Story-driven games can elevate simple plots into emotionally resonant experiences that require player engagement and deliver strong rewards. Titles range from those with established tales to choice-focused games where decisions shape outcomes. The selection includes indie standouts and a few AAA entries that balance production value with narrative depth. Some games intentionally subvert expectations to challenge perceptions, while others provide warm, heroic journeys tailored to player identity. Several entries feature surprising storytelling from games that do not prioritize narrative, demonstrating that great storytelling can appear across genres. Players are encouraged to explore related books inspired by favorite games.
Games with great stories have the ability to turn a straightforward narrative into something deeply impactful. From those with an established tale to tell, to games where your choices really matter, these story-based games ask a little more of us, but give a whole lot back. Here, we've rounded up the best story games every narrative game lover should play, plus some surprises from games that don't push their story front and center, but still tick all the boxes.
Plenty of these titles would also be at home in the best indie games hall of fame, but we've snuck in a few AAA games with great stories as well. Some are subversive games that will mess with your head, while others craft a cozy game narrative where you can be the hero of your own story. Then of course, once you're finished here, go and figure out what book you should read based on your favourite game.
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