15 Best Story-Driven Games That Play Like a Movie

One key motivation behind my video game playtime is the captivating stories they offer. I find that a game’s worth is largely determined by the intricacy of its narrative and characters, the way these elements unfold over time, and the authenticity of the world-building. These story-driven games invite us to become fully engrossed in their worlds and effortlessly invest in their characters. Many times, I find myself left speechless, clapping as the credits begin to roll.

These are the top story-driven games, which deliver a movie-like experience primarily through their compelling narratives, well-crafted scripts, and skillful use of scene transitions (cutscenes). Our selection focuses on games where the main story can be experienced in a linear progression, without distractions like side quests or exploration, providing an immersive cinematic journey.

1) Alan Wake 2

Using real-life footage (FMV) during its scenes gives Alan Wake 2 a gritty, artistic ambiance that can be somewhat abstract at times. Matching this perfectly with an original soundtrack between chapters enhances the cinematic quality of this sequel even more. The gameplay is relatively minimal, so you’ll probably spend more time engrossed in the story presented through numerous cutscenes and appreciate the eerie charm of the Dark Place.

2) A Plague Tale: Requiem

A tale centering around family and endurance, A Plague Tale: Requiem, is more than just a stunning portrayal of the dreadful Black Plague; it’s also an account of siblings battling to survive in bleak circumstances. The gameplay primarily revolves around stealth and puzzles, propelling you towards an ending that perpetually feels elusive. Their odyssey will linger in your memory for their tenacity, optimism, and selflessness.

3) Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Experiencing an extraordinary and captivating opening scene in gaming, I was instantly spellbound and drawn into this world immediately. Immersive experiences abound with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, as we’re presented with a shrouded narrative, a post-apocalyptic landscape, and characters you can’t help but cheer for. Themes of love and loss, hope and struggle permeate throughout, with mesmerizing cinematics that draw you in after every challenging encounter. The risks are considerable in this game, amplified by the masterful storytelling that leaves no doubt—no one is invincible.

4) Death Stranding

Sam carries the burden of the world, but he refuses to break under the pressure because he has Lou to care for. This story explores renewal and perseverance, with setbacks and failures being a significant part of your journey. By blending fiction and reality, Death Stranding builds an unbreakable bond between player and game. Once this connection is established, it’s challenging to break free from its grip. With its terrifying moments and stunning landscapes, the narrative is hard to resist.

5) Ghost of Tsushima

Stepping into the vivid world of 1274 Japan, I found myself living a timeless tale of revenge, where the unyielding honor of a samurai named Jin takes center stage. As I embarked on my personal odyssey, I witnessed his growth and transformation, making him an inspiring character to rally behind.

In this gripping narrative, I was thrust into the role of a solitary warrior, tasked with gathering allies to challenge the Mongol fleet that devastated our once-thriving island. The game is filled with dramatic intensity, stylish coolness, and breathtaking visuals that capture the essence of samurai life flawlessly, from its combat systems to its stunning landscapes. Simply put, Ghost of Tsushima offers an immersive experience that beautifully embodies the spirit of the samurai.

6) Heavy Rain

If you’re fond of the movie “Minority Report” as I am, then you’ll notice many parallels between that and “Heavy Rain”. This game, created by Quantic Dream (known for titles such as “Beyond Two Souls”, “Fahrenheit”, and “Detroit: Become Human”), revolves around a father’s frantic quest to find his kidnapped son, who has fallen into the hands of the Origami Killer. Filled with decisions you must make and four characters whose lives hang in the balance, this game is one of the most suspenseful experiences you can have. The gameplay and setting change for each character, ensuring that it remains engaging throughout. It’s quite simple to become engrossed in this grim world, as it plays out like a British drama.

7) House of Ashes

Among the Dark Pictures Anthology series, House of Ashes stands out as the top pick. This game combines traditional military action with an intriguing supernatural twist to keep things engaging. The story is compelling because it presents numerous decisions that can determine the fate of your team members. Moreover, the characters are initially unlikable but grow both as soldiers and individuals throughout the game. Action-packed, suspenseful, and highly enjoyable, House of Ashes could very well be a successful movie.

8) IMMORTALITY

This FMV (Full Motion Video) mystery stands out due to its distinctive niche genre and exceptional gameplay. By clicking on elements that catch your eye in the brief clips from one of the three unreleased movies, you’re part of a unique puzzle. These unseen films share a common thread: they all star the same leading actress who mysteriously disappeared. Mirroring the style of a Satoshi Kon production, IMMORTALITY offers an indelible experience as its narrative twists and turns keep you guessing where it’s going next.

9) L.A. Noire

In a simpler and more conversational way, you might say: “Instead of feeling like a movie, L.A. Noire operates more like a real-life detective simulator. However, it’s filled with stylish camera angles as you interrogate suspects, construct cases, and cruise around town. The game has a unique atmosphere, with its music, cars, clothing, and dialogue all contributing to the 1940s movie vibe. It strikes the ideal balance between interrogations, driving, and combat, making it feel like an old-school detective TV series.

10) Red Dead Redemption 2

As a devoted enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at the breathtakingly immersive universe of Red Dead Redemption 2. It’s almost impossible not to miss some of its hidden gems, even after investing countless hours into this masterpiece. The world, with its captivating narrative and lifelike NPCs, truly embodies the essence of the wild west.

As a trusted confidant within the Van der Linde gang, I’ve found myself navigating one conflict after another – not just external threats, but also the internal struggles that shape our bond as a group. When it comes to storytelling and character development, Red Dead Redemption 2 is unparalleled. Its narrative unfolds with such depth and complexity, growing stronger and more compelling with each passing moment.

11) Telltale Games: The Walking Dead

The inaugural season of “Telltale Games: The Walking Dead” mirrors the first two seasons of the TV series – top-tier entertainment. This game, titled “The Walking Dead,” portrays humanity’s resilience in surviving together amid adversity and the determination to persevere. Its distinctive art design sets it apart, but it’s in its main characters where this game truly stands out. By casting us as a criminal, we discover that humans are more intricate than simply good or evil. Although some choices seem insignificant at times, “The Walking Dead” feels like a cinematic experience from beginning to end.

12) The Last of Us

In simpler terms, “The Last of Us” might seem straightforward in its plot, but it offers an exhilarating narrative ride. You assume the role of a man who’s lost everything, only to find renewed purpose in transporting an immune teenager across America amidst a zombie pandemic. The game presents a harsh, despair-filled world, yet we persist and live for another moment with our cherished ones. Both installments serve as a voyage for both characters and players, filled with heartrending, emotional, and incredibly poignant scenes that you’ll never forget.

13) Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

In a blend of Indiana Jones’s adventure and John McClane’s action, Nathan Drake and his crew breathe life into the game “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.” The game deftly combines intense action with numerous humorous scenes that make time fly. With an optimal mix of cutscenes, shooting, and platforming, “Among Thieves” is a delight to play through. Remarkably, the dialogue isn’t confined to just the cutscenes, making the world you’re battling through feel even more authentic and engaging. Employing a conventional movie structure with character development, conflict, and a climactic confrontation against the primary threat, “Among Thieves” is a must-play for fans of movies.

14) Until Dawn

If you’re searching for a video game that offers an immersive movie-like experience, I would highly recommend Until Dawn. The narrative, while reminiscent of I Know What You Did Last Summer, presents a unique twist on the slasher genre. Throughout the game, the mystery remains intriguing, providing ample thrills and challenges to tackle. The diverse cast of characters, ranging from endearing to controversial, ensures that there’s someone for every player to connect with. Gameplay consists primarily of making choices and quick-time events, offering an engaging alternative to traditional slasher movies with their often predictable storylines. So, if you’ve ever yearned for the excitement of a slasher without the familiar plot twists, then Until Dawn is definitely worth a try.

15) Yakuza 0

In the narrative of Yakuza 0, two engaging storylines intertwine, showcasing a tale that is quintessentially Japanese. The game offers various open-world activities such as karaoke singing, gambling, and clubbing, which can be enticing diversions. Yet, focusing on the main storyline presents an engrossing plot that doesn’t overstay its welcome. Unpredictable and never dull, Yakuza 0 boasts impressive worldbuilding where each character contributes to the overall narrative, making it feel as if you’re experiencing a Japanese version of Pulp Fiction.

2025-07-26 21:12