This article will tell you about the top 10 greatest video game storylines of all time
The best gaming tales have the ability to capture our imaginations, steal our hearts, and effectively transport us to other realms. When done effectively, they can even leave an impression on us long after the game has ended.
Because of the participatory nature of games, we can truly feel as if we have a say in how a journey unfolds, and some of the best gaming storylines can rival those of novels and films.
We’ve seen some incredibly riveting experiences tell stories that have made us want to repeat them time and time again over the years, so it’s no surprise that so many of the games on this list are also among the best games to replay.
Many of the choices below also have a distinctive cast that brings the plot to life, as well as some of the best game companions available.
There are so many amazing adventures to uncover, from emotionally-driven indies that tug at your heartstrings to expansive RPGs that sweep you up in a grand adventure. So buckle up as we go over the best game stories we’ve seen over the years.
Creating a list of the top 10 best video game storylines is subjective, as different players have different preferences.
10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)
“The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” is renowned for its intricate narrative and compelling storytelling. Players assume the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, as they navigate a war-torn, morally complex world filled with political intrigue and unforgettable characters.
The game’s branching storyline and morally ambiguous choices make it a standout in the RPG genre.
9. The Last of Us (2013)
“The Last of Us” weaves a poignant tale of survival, love, and loss in a post-apocalyptic world. Players control Joel, a grizzled smuggler, and Ellie, a young girl, as they traverse a dangerous landscape.
The game’s emotional depth and character development set a new standard for storytelling in the action-adventure genre.
8. Bioshock (2007)
“Bioshock” takes players to the underwater city of Rapture, blending a rich narrative with thought-provoking themes. The game’s exploration of Objectivism, morality, and human nature is intertwined with a gripping story. Its plot twists and immersive world-building have left a lasting impact on gaming.
7. Red Dead Redemption (2010)
“Red Dead Redemption” offers an evocative tale set in the dying days of the Wild West. Players follow John Marston, a former outlaw, on a quest for redemption as he battles against the moral decay of the era. The game’s rich characters and moral ambiguity create a compelling narrative that pays homage to classic Westerns.
6. Planescape: Torment (1999)
“Planescape: Torment” is an isometric RPG celebrated for its philosophical and existential storytelling. Players take on the role of the Nameless One, an immortal amnesiac, as they explore the Planescape multiverse.
The game delves deep into themes of identity, mortality, and the nature of reality, offering a truly unique narrative experience.
5. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)
“The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” offers a vast open-world adventure with an epic storyline. Players become the Dragonborn, a prophesied hero, and are thrust into the midst of a civil war while facing an ancient dragon threat.
The game’s rich lore, branching quests, and the freedom to shape the world make it a narrative masterpiece in the RPG genre.
4. Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare Series (2009-2016)
The “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare” series is a gritty and contemporary take on military combat. It focuses on a fictional near-future conflict involving international terrorism and global warfare.
The series features intense campaigns with interconnected storylines, revolving around various elite military forces. Iconic characters like Captain Price and Soap MacTavish are central to the narrative.
Themes of moral ambiguity, political intrigue, and the consequences of warfare are prevalent throughout. The series is known for its cinematic storytelling, engaging characters, and memorable moments, setting a high standard for modern military-themed video games.
3. The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings (2011)
“The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings” stands out for its branching narrative and moral choices. Players follow Geralt as he becomes embroiled in political turmoil and hunts the kingslayers. The game’s non-linear storytelling and morally ambiguous decisions have set the bar for storytelling in RPGs.
2. Red Dead Redemption II (2018)
“Red Dead Redemption II” is an epic tale set in the American Wild West in 1899. Players step into the boots of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw and member of the Van der Linde gang.
As the gang’s way of life disintegrates, Arthur grapples with morality, loyalty, and survival in a changing world. The gripping narrative explores themes of loyalty, family, and the consequences of one’s actions as players make choices that shape the story.
The game’s richly developed characters, immersive open world, and moral dilemmas make it a masterclass in storytelling and a memorable journey through the twilight of the Wild West.
1. The Last of Us Part II (2020)
“The Last of Us Part II” continues the story of Ellie and Joel, exploring themes of revenge, forgiveness, and the consequences of one’s actions.
The game’s complex characters, exceptional performances, and emotionally charged narrative make it a standout in storytelling and an exemplar of narrative-driven gaming.
While the order of this list is subjective and may vary from person to person, these 10 video games are celebrated for their exceptional storytelling and have made a profound impact on the medium, setting a high bar for narrative-driven gaming experiences.
