Top 10 must play story games of all time

Video games provide a medium through which players can immerse themselves in fantastical worlds and live out adventures beyond their wildest dreams. However, while most gamers have experienced action-packed gameplay and proved their mettle with reflex-driven mechanics, many have found themselves thirsty for a more story-driven experience. This has led developers to turn their attention to narrative-adventure games, where players can make choices that shape the outcome of a compelling story. In this article, we list the top 10 must-play story games of all time.

What are Narrative Adventure Games?

Before delving into the top 10 must-play story games, it's essential to define what narrative-adventure games are. Narrative adventure games focus more on character development and storytelling than on action-packed gameplay. They are relatively low on mechanics and feature puzzles and dialogue-driven gameplay. Players take on the role of the protagonist and explore a world where alternative choices shape the game's ending. A player's decision alters the story's final outcome, meaning that different players could have a unique story by the game's end.

Top 10 Must-Play Story Games

The following list of the best narrative adventure games of all time takes into account several aspects of the games, including the strength of the game's story, character development, artwork, and innovation over time.

#10 - Telltale's The Walking Dead

Few games have had an impact on the narrative adventure genre like Telltale's The Walking Dead. Set within Robert Kirkman's comic book universe, the game's iconic aesthetic mixed with brilliant character development made it a must-play for fans of the series. The Walking Dead's strong focus on storytelling and innovative gameplay brought improvements to the genre for the years to follow. The game's popularity also resulted in a few spin-offs, including Michonne and The Walking Dead: A New Frontier.

#9 - Heavy Rain

Heavy Rain was a game that took the sub-genre of narrative-adventure games and transformed it. Its unique take on character development and storytelling made it a cult favorite. The game's world is kept small, with every action impacting the story's overall outcome. Its plot led gamers through an investigation that featured several playable characters, each with their unique perspective. The results led to the ultimate killer reveal, making it a must-play narrative adventure game.

#8 - Firewatch

Firewatch was a game that stood out as an example of how innovation could lead to an excellent narrative adventure game. The game's overall artistic aesthetic made it a unique addition to the lineup, with players experiencing the role of a forest-fire lookout in the late 1980s, after the Yellowstone fires. The game's unmatched visual style and immersive sound design make it a must-play game, with a story that leaves players heartbroken and yearning for more.

#7 - Until Dawn

Until Dawn is a narrative adventure game that boasts an all-star cast, led by the likes of Peter Stormare and Hayden Panettiere. Set on a remote mountain lodge, the story follows a group of teenagers who find themselves terrorized by a horde of unknown assailants. The game's unique approach to character development and gameplay provides players with a lasting experience that will leave them wanting more.

#6 - Life is Strange

Life is Strange is a game that transformed the way narrative-adventure games were experienced. The game's protagonist, Max, discovers she has the power to rewind time, leading to excellent character development and innovative gameplay. As the lead character, players encounter difficult morals and choices that heavily impact the story's overall outcome. The game's excellence in character development and storytelling cemented it as a must-play narrative adventure game.

#5 - The Wolf Among Us

The Wolf Among Us set high standards for narrative adventure games, with a unique take on character development and storytelling. The game is set in a shadowy world where its inhabitants are fables who are kept in line by a powerful and mysterious authority known as "The Adversary." With the lead character, Bigby Wolf, on the case, the game takes the player on a journey of investigation, with each character intertwined in the tale of deception and intrigue.

#4 - Beyond: Two Souls

Beyond: Two Souls is an immersive narrative adventure game that pushes the limits of storytelling. With Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe leading the cast, Beyond tells the story of Jodie, who has been linked to a mysterious supernatural entity since birth. The game's narrative jumps back and forth through time with amazing fluidity, allowing players to experience an immersive and emotional story with a few twists and turns.

#3 - Detroit: Become Human

Detroit: Become Human is a game set in a futuristic world where androids have become a permanent part of everyday life. The game makes effective use of the three central protagonists, each with unique perspectives and motivations. The story develops around themes like civil rights, oppression, and the meaning of humanity. Every choice in the game heavily impacts the story's overall outcome, making it a must-play narrative adventure game.

#2 - The Walking Dead: Season Two

The Walking Dead: Season Two builds on the strong foundations of the first game, telling a story of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. Fans of the comics will be pleased to know the game brings back Clementine, now older and wiser. The game's focus remains on the decisions made by the player, with each choice leading to a unique outcome. The Walking Dead: Season Two is a game that provides players with an emotional narrative and unforgettable experience.

#1 - The Last of Us

The Last of Us earns the top spot on this list of narrative adventure games for its impactful story, emotional depth, and unmatched gameplay. As Joel, players embark on a journey with Ellie through a post-apocalyptic world plagued by a fungal infection. The game's mechanics perfectly combine a fine-tuned shooting system with brutal melee combat, keeping the player on edge throughout the game. The Last of Us' tale of survival in a broken world exemplifies the very best of narrative-adventure gameplay.

Why Narrative Adventure Games Matter

Narrative adventure games play an essential role within the gaming industry. Story-driven titles can change the scene by implementing innovative gameplay mechanics and interactive storylines. Zero Consequence choices and consequences, branching paths, and playable characters provide players with immersive experiences. It is games like these that keep players coming back for more with their strong storylines and unique character development.

Narrative adventure games are an essential part of the modern gaming industry, providing players with interactive and immersive experiences that challenge long-held conventions. From character development to branching storylines, each game provides an insight into the narrative-adventure genre's power. The games listed in this article are the top 10 must-play story games of all time, providing an unforgettable experience for any gamer looking to dive into the world of narrative adventure games.