If you’ve taken a long break from gaming and are looking to dive back into compelling single-player experiences, you’re in for a treat. The past decade has delivered a treasure trove of narrative-driven games across genres. Whether you love intense emotional storytelling, mystery-filled thrillers, or open-world epics, this list covers the best story games that are sure to pull you in.

Firewatch

A short but emotionally resonant game, Firewatch puts you in the shoes of a fire lookout in Wyoming. Through radio conversations with your supervisor, you unravel a deep, personal narrative set against a stunning visual backdrop.

Outer Wilds

This time-loop space exploration game is a masterclass in environmental storytelling. With no combat and no hand-holding, Outer Wilds rewards curiosity with profound discoveries that gradually piece together a larger cosmic mystery.

The Last of Us Series

A benchmark in storytelling, The Last of Us and its sequel combine action-survival mechanics with a deeply human story. It’s intense, emotional, and unforgettable.

Alan Wake 2 (Upcoming)

While the first Alan Wake was a cult classic, the upcoming sequel is generating major buzz. Expect more of the psychological thriller narrative mixed with modern visuals and gameplay enhancements.

Resident Evil 2 (Remake)

This horror classic was reborn with modern graphics and refined gameplay. The storytelling, while rooted in survival horror tropes, is well-paced and thrilling.

Heavy Rain

An interactive drama where your choices drastically affect the story. With multiple endings and a gripping murder mystery, Heavy Rain is one of the best examples of branching narrative design.

What Remains of Edith Finch

More of an interactive experience than a game, Edith Finch is a beautifully crafted series of vignettes about a tragic family history. Short, powerful, and unforgettable.

Journey

A meditative experience with no dialogue, Journey tells its story entirely through visuals and music. It’s a reminder of how games can convey emotion without a single word.

Dishonored Series

While not known strictly for its story, Dishonored features rich world-building and lore that rewards exploration. The DLCs and sequel expand the narrative in meaningful ways.

Prey (2017)

A psychological thriller with excellent environmental storytelling, Prey is set aboard a space station filled with secrets. The narrative and gameplay work hand in hand to create a gripping experience.

Detroit: Become Human

Though polarizing, Detroit offers a compelling choose-your-own-adventure story. Your decisions shape a branching narrative about androids fighting for freedom in a futuristic world.

Disco Elysium

No combat, just dialogue and internal monologue. Disco Elysium is a detective RPG with some of the most unique writing and world-building in any game.

JRPGs and Open World Epics

If you’re into long-form storytelling, check out:

The Trails Series and YS Series for deep JRPG lore.

Xenoblade Chronicles, Final Fantasy, Persona 5 – all titans of narrative.

Skyrim and older Elder Scrolls games for sprawling lore and player freedom.

Titanfall 2 Campaign

Often overlooked, Titanfall 2’s campaign is short but memorable, with clever level design and a surprisingly emotional story arc.

Metal Gear Solid Series

Known for convoluted yet gripping stories, the Metal Gear games blend political intrigue, action, and philosophical undertones.

Prince of Persia Series

Especially the older titles like The Sands of Time, these offer satisfying action and time-travel narrative mechanics.

Uncharted Series

Uncharted 4 in particular stands out for its polished storytelling, character development, and cinematic flair.

Bioshock Series

From Rapture to Columbia, Bioshock games are narrative powerhouses. Expect twisty, philosophical stories with atmospheric world-building.

Mass Effect Trilogy

An ambitious sci-fi narrative across three games, Mass Effect features branching choices, deep lore, and complex characters.

Red Dead Redemption 2

A must-play. Red Dead 2 is a slow-burn masterpiece with rich characters and a deeply affecting story set in a dying Wild West.

Horizon Zero Dawn

An open-world action game with a unique sci-fi story. Take your time with this one—reading lore entries enriches the experience.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

A towering achievement in narrative and world-building. Every quest, even side ones, is filled with nuance and moral gray areas.

A Plague Tale: Innocence

A more linear title, this historical fiction game mixes stealth, puzzles, and a heart-wrenching story about siblings surviving during the Black Plague.

Ghost of Tsushima

A beautiful samurai epic with a strong emotional core. Its story is told through cinematic cutscenes and personal moments alike.

Divinity: Original Sin 2

A deeply customizable RPG with co-op capabilities and an epic fantasy story. Player choices matter more than in almost any other game.

Final Thoughts on the Best Story Games

If you’re looking for the best story games, this list should get you started. Whether you prefer emotional indies, choice-driven adventures, or open-world epics, the golden age of storytelling in games is right now. Pick one, dive in, and enjoy the journey.

Pro Tip: Go in blind whenever possible. The less you know, the more the story will surprise and resonate with you.