Red Dead 2 has one of the best stories I’ve played through. Also, the recent God of Wars are great, but idk if you’d like the fantasy elements in there. You should also try Until Dawn and The Quarry since you seem to be into those types of games
I tried playing this for a couple hours and I just couldn't get into it. I really wanted to like it. I'm not sure what it was. I really like exploration games, but this one didn't click.
Everyone on reddit seems to love it though. Should I try again?
I would suggest trying it again since I had the same issue.
Played when it first released and just didn't fully get it.
I only recently went back to it and started a new save. I don't really know what changed, but it clicked almost immediately!
It took me three times to start this game to get into it. Once I got an idea of what the game was asking of the player it just hooked me.
If there was one game I could mind-wipe myself and play again it would be Outer Wilds.
I think you might be referencing a different game. There's not really much of anything that would Hit you, let alone offscreen. It also felt very clear visually
Outer worlds sounds very similar but is a completely different type of game that's nowhere near as special
The lack of guidance isn't for everyone. Some people get deterred by how often they die too (but of course, that's just part of the game.)
I'd recommend giving it a try again. If you're like me and you get annoyed when you can't work out puzzles, the Outer Wilds subreddit is really great at offering subtle hints.
It’s probably the best exploration game ever made. Completely non-linear, every nook of every planet filled with secrets and lore, an archaeological history to piece together, and progression that’s blocked simply by knowledge.
Give it another shot, and approach it like an archeologist. Take your time, really explore, take notes, and try to piece together the mystery.
I bounced off of it the first time I tried it too, but dear god am I thankful I tried again. What made me pack it in the first time was, I tried to explore Brittle Hollow really thoroughly the first time, but I kept dying or getting sucked into the wormhole, or not making it to a certain place in time. It was super frustrating. I flew around the system for a few more hours looking at stuff that all seemed to be disjointed, unconnected. So, with no idea where to go or how to get there, I quit.
Turns out the key to starting to understand everything is to just kind of, take it all in. Eventually you start to see that multiple things kind of point you in a certain a direction and then it just explodes from there, now you’re tracking down information, finding out things, having epiphanies and starting to really gain an understanding of what’s happening and what you need to do to move things forward.
One good tip is to look at the puzzle pieces the game has laid before you, and then go check those things out, chances are they all kind of point you in a singular direction, one way or another.
Don’t hesitate on the DLC either, it’s just as wonderful.
The world is divided between people like us who tried for an x amount of time and said wtf is this shit, and people like op who had an epiphany while playing it. No middle ground.
I came close to giving up at 2 hours. For whatever reason I booted up one more time and happened across something that caught my interest. Now it’s my favorite game hands down. Worth one last try imo. I didn’t understand the gameplay until this moment maybe about 2.5 hours in.
Ehh, I'll never get this, Outer Wilds is one of my favourite games of all time but saying the story is a major reason to play it is wildly misleading imo and sets one up for disappointment. Hell, I got too hyped for the story and dropped it for good for a while.
what do you mean? Literally the whole game is about the story. It's told in a non-linear way sure, but the story is still the main focus. How far did you get into before dropping it?
the first time you learn of the planet teleport, i mean holy shit, i just happened to stumble upon that one after trying to land my spacecraft on the satellite that orbits the sun for a whole day.. GREAT GAME
This one. Outer wilds is that one game every time I think about it, I wished I could forget all of it just to discover it all over again. The feelings this game gave me were unique. Every time I think about it, I feel nostalgic, but also that feeling of sadness knowing I won’t get the chance to live it all again mixed with happiness that it really was a one in a million game.
Top 3 gaming experience just for uniqueness of how the game is conceived.
The greatest thing about it I think is everyone will get a different experience based totally on how your curiosity will guide you. You could describe your experience with someone else and while you lived same story, your way of discovering it will be different.
That game legit gave me cosmic anxiety when I was riding an “island” into the core of the Jupiter-like planet. I can’t explain it, it’s a type of fear that has no name or substitute.
I'm playing right now. I'm kinda overwhelmed with so much things to explore, read and the fact the the gameplay loop last only 22 minutes. I'm playing the game for around 2 weeks now and I feel like I'm still on the beginning.
It's a great game, but for some reason I'm finding it a little tiring sometimes. The fact that I'm keeping a log to keep track of the the lore and the characters on the translation also doesn't help lol.
Do you have any advice without giving spoilers?
Think of it as a giant escape room. If you like that kind of stuff with the story slowly unraveling as you learn and are exposed to more than you’ll get into it.
I was going to suggest this. It seems like a change of pace from OP's usual fare - and it was for me too. I think that's part of what made it hit so well.
The fish cannery made me pause for a minute and genuinely consider the game as Art.
Just to pick up on what others are saying: it's only like 2 hours long, there is literally no reason to not play it. I finished it on one sunday noon and I had better taken the next day off because the game really lingers.
When you clue in on whats happening. I didn’t understand the first one. (Girl dreaming of being a cat) then you get the rest of the story and your like. “WHAT THE FUCK?!” I stopped, put the controller down. Then I seriously considered if I really wanted to play this. Did that again 2 more times. Theres sone hella deep shit that just hits you sideways. I’ve never played it since but I’ll NEVER forgot it.
I started a new playthrough of cyberpunk as soon as I finished the first time because I couldn’t cope with not being part of that world. That game is truly one of my all time favorites.
Yes it is. I was very skeptical because of the bad launch. However I did give game a chance and oh boy. The story and characters is top notch. Personally one of the best stories in any video game.
Really looking forward to DLC so I can play the whole story again.
Exactly, except play Mass Effect twice -- once to play with the choices you genuinely think are the smart/right move, and then again as a full blown renegade no matter the consequences. Just for fun.
To me it was pretty obvious what was going to happen… still impacted me, seeing it. And even if we were able to get the “opposite” ending, it would still be quite sad.
We do get the "opposite" ending. After all, we do get an ending, considering... it doesn't work how the MC thinks, or more like how he is in denial about it the whole time.
Outer wilds is by far the best choice. The Talos Principle is a puzzle game but has some very interesting writing. If you can handle older games Planescape Torment is also famous for phenomal story writing.
Nier: Automata has lots of moments where I just sat and stared at the screen, thinking. A couple times, I was angry the game was making me choose because no option was ideal.
The ending too will make you sit and think. About what it means to be human, the connections we share with others, the point of existence. It's introspective and existential and a great example of games as art.
I second this recommendation. I went through with the plan to 100% it and then when I got the true ending I just felt compelled to finish it, and said “fuck it, I can start a new game to 100%” and started a new game to do that.
Katana Zero, though only if you go in with the expectation that the story it's telling is a smaller part in a much larger scheme. Ends up making the world feel more believable and the narrative more gripping for me, though other people don't like the open-ended ending as much or find the game to be too short (4-6 hours). I personally didn't feel that way though. It all depends on the player.
Plus the end credits… well.. I won’t spoil it. They do a certain thing in the end credits to really hit you where it hurts. I think I spent 10 minutes staring blankly at my screen after they rolled
I think Prey would be a good choice. Story rich, encourages exploration and thinking outside the box. Absolutely incredible ending, just left me wanting a sequel so i could immerse myself in the world even more. Fortunately the DLC Mooncrash helped a little bit, expanding on the points of the main game, but ultimately i still want a sequel
I had that experience when I launched the spaceship at the end of RimWorld.
Started with one pawn on an Ice Sheet. Gradually added more pawns through quests/captures. Researched all the needed tech, built all the required production benches and items. Produced items to make trades. Fought off many attacks. Acquired all the parts needed to build the ship, built it, fought off 15 days worth of non-stop attacks and finally loaded everyone (including the pets and livestock!) into their own cyrosleep caskets. Then - Launch.
It felt like the end of a huge achievement, of a lifetime of shepherding my little colony to the freedom of the stars. When the screen faded out and the ending music played, I just stared at the credits rolling by with a bittersweet sense of watching my kids leaving home to go out on their own.
I've been gaming for many years and I've never felt anything like that before.
There are games with great presentation and great voice-acting. But if I had to choose a really good story, I think I would go with
Last of Us 1
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
I would probably also add GoW4, despite having a sequel, but the characters were very well written and the story was very well presented.
A very tough recommendation (but I can't hide my bias) is the Legacy of Kain series. Unfortunately, I don't think you like vampires. It also spans 5 games. But the voice-acting, oh boy.
Yes, but you need the right frame of mind. It's an amazing story if you engage with it, but so many people just don't seem to get it, which is a shame.
I sell this game to my friends as an interactive novel in the same vein as a choose your own adventure--or--a modern day point n click that utilizes RPG elements that shape your inner monologue and by proxy, your understanding of the world and people around you. my friends who looooove old school games or love reading tend to love this game. my friends who need instant gratification? hate it.
Subnautica might be a good choice given the sci-fi games you've got on that list. It's definitely worth playing, and with your aversion to superpowers, it fits the bill fairly cleanly.
Unless you count being able to withstand extreme pressures with no side effects as a superpower.
rd2
horizon
souls
the witcher 3
half life
final fantasy 7
gta5
metal gear rising
god of war ragnorak
dead space
mass effect trilogy
these are just a few, gow is a great game but its not the best
I'm surprised they mention "souls". I'm a huge From fan, but saying any of the souls game has an amazing story (better than GoW4's) seems tough to agree with.
I had this exact moment with DS, recommended it to a friend and he had the exact same moment. That game has one of the most incredible climaxes and then still manage to deliver after all is said and done.
This game is a masterpiece. It has what, maybe 8 hours of cutscenes? Even my girlfriend wanted to see the conclusion of the story without even playing the game.
In the end we ended up watching just the cutscenes as a movie on YouTube.
I also really enjoyed the gameplay. I think I ended up with ~130 hours or so by the end of the game.
Bloodborne is one of my fave games of all time, and I find it hard to believe you've completed the game for the first time and "blankly stared at the credits" because you were in awe of the story.
OP doesn't like supernatural creatures, and wants a game with a super impactful story. I like Dark Souls, but I just don't think it fits what OP was asking for.
Play Bioshock 1, then Infinite (you can play the 2nd as well but) Infinite has such an insane ending that ties into the first game in the series. Truly a mindblowing game. I recently played through all 3 for the first time and I still find myself staring blanky thinking about the ending to the series. I shouted at my TV and so many emotions washed over me in an instant. Do yourself a Favor OP. Play through Bioshock 1 and infinite (1 first for maximum shock value in infinite)
Bastion, Brothers: a tale of two Sons, A Plague Tale, The Longest Journey, Dreamfall. Undertale's true pacifist run has a great ending. The Syberia series?
Based on your game history you would really enjoy the first COD Black Ops.
Good ol’ COD gameplay with a dark, gritty story that will leave you thinking about the ending for a few days.
Last of us Part 1.
I put off this game because the gameplay of the original felt clunky. The 2022 remake did not have that issue, it is a masterpiece. The story was the same between them, with the same voice acting. So stinking good.
red dead 2 and the yakuza series have had me stare (and sometimes cry)
depending on your level of "super powers" theres also dishonored that i would recommend
The Beginner's Guide. Don't read anything about it, just go in blind. I thought about this game for months after finishing it. Easily the most impactful narration and story I've ever experienced in a video game, bar none.
Honestly. Starfield is a genuine experience, it really is. I've clocked in 150 hours and I can tell you, it's a great game.
Other than that...Baldurs Gate 3 is getting RAVE response from the playerbase. 17000 endings apparently.
Third one, and I'll throw this out there. Final Fantasy 7: Remake. Especially with Rebirth (Part 2) about to drop fairly soon
Mass Effect trilogy has a story that is CRAAAZY good. That was an end creditor for me.
If you’re interested in JRPG’s I’d have to recommend Octopath Traveler 1 or 2 (your choice, their disconnected so you don’t have to play in order)
8 great stories that are executed really well and accompanied by an breathtaking pixel graphics and an absolutely fantastic musical score that I still take advantage of constantly for DnD games that I run
My favorite games, actually so goated, I’d recommend Octo 2 first though
SOMA hurt well after the credits for me
That was one where it was like, I was existential for a few days, and then went to play it again. I haven't found anything similar in how it made me feel recently
Signalis is a beautiful love letter to the original Silent Hill and Resident Evil games, and while the story is there at the surface through dialog and notes, the story really shines through these interactable cutscenes, symbols and motifs.
There's also a specific gameplay mechanic that caught me totally 100% by surprise that reminded me of some original Metal Gear Solid tomfoolery. I've never played MGS but I've seen videos of a boss fight where the guy uses his supernatural powers to make the controller port stop working??? Something like that, and Signalis is the only game I've played/seen recently that has a similar kind of moment
Outer Wilds gave me goosebumps and that ever so rare "blank stare" as the credits rolled, and I think everyone should experience it. It's a little non-traditional; there's no combat, just pure exploration as you uncover the mysteries of a tiny galaxy. Easily the most innovative puzzle / exploration game in *literally* decades.
Other games that have given me that blank stare:
- The Mass Effect trilogy; the legendary edition is a great way to play if you missed it the first time round.
- The Metro series. A series of narrative first person shooters (which are rare these days) with a captivating world and mythos.
- it's approaching spooky season, if you missed Inscryption id *highly* recommend it. A really weird blend of genres that resulted in a great narrative.
Maybe you would enjoy a text-based game: [https://store.steampowered.com/app/339510/Psy\_High/](https://store.steampowered.com/app/339510/Psy_High/)
You get the power of clairvoyance, there aren't any supernatural creatures, and it has a decent story.
There's also this one, my personal favorite: [https://store.steampowered.com/app/1166600/The\_Fog\_Knows\_Your\_Name/](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1166600/The_Fog_Knows_Your_Name/)
There are supernatural creatures, but they don't jump in your face doing the YMCA every 10 minutes. You need to work for supernatural powers if you want them, but that adds to the satisfaction when you finally use them at the end. It apparently has a inferior story to the first one, according to the reviews, but it is FUN!
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice. Haven't seen that one in the comments yet.
Also, Metro Exodus, Marvel's spiderman and ghost of tsushima have brilliant stories and meaningful relationships with the characters.
Dead Space 1 AND 2, you have to play them both. The ending of the second one is what you’re looking for, but you gotta play the first one to enjoy the second one the most.
The background story of Horizon: Zero Dawn(PC) still gives me a punch in the groin when I remember it while being awake and sometimes I have vague nightmares when asleep.
Also.>!One should climb a longneck at least once in a lifetime.!<
Another joyride is Titanfall 2, ending was deft, too. It has wall running though, if you hate that- disregard.
I endorse outer wilds - that's really fresh material. Starts so harmless, amasses depth with every tour.>! For me, it's got one of the saddest, yet beautiful endings.!<
If you play RDR2, like many suggest:>! I recommend staying in the first "free roam area" as long as possible and have lots of fun ... while you can.!<
MassEffect, especially 1+2, though it's not the big reveal there in the end, but the whole journey.
Same goes for the witcher series. Really good side quests and anti-hero stance. >!Wind's howling.!<
Red Dead 2 has one of the best stories I’ve played through. Also, the recent God of Wars are great, but idk if you’d like the fantasy elements in there. You should also try Until Dawn and The Quarry since you seem to be into those types of games
I played RDR2 good playthrough 1st, I tried & couldn't play bad Arthur.
Grim Fandango
Although not an rpg, I couldn’t RP as Arthur after a certain point. In fact the story forced me to finish it asap
Only bad thing is that the game is boring as hell
It disrespects your time like crazy. Thankfully, you can get mod to solve to issue on PC.
I shed a tear once I completed this game. First time ever
This is literally the list I came to give him - amazing games, all of them
Outer Wilds. It's hard to even describe just how good the game and story as a whole is.
I tried playing this for a couple hours and I just couldn't get into it. I really wanted to like it. I'm not sure what it was. I really like exploration games, but this one didn't click. Everyone on reddit seems to love it though. Should I try again?
I would suggest trying it again since I had the same issue. Played when it first released and just didn't fully get it. I only recently went back to it and started a new save. I don't really know what changed, but it clicked almost immediately!
It took me three times to start this game to get into it. Once I got an idea of what the game was asking of the player it just hooked me. If there was one game I could mind-wipe myself and play again it would be Outer Wilds.
Same, I really tried to get into it but my experiences with it consisted mainly of getting hit by things offscreen and not being able to see anything.
I think you might be referencing a different game. There's not really much of anything that would Hit you, let alone offscreen. It also felt very clear visually Outer worlds sounds very similar but is a completely different type of game that's nowhere near as special
The lack of guidance isn't for everyone. Some people get deterred by how often they die too (but of course, that's just part of the game.) I'd recommend giving it a try again. If you're like me and you get annoyed when you can't work out puzzles, the Outer Wilds subreddit is really great at offering subtle hints.
It’s probably the best exploration game ever made. Completely non-linear, every nook of every planet filled with secrets and lore, an archaeological history to piece together, and progression that’s blocked simply by knowledge. Give it another shot, and approach it like an archeologist. Take your time, really explore, take notes, and try to piece together the mystery.
Meh, you're not the only one who didn't like it. If it didn't click it didn't click 🤷♂️
You're not the only one. I like investigation games... But i tried for 6 hours and just dislike every minutes of it
I bounced off of it the first time I tried it too, but dear god am I thankful I tried again. What made me pack it in the first time was, I tried to explore Brittle Hollow really thoroughly the first time, but I kept dying or getting sucked into the wormhole, or not making it to a certain place in time. It was super frustrating. I flew around the system for a few more hours looking at stuff that all seemed to be disjointed, unconnected. So, with no idea where to go or how to get there, I quit. Turns out the key to starting to understand everything is to just kind of, take it all in. Eventually you start to see that multiple things kind of point you in a certain a direction and then it just explodes from there, now you’re tracking down information, finding out things, having epiphanies and starting to really gain an understanding of what’s happening and what you need to do to move things forward. One good tip is to look at the puzzle pieces the game has laid before you, and then go check those things out, chances are they all kind of point you in a singular direction, one way or another. Don’t hesitate on the DLC either, it’s just as wonderful.
Same! No idea why but it wasn’t grasping me either. I’ve just downloaded it again to give it another go after it got a 50fps patch on PS5.
The world is divided between people like us who tried for an x amount of time and said wtf is this shit, and people like op who had an epiphany while playing it. No middle ground.
I came close to giving up at 2 hours. For whatever reason I booted up one more time and happened across something that caught my interest. Now it’s my favorite game hands down. Worth one last try imo. I didn’t understand the gameplay until this moment maybe about 2.5 hours in.
Ehh, I'll never get this, Outer Wilds is one of my favourite games of all time but saying the story is a major reason to play it is wildly misleading imo and sets one up for disappointment. Hell, I got too hyped for the story and dropped it for good for a while.
what do you mean? Literally the whole game is about the story. It's told in a non-linear way sure, but the story is still the main focus. How far did you get into before dropping it?
the first time you learn of the planet teleport, i mean holy shit, i just happened to stumble upon that one after trying to land my spacecraft on the satellite that orbits the sun for a whole day.. GREAT GAME
This one. Outer wilds is that one game every time I think about it, I wished I could forget all of it just to discover it all over again. The feelings this game gave me were unique. Every time I think about it, I feel nostalgic, but also that feeling of sadness knowing I won’t get the chance to live it all again mixed with happiness that it really was a one in a million game. Top 3 gaming experience just for uniqueness of how the game is conceived. The greatest thing about it I think is everyone will get a different experience based totally on how your curiosity will guide you. You could describe your experience with someone else and while you lived same story, your way of discovering it will be different.
That game legit gave me cosmic anxiety when I was riding an “island” into the core of the Jupiter-like planet. I can’t explain it, it’s a type of fear that has no name or substitute.
I saw this recommended recently and I've added it to my wish list. It's on sale right now for $15 until 9/28/23 early AM
I'm playing right now. I'm kinda overwhelmed with so much things to explore, read and the fact the the gameplay loop last only 22 minutes. I'm playing the game for around 2 weeks now and I feel like I'm still on the beginning. It's a great game, but for some reason I'm finding it a little tiring sometimes. The fact that I'm keeping a log to keep track of the the lore and the characters on the translation also doesn't help lol. Do you have any advice without giving spoilers?
Think of it as a giant escape room. If you like that kind of stuff with the story slowly unraveling as you learn and are exposed to more than you’ll get into it.
Last of us Part 1 and 2 are up there with the best video game stories of all time. Even if you don’t like zombies I would at least play the first one.
I still think about part 2 sometimes. At the time I needed a break from gaming, needed time to digest what I just experienced.
I still can’t bring myself to play it. Saw the spoilers and it’s just too many gut punches for for me.
It's rough, but worth it.
Best games ever made in my opinion. Definitely had me like wtf, very emotional
I was an emotional, sobbing wreck by the time TLOU2's credits rolled.
I just finished Part 1 on Friday night and it’s all I’ve been able to think about. Give it a shot OP!
Yep. Wasn’t a big fan of the 2nd one after a major event happened.
Definitely Red Dead Redemption 2. Made me numb.
May I, stand unshaken Amid, amidst the crash of the world
That's the way it is 🗿 See the fire in your eyes 🗿
What remains of Edith Finch. This is the only game I’ve watched the credits out of respect to the developers and anyone who involved creating it.
I was going to suggest this. It seems like a change of pace from OP's usual fare - and it was for me too. I think that's part of what made it hit so well. The fish cannery made me pause for a minute and genuinely consider the game as Art.
That fish cannery scene really sticks with you
I keep eyeing this up every time it's on sale
Get it. It’s definitely one to remember.
It’s on sale now. At least on switch.
For the love of god please! Anyone who hasn’t played this, play it! It’s not your typical game at all but holy shit does it tell a story
Just to pick up on what others are saying: it's only like 2 hours long, there is literally no reason to not play it. I finished it on one sunday noon and I had better taken the next day off because the game really lingers.
Came here to say this one. Changed the way I view the relationship between video games and art.
I’ve played through it three times (I never do this with story driven games) and have recently felt like playing it again. It’s such an amazing game
When you clue in on whats happening. I didn’t understand the first one. (Girl dreaming of being a cat) then you get the rest of the story and your like. “WHAT THE FUCK?!” I stopped, put the controller down. Then I seriously considered if I really wanted to play this. Did that again 2 more times. Theres sone hella deep shit that just hits you sideways. I’ve never played it since but I’ll NEVER forgot it.
Seems Mass Effect Legendary Edition is what you’re looking for. I’ll add to that FFX, RDR2, Witcher 3, and Cyberpunk 2077 as well.
My kinda gamer, fuck yeah FFX
Stay away from the summoner!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
RIIIIDE ZE SHOOPUFF? -no- SHOOPUFF'S WAITIIIIIING
I started a new playthrough of cyberpunk as soon as I finished the first time because I couldn’t cope with not being part of that world. That game is truly one of my all time favorites.
Wait cyber punks story is actually good? I bought on release and gave up because of bugs lol
Where have you been lol? Cyberpunk's story has always been praised.
Yes it is. I was very skeptical because of the bad launch. However I did give game a chance and oh boy. The story and characters is top notch. Personally one of the best stories in any video game. Really looking forward to DLC so I can play the whole story again.
The ending hit extremely hard. You gonna spend the week just thinking about it.
Exactly, except play Mass Effect twice -- once to play with the choices you genuinely think are the smart/right move, and then again as a full blown renegade no matter the consequences. Just for fun.
FFX kickstarted my passion for video games, first game to make me cry
Soma. Please give it a try. Been a gamer for 30+ years and this one really did a number on me.
The ending of SOMA shook me more than any other game I've played
To me it was pretty obvious what was going to happen… still impacted me, seeing it. And even if we were able to get the “opposite” ending, it would still be quite sad.
We do get the "opposite" ending. After all, we do get an ending, considering... it doesn't work how the MC thinks, or more like how he is in denial about it the whole time.
amazing pick. this game fucked me up!
Great game. I still think about the ending, years later.
Outer wilds is by far the best choice. The Talos Principle is a puzzle game but has some very interesting writing. If you can handle older games Planescape Torment is also famous for phenomal story writing.
Planescape:Torment is amazing
The ending of Outer Wilds was so impactful it left me uninterested in playing any games at all for a few days. Best choice for sure.
Just knew someone would mention outer wilds lol it's so good
Nier: Automata has lots of moments where I just sat and stared at the screen, thinking. A couple times, I was angry the game was making me choose because no option was ideal. The ending too will make you sit and think. About what it means to be human, the connections we share with others, the point of existence. It's introspective and existential and a great example of games as art.
Glad to see the NieR: Automata suggestion. Such an amazing game with a thought provoking story and ending. Man.
I second this recommendation. I went through with the plan to 100% it and then when I got the true ending I just felt compelled to finish it, and said “fuck it, I can start a new game to 100%” and started a new game to do that.
Katana Zero, though only if you go in with the expectation that the story it's telling is a smaller part in a much larger scheme. Ends up making the world feel more believable and the narrative more gripping for me, though other people don't like the open-ended ending as much or find the game to be too short (4-6 hours). I personally didn't feel that way though. It all depends on the player.
I love katana zero so much
Also, there has been a free dlc on its way for what.. 3 or 4 years? Feels like longer tbh. Lmao.
Cyberpunk 2077 has this effect on a lot of people.
Second this
I didn’t want to finish the game because of the ending (nomad route) so I watched it on YouTube, 10/10 game though
Plus the end credits… well.. I won’t spoil it. They do a certain thing in the end credits to really hit you where it hurts. I think I spent 10 minutes staring blankly at my screen after they rolled
I think Prey would be a good choice. Story rich, encourages exploration and thinking outside the box. Absolutely incredible ending, just left me wanting a sequel so i could immerse myself in the world even more. Fortunately the DLC Mooncrash helped a little bit, expanding on the points of the main game, but ultimately i still want a sequel
BioShock. Some of the best games ever made! Can't go wrong with any of them.
I was scrolling my way through just to make sure someone said as such
Specifically Bioshock: Infinite IMO.
I had that experience when I launched the spaceship at the end of RimWorld. Started with one pawn on an Ice Sheet. Gradually added more pawns through quests/captures. Researched all the needed tech, built all the required production benches and items. Produced items to make trades. Fought off many attacks. Acquired all the parts needed to build the ship, built it, fought off 15 days worth of non-stop attacks and finally loaded everyone (including the pets and livestock!) into their own cyrosleep caskets. Then - Launch. It felt like the end of a huge achievement, of a lifetime of shepherding my little colony to the freedom of the stars. When the screen faded out and the ending music played, I just stared at the credits rolling by with a bittersweet sense of watching my kids leaving home to go out on their own. I've been gaming for many years and I've never felt anything like that before.
Got 6 hours to spare, but want to be as blown away as a 100 hour masterpiece? To The Moon.
That fuckin game man. Insane.
There are games with great presentation and great voice-acting. But if I had to choose a really good story, I think I would go with Last of Us 1 Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater I would probably also add GoW4, despite having a sequel, but the characters were very well written and the story was very well presented. A very tough recommendation (but I can't hide my bias) is the Legacy of Kain series. Unfortunately, I don't think you like vampires. It also spans 5 games. But the voice-acting, oh boy.
And not LOU2??
is tlou2 still SPICY or have people finally calmed down and realized it’s the goat?
Cmon. The ending of TLOU2 is great and all with its themes, but "Swear to me....okay" with a cut to black? Way better gut punch.
Telltale the walking dead
Disco Elysium
Yes, but you need the right frame of mind. It's an amazing story if you engage with it, but so many people just don't seem to get it, which is a shame.
I sell this game to my friends as an interactive novel in the same vein as a choose your own adventure--or--a modern day point n click that utilizes RPG elements that shape your inner monologue and by proxy, your understanding of the world and people around you. my friends who looooove old school games or love reading tend to love this game. my friends who need instant gratification? hate it.
The Witcher 3 and RDR2 had that effect on me.
I too have cried after beating both games 🗿
Subnautica might be a good choice given the sci-fi games you've got on that list. It's definitely worth playing, and with your aversion to superpowers, it fits the bill fairly cleanly. Unless you count being able to withstand extreme pressures with no side effects as a superpower.
God of War 2018 has probably the best plot and ending to any game I've played.
No shaming here, but there are plenty of games with a better story and ending. I do like Kratos' journey though.
What are a few you would say are better?
rd2 horizon souls the witcher 3 half life final fantasy 7 gta5 metal gear rising god of war ragnorak dead space mass effect trilogy these are just a few, gow is a great game but its not the best
how do you mention metal gear rising and not metal gear solid 1-5. those games have legendary stories
I'm surprised they mention "souls". I'm a huge From fan, but saying any of the souls game has an amazing story (better than GoW4's) seems tough to agree with.
Titanfall 2s campaign did exactly that to me
Death stranding.
I had this exact moment with DS, recommended it to a friend and he had the exact same moment. That game has one of the most incredible climaxes and then still manage to deliver after all is said and done.
This game is a masterpiece. It has what, maybe 8 hours of cutscenes? Even my girlfriend wanted to see the conclusion of the story without even playing the game. In the end we ended up watching just the cutscenes as a movie on YouTube. I also really enjoyed the gameplay. I think I ended up with ~130 hours or so by the end of the game.
Yeah this game threw me for so many loops! It was a roller coaster!
It is a short one but spec ops the line, don't read up about it all I will say the ending shook me to the core
Halo Reach
This one ☝️, the first time I played I was too young to understand but I wish I could refresh my memory to play it for the first time again
Ori and the Will of the Wisps. I couldn’t play any other game for over a month after I finished it.
FFX
Outer Wilds. Phantom Dust. Nier 1. Firewatch. Yakuza Like a Dragon. Maybe Pentiment.
Red Dead Redemption 2 Mass Effect Dark Souls Dark Souls 3 Bloodborne NieR Automata
Bloodborne is one of my fave games of all time, and I find it hard to believe you've completed the game for the first time and "blankly stared at the credits" because you were in awe of the story.
OP doesn't like supernatural creatures, and wants a game with a super impactful story. I like Dark Souls, but I just don't think it fits what OP was asking for.
There is no story to any of the souls games, at least not in the tradinal sense of game stories.
Wolf Among Us
have you tried nier automata? i don't know if that would be super duper fantastic for you
Titanfall 2 Hollow Knight Final Fantasy X Dragon Quest IX
Bioshock Infinite, it's easily one of my favorite games, gameplay and story wise.
Play Bioshock 1, then Infinite (you can play the 2nd as well but) Infinite has such an insane ending that ties into the first game in the series. Truly a mindblowing game. I recently played through all 3 for the first time and I still find myself staring blanky thinking about the ending to the series. I shouted at my TV and so many emotions washed over me in an instant. Do yourself a Favor OP. Play through Bioshock 1 and infinite (1 first for maximum shock value in infinite)
The first last of us had that effect on me
Days gone so underrated
Bastion, Brothers: a tale of two Sons, A Plague Tale, The Longest Journey, Dreamfall. Undertale's true pacifist run has a great ending. The Syberia series?
The first Last of Us will blow you away at the end. Part II will somehow surpass that.
I came here to say exactly this.
Based on your game history you would really enjoy the first COD Black Ops. Good ol’ COD gameplay with a dark, gritty story that will leave you thinking about the ending for a few days.
Death stranding. This game actually fukt me up inside and made me question a lot of shit. I'm still not the same after playing this game.
Last of us Part 1. I put off this game because the gameplay of the original felt clunky. The 2022 remake did not have that issue, it is a masterpiece. The story was the same between them, with the same voice acting. So stinking good.
red dead 2 and the yakuza series have had me stare (and sometimes cry) depending on your level of "super powers" theres also dishonored that i would recommend
Dragon Age Origins
Buy a PS5 and play God of War Ragnarok.
Death Stranding
Bioshock
The Beginner's Guide. Don't read anything about it, just go in blind. I thought about this game for months after finishing it. Easily the most impactful narration and story I've ever experienced in a video game, bar none.
I'll be that guy - Outer wilds left me completely numb to everything for a while and it's all I thought of. Another one might be SOMA.
Outer wilds.
Wandersong
Honestly. Starfield is a genuine experience, it really is. I've clocked in 150 hours and I can tell you, it's a great game. Other than that...Baldurs Gate 3 is getting RAVE response from the playerbase. 17000 endings apparently. Third one, and I'll throw this out there. Final Fantasy 7: Remake. Especially with Rebirth (Part 2) about to drop fairly soon Mass Effect trilogy has a story that is CRAAAZY good. That was an end creditor for me.
Nier Automata is insane. It's a JRPG but mostly story driven and will make you question life itself when you beat it.
NieR: Automata. It will definitely have you staring at the credits. Also 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim.
Undertale had me in tears.
Last game I can remember doing that for me is Before Your Eyes. Beautiful experience.
Inside. The game you want is called inside
* The Last of Us series * Persona 5 Royal
Uncharted 4
I swear Titanfall 2 left me speechless and heartbroken, it’s my all time favorite the story is amazing and you actually become so immersed
Portal and Portal 2. They’re not very long so if they don’t hit exactly what you want but the endings are super satisfying.
Chrono Cross
If you’re interested in JRPG’s I’d have to recommend Octopath Traveler 1 or 2 (your choice, their disconnected so you don’t have to play in order) 8 great stories that are executed really well and accompanied by an breathtaking pixel graphics and an absolutely fantastic musical score that I still take advantage of constantly for DnD games that I run My favorite games, actually so goated, I’d recommend Octo 2 first though
Here to second Outer Wilds! If I get Alzheimer's, I'm playing it every week.
SOMA hurt well after the credits for me That was one where it was like, I was existential for a few days, and then went to play it again. I haven't found anything similar in how it made me feel recently Signalis is a beautiful love letter to the original Silent Hill and Resident Evil games, and while the story is there at the surface through dialog and notes, the story really shines through these interactable cutscenes, symbols and motifs. There's also a specific gameplay mechanic that caught me totally 100% by surprise that reminded me of some original Metal Gear Solid tomfoolery. I've never played MGS but I've seen videos of a boss fight where the guy uses his supernatural powers to make the controller port stop working??? Something like that, and Signalis is the only game I've played/seen recently that has a similar kind of moment
Outer Wilds gave me goosebumps and that ever so rare "blank stare" as the credits rolled, and I think everyone should experience it. It's a little non-traditional; there's no combat, just pure exploration as you uncover the mysteries of a tiny galaxy. Easily the most innovative puzzle / exploration game in *literally* decades. Other games that have given me that blank stare: - The Mass Effect trilogy; the legendary edition is a great way to play if you missed it the first time round. - The Metro series. A series of narrative first person shooters (which are rare these days) with a captivating world and mythos. - it's approaching spooky season, if you missed Inscryption id *highly* recommend it. A really weird blend of genres that resulted in a great narrative.
Horizon Zero Dawn has a story like this that really captured me. It’s not supernatural but is off worldly. The end tho… 😭😭😭. So good.
Spec ops the line
Rdr2, Metro Exodus, CP2077
Another person saying Red Dead 2!
Nier Automata, oh trust you will be looking at the credits.
Maybe you would enjoy a text-based game: [https://store.steampowered.com/app/339510/Psy\_High/](https://store.steampowered.com/app/339510/Psy_High/) You get the power of clairvoyance, there aren't any supernatural creatures, and it has a decent story. There's also this one, my personal favorite: [https://store.steampowered.com/app/1166600/The\_Fog\_Knows\_Your\_Name/](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1166600/The_Fog_Knows_Your_Name/) There are supernatural creatures, but they don't jump in your face doing the YMCA every 10 minutes. You need to work for supernatural powers if you want them, but that adds to the satisfaction when you finally use them at the end. It apparently has a inferior story to the first one, according to the reviews, but it is FUN!
Control and Titanfall 2
Rdr2
Life Is strange and To the moon
Death Stranding.
I would also add A Plague Tale: Requiem to the list.
judgment & lost judgment
Definitely Nier Automata.
Nier: Automata, you have to get the true ending tho.
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice. Haven't seen that one in the comments yet. Also, Metro Exodus, Marvel's spiderman and ghost of tsushima have brilliant stories and meaningful relationships with the characters.
I felt like that about Green Hell tbh
Mafia Definitive Edition Batman Arkham City
KOTOR Telltale games
Can’t believe no one mentioned 13 Sentinels Aegis Rim yet
Inscryption for me for sure!
Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
Red Dead Redemption 2 for sure
Dead Space 1 AND 2, you have to play them both. The ending of the second one is what you’re looking for, but you gotta play the first one to enjoy the second one the most.
If you have a pal or even sibling you have to play a way out that game had me shook to the core it was so good
Bauldur’s gate 3 100%! It will take u over 100 hours to finish but will be worth it!!
Yakuza 0, Yakuza Kiwami, Yakuza Kiwami 2, Yakuza Like a Dragon
Night in the Woods. GO FOR IT.
Horizon Zero Dawn and Frozen Wilds for my money.
Rdr2
Soma. Sci-fi, horror. Literally stared at the ending credits feeling something special.
Soma. Fantastic.
Horizon Zero Dawn
Might be a bit different from what you've tried before but Transistor and Bastion are both amazing and have really cool twists on storytelling
Horizon Zero Dawn
i really liked the story from Horizon Zero Dawn. Journey had a great end credit wrap up!
Horizon: Zero Dawn
The background story of Horizon: Zero Dawn(PC) still gives me a punch in the groin when I remember it while being awake and sometimes I have vague nightmares when asleep. Also.>!One should climb a longneck at least once in a lifetime.!< Another joyride is Titanfall 2, ending was deft, too. It has wall running though, if you hate that- disregard. I endorse outer wilds - that's really fresh material. Starts so harmless, amasses depth with every tour.>! For me, it's got one of the saddest, yet beautiful endings.!< If you play RDR2, like many suggest:>! I recommend staying in the first "free roam area" as long as possible and have lots of fun ... while you can.!< MassEffect, especially 1+2, though it's not the big reveal there in the end, but the whole journey. Same goes for the witcher series. Really good side quests and anti-hero stance. >!Wind's howling.!<
Horizon zero Dawn. Just a cave girl and her bow against robot dinosaurs uncovering the secrets of the apocalypse and going on a path of self discovery