The best game stories are the ones that gamers remember years after playing. Just like watching a movie or reading an engaging novel, games have the power to transport you into their immersive worlds and leave a lasting impression. Moreover, with Artificial Intelligence, gamers now have the power to alter the game’s narrative.
The storytelling in modern games is nothing short of TV shows and movies. In fact, some games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and Cyberpunk 2077 are undoubtedly better than most movies. With so many story-driven games over the years, choosing the games with the best storylines is not an easy task.
In this blog, we will explore the most popular PC games with the best storyline and discuss what makes a video game immersive and engaging for a gamer.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Let’s take a look at the games with the best storylines that will go down in history.
Platforms: iOS, PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S
Released: November 8, 2019
Developer: Kojima Productions
If we were talking about gameplay, DeathStranding would never be here. It is a weird game. However, if you are familiar with Hideo Kojima’s work, that does not come as a surprise. The game is basically a postman simulator where the protagonist acts as a delivery boy. But, story is so complex and astounding that we had to include it in this list.
According to 2019 standards, the graphics of the game were top-notch. If you are willing to endure a tiring playthrough, DeathStranding has an excellent story with Mads Mikkelsen as the final villain. Spoiler Alert!
Platforms: PC, Android, iOS
Released: 1995
Developer: Square Enix
Chrono Trigger is a Japanese RPG that utilizes time travel as a narrative tool. While time travel does not always work in video games, Chrono Trigger makes it work. It was released in 1995 and still retains its cult status after 30 years.
Chrono and his friends are thrown into an adventure where they must travel through various historical eras to save the world. While it may seem like a simple premise, it triggers emotions like companionship, love, devotion, hate, and honor, making it one of the best story-driven games ever made.
Platforms: Xbox 360, PS3, PC
Released: October 19, 2010
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Fallout: New Vegas arguably has the best story out of all Fallout games. It is an interesting blend of a post-apocalyptic and western setting with different factions trying to gain power. Unlike most Fallout games, the protagonist wasn’t a vault-dweller but a courier. In fact, the opening sequence when the player is shot in the head is one of the most intriguing in gaming history.
It paves the way for one of the best branching storyline PC games of recent times. Every decision counts and affects the game’s story in one way or another. However, with such a gripping story, Fallout: New Vegas falls short because of its rushed ending.
Platforms: PS2/PS4
Released: 2005
Developer: Team Ico, Bluepoint Games
Shadow of the Colossus is a cult-classic goliath-slaying quest that still remains one of the best video game narratives ever told. In fact, the cult status of the game forced the developers to remaster the game and launch it for the PS4.
The game’s highlight is definitely the mysterious game world combined with its eerie, anxiety-inducing BGM. The protagonist is an emotionally tortured hero, and the game explores emotions like guilt and grief, making it a masterpiece in video game storytelling.
If that sounds like your kind of experience, check out our handpicked list of games like Valorant that offer thrilling gunplay, strategic gameplay, and competitive edge.
Platforms: PC
Released: 2004
Developer: Valve
It’s been 20 years since Half-Life 2 was released, and fans are still waiting for its conclusion. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best sci-fi first-person shooters with a confusing and perplexing storyline. You play as Gordon Freeman and fight against the Combine, a multi-dimensional empire that conquered Earth.
One of the best things about Half-Life 2 is that players are completely in the dark, much like the protagonist. In 20004, Half-Life 2 was a game way ahead of its time, and gamers are still waiting for its next version.
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows
Released: September 1, 2015
Developer: Kojima Productions, Konami
If you love a good Hideo Kojima story, MGS V: Phantom Pain is a must-play. Fans were eagerly waiting for this game, and it definitely delivered. The central twist is very well developed and does not seem too obvious. Moreover, Phantom Pain brought back various characters from the series, triggering nostalgia for Metal Gear series fans.
However, the game remains unfinished. Apparently, Kojima and Konami had a fallout, and the game was released unfinished.
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
Released: February 25, 2022
Developer: From Software
Who doesn’t know Elden Ring? It is the Game of the Year in 2022 and one of the best narrative-driven games of all time. With an impeccable world design and mysterious aura, the game keeps players in the dark for the majority of their journey.
However, that is the case with most From Software games. Most of the game’s story is hidden in item descriptions and secret locations. Players who put in the effort of exploring and paying attention will know that the lore is deeper than they think.
However, since most casual players do not put that kind of effort, most of the storyline goes unnoticed—something we expect might change with upcoming titles like Elder Scrolls 6, which promises a deeper narrative experience that could engage even casual adventurers.
Platforms: Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Released: September 17, 2013
Developer: Rockstar Games
While I personally have never been a fan of GTA V, it is too popular not to be included in this list. It is one of the highest-selling games of all time and has been released on three generations of consoles. Ever after 12 years of its release, its online servers are still jam-packed with players. However, that does not discredit the main story.
Michael, Trevor, and Franklin all had great character arcs and were very well-written. Moreover, how all three stories tie together with epic twists and turns was the pinnacle of storytelling. While some may argue that Grand Theft Auto 5 boasts the best story in Rockstar Games’ portfolio, there is one that beats it.
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Released: July 17, 2020
Developer: Sucker Punch Studios
Ghost of Tsushima is a cinematic and narrative masterpiece in an RPG setting. Players control Jin Sakai, a samurai who is fighting to defend his homeland against the Mongols. However, when the Samurai code proves ineffective against the Mongols, Jin is forced to surrender his ideals and adopt underhanded ways and guerrilla tactics to gain an upper hand.
Jin is not your average protagonist, instead, he is one of the best anti-heroes as he sacrificed his morality to save his people and land. The game explores Jin’s relationship with his childhood friend, uncle, and comrades with themes of leadership, loyalty, and struggle.
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Released: 2011
Developer: BioWare
Mass Effect 2 is the OG sci-fi adventure where you have to assemble a team and save the galaxy. Sounds pretty basic, but Mass Effect 2 does it with excellence. The protagonist is against overwhelming odds and has to fight against titanic machines to save his galaxy.
However, not a lot of games make you feel so attached to the supporting cast. Each crew member has a compelling and deep backstory that genuinely makes you feel connected to them and grieve over their loss.
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, Stadia, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
Released: December 10, 2020
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Cyberpunk 2077 started off as a disaster. After hyping up the game for over 7 years, CD Projekt Red released an unoptimized version of the game filled with glitches. However, after enough patches and the release of an amazing DLC, the game has redeemed itself. Cyberpunk’s story is quite unique, with various branching paths.
You play as V, who gets an infected chip in their system and gets the consciousness of a long-deceased rockstar- Johnny Silverhand. While V’s character depends on your customization and choice, Silverhand is a failed revolutionary and rock star. While the gameplay is quite long, it grips the user to their seat and keeps the mood tense throughout. If you enjoy fast-paced, action-heavy combat games with dark futuristic vibes, check out our list of games like Mortal Kombat.
Platforms: PS4, PC
Released: February 28, 2017
Developer: Guerrilla Games
Guerrilla Games really went overboard with Horizon’s world-building. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where machines have taken over the world. However, these machines are in the form of animals, reptiles, and even dinosaurs.
However, that’s not all. You play as Aloy, who has to foster relationships, kill machines, and fight her way through to uncover her past. In the process, she saves the world from a rogue AI called Hades. The story could have been convoluted, but it is quite fleshed out with some exciting twists and turns. That being said, it is one of the most popular free-roam PS4 games with the best storyline.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S
Released: May 19, 2015
Developer: CD Projekt Red
If you thought Cyberpunk 2077 had a great storyline, wait till you play The Witcher 3. It was awarded 2015’s Game of the Year and is undoubtedly the best game by CD Projekt Red. Despite being the third part of a series, the game’s story is newcomer-friendly. The story is based on Geralt of Rivia, a monster-hunter (Witcher) who wants to find his lover (Yennefer) and his sort of daughter (Ciri).
In the process, he uncovers various secrets, encounters various characters, each with their own fleshed-out backstory. Overall, The Witcher 3’s story is arguably one of the best in the history of gaming.
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Stadia
Released: October 26, 2018
Developer: Rockstar Games
While Red Dead Redemption 2 did not win Game of the Year (it should have), it definitely is the best game out of Rockstar Games. At times, playing RDR 2 seems like watching a movie. This game is the peak of storytelling evolution, combining photorealistic graphics, ambient sounds, a western setting, and deep emotions into one masterpiece.
You play as Arthur Morgan, the right-hand man of your gang’s leader, and depending on your choices, you can either accumulate good karma or bad karma. However, RDR2 explores each and every character of the gang deeply and follows their personal struggles like they were your own. While the pacing could be better, Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the best story-driven video games ever made.
Platforms: PS2, PS3, Xbox, Xbox 360, PC
Released: 2001
Developer: Team Silent
Silent Hill 2 starts off as a depressing love story where James Sunderland (the protagonist) receives a letter from his deceased wife. The game tells a complex and intricately detailed story. Moreover, the way you play and interact with the world also has an impact on the game’s storyline.
The game also has themes of symbolism, where every creature you encounter is a manifestation of James’ guilt and regrets. It is a cult-classic and a great example of how a psychological thriller game should be executed. The only reason RDR2 is not in the first spot is because of Silent Hill 2’s layered, deep, personal, and intense storyline.
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Here are some prominent key features that are present in games with the best storylines.
An engaging and immersive story is crucial to create the best story mode games of all time. This includes creating vast worlds with interactive content. In fact, most RPG gamers prefer detailed worldbuilding as it allows them to explore the world for hours on end. However, make sure to keep the world realistic and tied to the main storyline of the game.
Besides a great world, non-playable characters (NPCs) of story mode games also play a crucial role in the overall engagement. Since players will spend most of their time interacting with various NPCs, it is essential to make them humane and with a personality. Games like RDR2 and Cyberpunk 2077 became such a hit because they featured relatable NPCs with their own struggles and characteristics.
Subplots that complement the main storyline add depth to your game world. Create side quests that explore these subplots to fill the game world and expand its lore. For instance, games like The Witcher 3 and Elden Ring do a marvellous job of using subplots to bring their game world to life.
Creating a game with a story that cannot be predicted is a surefire formula for success. Make sure to create a logical climax to an engaging story with a unique, unpredictable twist that comes out of nowhere. For example, nobody would have thought that Micah was the ‘mole’ in Red Dead Redemption 2 or General Shepherd’s betrayal in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. Twists like these have players saying “What?” at their screens.
Humans are emotional beings, and video games that leverage that emotion tend to leave a lasting impact. Best game storylines that players can relate to and resonate with are recipes for success. For example, Arthur Morgan’s and his horse’s deaths in RDR 2 left fans with a hole in their heart. Moments like these are what make video games one of the best entertainment channels in the world.
Great storytelling in video games is what turns a simple playthrough into an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s the emotional depth of Silent Hill 2, the immersive world of Red Dead Redemption 2, or the intricate choices in Fallout: New Vegas, these games prove that video game narratives—across various video game genres—can rival, if not surpass, those of movies and books.
With evolving technology and AI-driven narratives, video game developers are the future of storytelling in gaming. If you haven’t played these masterpieces yet, now is the perfect time to dive into their worlds and experience their gripping stories firsthand.
Ans. A video game storyline must be engaging and immerse the user in the game world. Moreover, it should feature well-written characters with deep backstories and a compelling plot with branching storylines. An emotional trigger that moves the player is also a great tool for driving engagement.
Ans. Not always but some games with great storylines allow player choices to impact the main story in video games. For example, games like The Witcher 3 and Fallout: New Vegas are largely dependent on player choices.
Ans. Most story-driven games feature an open world. However, this ultimately comes down to the player’s preference. While some players prefer a deep narrative-driven experience, others prefer social multiplayer gaming with their friends.
Ans. While this is entirely subjective, we think that Silent Hill 2 and Red Dead Redemption 2 are two of the best-written games of all time.
Ans. Cyberpunk 2077, The Witcher 3, Horizon Series, Ghost of Tsushima, etc., are some of the best RPGs with deep storylines that every gamer should play at least once.
Ans. Yes, Cyberpunk 2077 is the perfect example. While the initial gameplay was filled with bugs and was below average, the storyline and characters carried the game for years before it was fixed.
