The Best Game Stories That Will Make You Laugh, Cry, and More!

Unveiling the Most Captivating Narratives in Gaming The 25 Best Video Game Stories of All Time

25. Marvel’s Guardian’s of the Galaxy

Imagine being StarLord, blasting your way through space with a ragtag crew that’s as dysfunctional as your uncle’s Thanksgiving dinner. Marvel’s Guardian’s of the Galaxy takes you on an action-packed journey full of laughs, tears, and more pelvic thrusts than you can shake a Groot at. Each character brings their own unique quirks to the table, and you get to choose how the adventure unfolds. It’s like being in a choose-your-own-adventure book, but with better special effects and fewer paper cuts.

Check out our Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy review for more intergalactic awesomeness.

24. Final Fantasy 6

Ah, Final Fantasy. The game series that has more sequels than a Hollywood blockbuster and more fan theories than a season finale of Lost. Final Fantasy 6 is the crown jewel of the franchise, with a sprawling tale of magic, hidden lineages, and a villain so despicable he makes Cruella de Vil look like a cuddly kitten. This game is like a fireworks show of emotions, with moments of laughter, heartbreak, and sacrifice. It’s a storyline so epic and captivating that even your grandma would put down her knitting needles to watch.

23. Undertale

Undertale is a game like no other. It’s got monsters, goat-people, and enough magic to make Harry Potter jealous. But beneath its quirky surface lies a touching exploration of empathy (or the lack thereof), like a therapy session with a whimsical twist. Your actions have consequences, and every decision you make shapes the narrative. It’s like being a puppet master, but instead of controlling puppets, you’re controlling the emotions of the characters. It’s a game that will make you think, laugh, and maybe even shed a tear or two.

22. Chrono Trigger

Time travel can be a tricky storytelling device, like trying to untangle a slinky that’s been twisted into a double helix by a mischievous cat. But in Chrono Trigger, time travel is used with finesse, weaving a tale that spans centuries and brings together a cast of characters so diverse, you’d think they came straight out of a reality TV show. The game teaches us that no matter how much our world changes, people will always be capable of love, greed, and the occasional embarrassing dance-off.

21. GTA 5

GTA 5 is the definition of “expect the unexpected.” It’s a game that defies categorization and keeps you on your toes. One minute you’re pulling off epic heists like a modern-day Robin Hood, and the next you’re switching between characters faster than a professional juggler. The storytelling in GTA 5 is subversive, shocking, and at times downright hilarious. It’s like being in a Tarantino movie, where the lines between hero and villain blur and chaos reigns supreme. Strap in, because you’re in for a wild ride.

20. Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn takes us on a journey to a post-apocalyptic world where robot dinosaurs roam the Earth, and humanity has taken a few steps back on the evolutionary ladder. It’s a story of a kick-ass heroine named Aloy, who challenges the status quo and uncovers the secrets of her world. It’s like playing as Katniss Everdeen in a world where the Hunger Games are replaced with epic battles against mechanized monsters. Prepare to be amazed as you explore breathtaking landscapes and unravel the mysteries of Horizon Zero Dawn.

19. Life is Strange/Life is Strange: Before the Storm

Life is Strange is not just a catchy title – it’s a statement. This episodic adventure tells the story of Max Caulfield and her friend Chloe Price as they navigate the perils of adolescence, love, and a supernatural storm that could wipe their town off the map. The game puts you in the driver’s seat, allowing you to shape the story and see the consequences of your choices unfold. It’s like being a time-traveling detective, solving mysteries and dealing with the everyday struggles of being a teenager. Play it once, play it twice, play it a hundred times – the story always has something new to offer.

18. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

Uncharted 4 is the perfect blend of heart-pounding action and emotional storytelling. It’s like being Indiana Jones, if Indiana Jones had a bit more facial hair and a sarcastic sense of humor. The game follows Nathan Drake on his final adventure, as he confronts his past and discovers the true meaning of treasure. It’s a story filled with breathtaking set pieces, witty banter, and moments of quiet introspection. Get ready to embark on an epic journey, filled with danger, excitement, and a few well-timed one-liners.

17. Firewatch

Firewatch is a game that proves you don’t need explosive action or fantastical settings to tell a captivating story. Set in the Wyoming wilderness, the game follows the journey of Henry, a fire lookout who finds himself entangled in a mystery. It’s a story of isolation, friendship, and unraveling the secrets of the forest. With its beautiful visuals and immersive atmosphere, Firewatch draws you into its world and leaves you craving for more, like a hiker who just discovered a hidden waterfall.

16. Portal 2

Portal 2 takes you on a mind-bending journey through a series of puzzle-filled test chambers, guided by the oh-so-sassy GLaDOS. But beneath the surface of this seemingly innocuous game lies a rich and intriguing narrative. It’s a story of deceit, perseverance, and cake (or the lack thereof). The game introduces us to a cast of characters so lovable, you’ll want to hug them, even if they’re made of bits and bytes. Prepare to have your mind twisted into a pretzel as you navigate the puzzles and unravel the secrets of Portal 2.

15. Persona 4

Persona 4 is a game that defies conventional storytelling. It’s part high school simulator, part murder mystery, and part epic adventure. The game takes you through a year in the life of the protagonist, where you attend school, work part-time jobs, and forge deep connections with your friends. It’s a story about the power of friendship, personal growth, and facing the darkness within ourselves. With its compelling characters, immersive dialogue, and multiple endings, Persona 4 will keep you hooked for hours on end, like a bookworm devouring a page-turner.

14. Red Dead Redemption 2

Saddle up, partner, because we’re heading into the wild west with Red Dead Redemption 2. This game is a masterclass in storytelling, with a narrative that’s as vast and open as the American frontier. It’s a tale of loyalty, redemption, and the high price of freedom. As you roam the plains and engage in epic gunfights, you’ll be captivated by the complex characters and their intertwining stories. Get ready to ride into the sunset with Arthur Morgan and his gang, but be warned – you might shed a tear or two along the way.

13. Mass Effect 2

Assemble your crew, Commander Shepard, because we’re going on a mission to save the galaxy. Mass Effect 2 is an epic space opera filled with thrilling action, deep character development, and choices that can change the course of the story. It’s like playing through your favorite sci-fi movie, where you get to decide who lives, who dies, and who gets punched in the face (hint: it’s usually the bad guys). Get ready to embark on a journey that will test your courage, your morality, and your dance moves (yes, there’s dancing involved).

12. Half-Life 2

Half-Life 2 is the game that keeps on giving, like that one friend who always brings extra snacks to movie night. Set in a dystopian future where aliens have taken over the world, the game puts you in the shoes of Gordon Freeman, the ultimate scientist-turned-action-hero. It’s a story of resistance, survival, and really cool physics puzzles. As you navigate the crumbling cityscape and encounter strange creatures, you’ll uncover the secrets of this twisted world and become a hero in the process. Get ready to grab your crowbar and fight for humanity’s future!

11. Shadow of the Colossus

Prepare for a stunning and emotional journey with Shadow of the Colossus. This game takes you on a quest to defeat massive colossi and bring back a loved one from the clutches of death. It’s a story of sacrifice, solitude, and the consequences of our actions. As you explore the vast and mystical world, you’ll be awestruck by its beauty and moved by the depth of its storytelling. Get ready to ride on the back of giants and face your own inner demons.

10. Metal Gear Solid

Metal Gear Solid is the stealth game that raised the bar for storytelling in video games. With its cinematic cutscenes, intricate plot twists, and unforgettable characters, it’s like playing through a movie directed by a genius with a penchant for cardboard boxes. As Solid Snake, you’ll infiltrate enemy bases, outsmart your foes, and question the nature of war and humanity. It’s a story filled with political intrigue, epic boss battles, and enough sneaking around to give a cat burglar a run for their money.

9. Immortality

Step into the world of Immortality, where mystery awaits at every turn. This interactive trilogy from the developer of Her Story and Telling Lies engrosses you in a gripping tale of a missing film star and the secrets hidden in unreleased movies. You’ll sift through footage, uncovering clues and trying to solve the puzzle of Marissa Marcel’s disappearance. It’s like being a detective, piecing together a jigsaw puzzle in a room filled with shadowy figures. Every detail matters, every choice you make impacts the outcome. Get ready to step into the shoes of a voyeuristic investigator and uncover the truth.

Check out our Immortality review for a peek behind the curtain of this thrilling mystery.

8. God of War

Kratos is back, and he’s traded his bloodlust for a dad bod and a whole lot of parental love. God of War takes us on a journey through Norse mythology, with Kratos and his son Atreus facing off against gods, monsters, and their own internal demons. It’s a story of redemption, growth, and the complexities of family. As you wield Kratos’ mighty axe and battle mythological beasts, you’ll witness a father and son bond like no other. Get ready for epic battles, heartfelt moments, and a journey that will challenge your preconceptions of what a video game story can be.

7. Telltale’s The Walking Dead

Enter the world of The Walking Dead, where zombies roam and your choices determine the fate of the characters you meet. This episodic adventure game puts you in the shoes of Lee Everett, a man on a mission to protect a young girl named Clementine in a world gone to hell. It’s a story of survival, sacrifice, and the lengths we’ll go to protect the ones we love. As you navigate a brutal and unforgiving landscape, you’ll be faced with heart-wrenching decisions that will test your morality and define your character. Get ready for a gut-wrenching ride that will leave you emotionally exhausted (in a good way).

6. The Last of Us

The Last of Us is a game that needs no introduction. It’s the emotional rollercoaster that took the world by storm, like that one ride at the amusement park that made you scream and cry at the same time. Set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by infected, the game follows the journey of Joel and Ellie as they navigate danger, loss, and the bonds that form in the face of adversity. It’s a story of love, sacrifice, and the lengths we’ll go to protect the ones we care about. Prepare to have your heartstrings tugged, your emotions tested, and your gaming experience elevated to new heights.

5. What Remains of Edith Finch

What Remains of Edith Finch is a game that defies traditional storytelling. It’s a collection of strange and poignant stories told through different gameplay styles, like a symphony of emotions conducted by a talented maestro. Each story is a masterpiece in its own right, connecting you to the lives and struggles of the Finch family. It’s a deeply personal and immersive experience that will leave you breathless, like a literary marathon that takes you through the entire library of an eccentric author. Buckle up, because you’re in for a journey through love, loss, and the beauty of life itself.

4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a game that needs no introduction. It’s the epic fantasy adventure that captured the hearts of gamers worldwide, like a dragon hoarding gold and secret stashes of mountain dew. Set in a world inspired by Eastern European folklore, the game follows the journey of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with a heart of gold (and a few potions up his sleeve). It’s a story of love, politics, and the moral gray areas that make life so damn interesting. Get ready to dive into a world of magic, swords, and a bard so annoying he’ll make you wish monsters were real.

3. Baldur’s Gate 3

Baldur’s Gate 3 is a gem among gems, a shining example of narrative excellence in the world of RPGs. It’s an immersive and thrilling adventure that takes you on a journey of discovery, danger, and dark secrets. As you wake up aboard an alien ship with a tadpole parasite in your brain, you’ll unravel the mysteries of the Mindflayers and face a nefarious cult. The characters you meet along the way are brilliantly brought to life, each with their own unique stories and flaws. Prepare to be amazed as you shape the outcome of the story and experience the world of Baldur’s Gate like never before.

Check out our Baldur’s Gate 3 review for more wild adventures.

2. BioShock

BioShock is a masterpiece of storytelling, a game that combines immersive gameplay with a narrative that will leave you in awe. Set in the underwater city of Rapture, the game takes you on a journey through a dystopian society gone mad. It’s a story of power, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. As you navigate the decaying city and uncover its dark secrets, you’ll question your own beliefs and discover the true nature of humanity. Get ready to be immersed in a world where choices matter, and where the line between right and wrong is as murky as the depths of the ocean.

1. Silent Hill 2

Silent Hill 2 is the epitome of horror storytelling, a game that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. It’s a story of guilt, redemption, and the monsters that lurk within us all. Set in the eerie town of Silent Hill, you’ll follow James Sunderland as he searches for his missing wife, only to uncover a twisted plot that will leave you questioning your own sanity. The game’s chilling atmosphere, haunting sound design, and psychological depth make it a masterpiece of storytelling. Get ready for a journey unlike any other, one that will make your skin crawl and your mind tremble.

We hope you enjoyed this whirlwind tour through the best game stories out there. From epic adventures to emotional rollercoasters, these games will leave you laughing, crying, and maybe even questioning the nature of your existence (in a good way). So grab your controller, immerse yourself in these incredible narratives, and prepare to be blown away. Happy gaming!

Let us know in the comments below which game stories have left a lasting impact on you. And if you have any recommendations for future game storytelling masterpieces, we’d love to hear them!