialogue-driven gameplay shines, with rich conversations and a unique skill system where your thoughts become voices in your head. Revachol feels alive, filled with history, conflict, and eccentric characters. The sharp, often dark narrative challenges you to think critically at every turn.
The Final Cut adds more voice acting and content, enhancing an already brilliant experience.
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12. Undertale (Best Indie RPG on All Platforms)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S | 2015 |
In Undertale, you enter a quirky, unpredictable world where your choices truly matter. As a human who falls into the underground, you must navigate through a realm filled with monsters, puzzles, and plenty of oddball characters.
What sets games like Undertale apart is the freedom they offer – the ability to choose between combat or pacifism, allowing you to shape the story based on your decisions.
Whether you take the peaceful route or the more violent path, Undertale challenges your expectations of what a game can be. It’s a deeply personal journey about compassion, choice, and the consequences of your actions.
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13. The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series (Best Episodic Survival Game on All Platforms)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, iOS, Android, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch | 2013 |
In a world where the dead walk the earth, survival is everything. As Lee Everett in The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series, a convicted criminal given a second chance in a world overrun by zombies, you must navigate this new, unforgiving reality.
Your primary mission becomes protecting Clementine, a young girl you vow to keep safe amidst the chaos. The connection between Lee and Clementine is the emotional core of the game – a story about survival, loss, and what it means to be human in a world where humanity is fading.
The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series compiles all seasons and DLC, with updated visuals and enhanced features that elevate the experience.
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14. Heavy Rain (Best Interactive Drama on PlayStation and PC)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5 | 2010 |
In Heavy Rain, you’re thrust into a tense, emotional thriller where every decision you make affects the outcome of a chilling murder mystery. You control multiple characters, each with their own personal stakes, as you investigate the case of the Origami Killer, a man who abducts children and leaves cryptic clues behind.
The game’s narrative is its heart, with twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end. The quick-time events and interactive storytelling make you feel like you’re living every intense moment, from searching for clues to surviving dangerous situations.
This is a story about loss, guilt, and the lengths you’ll go to for those you love. Heavy Rain immerses you in the story, making you question what you’d do in the most impossible situations.
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15. Firewatch (Best Narrative Exploration on All Platforms)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch | 2016 |
In Firewatch, you step into the boots of Henry, a fire lookout stationed in the vast, isolated Wyoming wilderness. What starts as a quiet, introspective job quickly turns into a gripping journey of mystery, personal discovery, and the weight of the past.
The game focuses on exploration and dialogue, with every step through the dense forest revealing more about Henry’s internal struggles and his evolving relationship with Delilah. The conversations you have with her shape the narrative, creating a bond that feels natural and full of emotional depth.
Firewatch is a game that doesn’t rely on high-octane action but instead focuses on the power of solitude, human connection, and self-reflection. It’s an unforgettable journey through both the wilderness and the human heart.
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16. Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (Best Classic JRPG on PlayStation and PC)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PlayStation, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4 (FFVII Remake) | FFVII (1997) |
This game builds upon the Final Fantasy lore, diving deeper into characters and events while introducing breathtaking visuals, fast-paced combat, and fresh perspectives that elevate the original narrative to new heights.
Cloud’s journey is full of familiar faces, from the strong-willed Tifa to the fiery Aerith, each bringing their own unique voice to the story. The combat system is a thrilling mix of real-time action and strategic command-based tactics, making each battle feel dynamic and engaging.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is often considered one of the greatest Final Fantasy games. Whether you’re revisiting the world or experiencing it for the first time, this is a journey you won’t soon forget.
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17. Persona 5 Royal (Best Stylish JRPG on Switch)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch | 2019 |
In Persona 5, you take on the role of a high school student who’s been sent to Tokyo after a scandal shakes up your life. But the real adventure begins when you and your friends discover the Metaverse – a twisted version of reality where you can steal the hearts of corrupt individuals and change their desires.
The game’s strength lies in its unforgettable characters, each with their own personal growth and unique backstory. The turn-based combat system is sharp, letting you exploit enemy weaknesses and unleash stylish persona abilities, making each fight feel dynamic and exciting.
With its gripping narrative, deep character development, and stylish design, Persona 5 stands as one of the best JRPGs of all time. It’s more than just a game – it’s an experience you won’t forget.
18. Nier: Automata – Become As Gods Edition (Best Philosophical RPG on All Platforms)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC | 2018 |
This title throws you into a world where androids fight an endless war against alien machines, with humanity long exiled to the Moon. As 2B, a combat android, and 9S, a scanning unit, you’ll explore a beautifully desolate world while questioning the very nature of existence, purpose, and consciousness.
The action is fast-paced and satisfying, blending action-packed hack-and-slash game combat with strategic decision-making as you unravel the mysteries of this war-torn world.
With its mix of philosophical depth, innovative gameplay, and captivating world-building, Nier: Automata is one of the best action RPGs around, delivering a thought-provoking adventure that’s both exhilarating and reflective.
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19. SOMA (Best Psychological Horror on All Platforms)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 4, GeForce Now, Xbox One, macOS, Linux | 2015 |
In SOMA, you find yourself trapped in an eerie underwater facility, surrounded by strange machines and unsettling occurrences. Playing as Simon Jarrett, you wake up in a world where humanity’s future is uncertain, and the lines between man and machine blur in horrifying ways.
What sets SOMA apart from other outstanding horror games is its psychological horror, creating an atmosphere that’s as mentally unnerving as it is physically dangerous.
If you’re looking for one of the scariest horror games that doesn’t just rely on traditional scares but digs into your mind, SOMA delivers an unforgettable experience that will have you questioning the very fabric of reality.
20. Dragon Age: Origins – Ultimate Edition (Best High-fantasy RPG on All Platforms)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 | 2010 |
This is the definitive version of the iconic RPG, offering everything the original game has to offer along with all the downloadable content and expansions. As a Grey Warden in a world on the brink of destruction, you must rally allies, face darkspawn, and make decisions that will shape the future of Ferelden.
The tactical combat is deep and satisfying, requiring careful planning and strategic thinking as you lead your party through intense battles. Every character you meet, from loyal allies to bitter enemies, has a well-written backstory that adds depth to the already rich world.
With a vast world full of lore, memorable characters, and difficult moral choices, Dragon Age: Origins Ultimate Edition is one of the best RPGs of its kind, offering a fully realized adventure that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
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21. To the Moon (Best Emotional Indie Game on PC and Switch)
| Platforms | Year of release |
| PC, macOS, Linux, iOS, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch | 2011 |
In this fantastic indie game, you go through a heart-wrenching journey that’s as emotional as it is unique. Playing as two doctors, you’re tasked with traveling through the memories of a dying man, Johnny, to fulfill his last wish: to go to the moon.
The game is a masterclass in storytelling. The pixel-art style may be simple, but it perfectly complements the narrative’s emotional depth, bringing every moment to life with subtlety and grace. The music, haunting and beautiful, reinforces the themes of loss, love, and the passage of time, making every scene even more impactful.
To the Moon isn’t just a game; it’s a journey that resonates long after you’ve finished, leaving you with a sense of warmth and melancholy that’s hard to shake. It’s one of the most emotional storytelling experiences in gaming.
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Best Story Games for PC
Let’s face it – PC gaming offers a lot of flexibility. While consoles have their perks and used to offer better graphics and performance, PC has caught up and even surpassed in many cases, making it home to some of the greatest PC games.
But what are the best story games PC has to offer? There are plenty, but let’s focus on three standout titles:
- Red Dead Redemption 2
- Baldur’s Gate 3
- Mass Effect 2
Each of these games brings something unique to the table. Baldur’s Gate 3 isn’t just a great story game; it’s also one of the best co-op games on PC. These three titles are considered storytelling masterpieces in gaming, each excelling in different aspects of narrative and world-building.
With well-written characters, interactive narratives, and immersive worlds, these RPGs will keep you hooked for hours.
Best Story Games for Xbox
Nothing quite beats the feel of an Xbox controller in hand. While PC gaming has its advantages, there is nothing that quite matches the joy of playing stunning Xbox games. The new Xbox Series X/S takes it even further with 4K resolution and super-fast load times, making it one of the top consoles on the market right now.
But let’s get to what really matters – the story games. While these are available on other platforms, Xbox gives you the best experience, especially with Game Pass. Here are some of the standout titles that are perfect for Xbox players:
- The Witcher 3
- NieR: Automata
- Life is Strange
All three of these games have been featured on Game Pass at some point, making them incredibly accessible. Plus, Fallout 4 deserves a mention – it’s not just a story game but one of the best co-op experiences on Xbox.
Xbox’s great storage and seamless resume feature make it easy to dive back into your game. And with Xbox LIVE, you’ll stay engaged, earning achievements that highlight your skills and progress.
FAQs
What game has the best storyline?
Red Dead Redemption 2 is considered as the game with the best storyline. Its game mechanics feel especially immersive. The story peeks at different emotions along with an array of choices. The rich characters and detailed world gives RDR2 its designated throne.
What game has the best ending?
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt delivers one of the best endings in gaming, with multiple outcomes shaped by your choices. The “Ciri becomes a Witcher” ending, where she stays with Geralt, is a fan favorite.
What game has the saddest story?
Final Fantasy X probably has the saddest story in gaming. The game depicts a heart wrenching love story with an aching, sad ending. To top it off, the character Tidus’s tragic fate leaves players deeply empathizing with him.
What is the longest story game?
Persona 5 Royal is among the longest story games. It offers over 100 hours of gameplay (101 hours alone for the story completion). The Royal edition of the game adds extra story to the original JRPG, Persona 5, making it one of the lengthiest story games of all time.
