As a researcher delving into gaming experiences, I’ve recently pondered over the immersive introductions some PC games provide, skipping the preamble and grabbing my attention from the get-go. Consequently, I’ve curated a list of seven captivating openings that left an indelible impression on me.
Wonder if your favorite intro made the cut.
As a game analyst, I’d like to issue a friendly heads-up: The following content may reveal certain aspects of a game’s narrative that unfold during the initial two or so hours of play, potentially containing early spoilers. Proceed with caution if you’re aiming to maintain a fresh experience!
Final Fantasy XVI
Not many games have captured my attention as effectively as Final Fantasy XVI did even before I saw the title screen. This role-playing game starts off relatively leisurely, introducing the political struggles and personal connections within its world, before suddenly exploding into one of the most intense and visually spectacular opening sequences I’ve ever experienced.
During the initial hour, you’ll discover the intricate bond shared by two siblings: one is a fragile younger brother with the unique talent to transform into a divine Phoenix, while the other is an older brother often disparaged for lacking the same extraordinary ability.
In this captivating narrative, there’s an unexpected act of treachery, intense violence, and battles that culminate in a heart-wrenching, emotionally charged climax. The protagonist is left grappling with feelings of guilt and the urge for retribution. If you haven’t experienced this opening sequence yet, either by playing the game or watching it, I strongly suggest you give it a try.
Fallout 4
I have the capacity to discuss every game in the Fallout series due to the skillful contrast between the 1950s idealism and a desolate nuclear wasteland, yet it’s worth noting that Fallout 4 stands out with its captivating opening scene.
Moments before the nuclear explosions, you and your partner hastily grab your infant and rush towards an underground shelter. Despite appearing secure, the safety of the vault pod is soon shattered when an intruder enters, slays your partner, and abducts your baby.
After exiting the pod, you stagger out of the vault with eagerness, curious to learn about your son’s fate amidst the harsh landscape of a post-nuclear world. The narrative sets off on an engaging note, establishing a compelling motive for you to delve deeper into the unknown.
Marvel’s Spider-Man series
Instead of diving straight into the adventures of a web-slinging hero familiar to many, the Insomniac-created Marvel’s Spider-Man games are crafted for an audience that is already acquainted with Spidey’s backstory and eagerly seeks to dive right into the thrilling acrobatic action.
Instead of discussing all three games at length, I’ll focus on illustrating the start of the first game to make my point clear. Without much introduction, Peter quickly puts on his suit and leaps out of his window.
In the initial 20 minutes, you engage in a fight with Fisk and his henchmen, which offers a clear glimpse into Peter’s complex mix of work, life, and vigilante responsibilities. As you’re dealing with these thugs, you receive calls from NYPD Captain Watanabe warning about the dangerous adversaries downtown, are reminded by your boss that you’re tardy for work, and discuss plans with Aunt May.
It’s the perfect example of a game that doesn’t mess around and just lets you jump in and enjoy it.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Skyrim is well-known for its numerous features that contributed to its massive success, including an engaging introduction to captivate gamers.
Quickly, you discover that you’re being led to your execution, and you sense the broader political turmoil engulfing the world. Just as your life is about to end with a beheading, a dragon swoops in from a nearby tower, unleashing flames.
Right from the start, you’ll be plunged into the thick of things and need to figure out a way to leave the town. Along the journey, you’ll gather essential equipment and clash with adversaries.
Here’s a more casual and straightforward rephrasing for you: The start is seamless, smoothly introducing you to the workings, creatures, and choices within this world, then giving you the freedom to explore with the knowledge you’ve gained.
God of War (2018)
In the fourth edition of the God of War series, the overall mood shifted dramatically. This transformation commenced right from the start, where an impactful opening scene combined elements of melancholy, enigma, and violence within approximately forty minutes.
Moments following Kratos and his son’s construction of a funeral pyre for Kratos’ deceased wife, an unidentified deity from the Norse pantheon unexpectedly emerged, making ominous declarations towards them.
Here’s what transpires next: A heated brawl ensues, displaying the devastating power of two combative deities who demolish buildings, exchange massive tree trunk blows, and shatter the earth with each heavy impact.
Following a narrowly-escaped confrontation, Kratos manages to subdue the unknown traveler, reconnects with Atreus, and concludes it’s best for them to leave this place as it seems dangerous. This initial event sets an exciting pace and leaves one feeling cautious about the environment they embarked upon.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Previously, I mentioned that the intro of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 features one of the most touching and melancholic game openings I’ve encountered.
Within a brief span, it becomes common knowledge that annually, a colossal figure named the Paintress situated beyond the sea decrements the number on her monument by one, which is often followed by individuals of a specific age vanishing in a puff of smoke.
In a stunning visual journey, you observe the protagonist bidding farewell as their companion disappears. Overwhelmed by sorrow yet clinging onto hope, the protagonist embarks on a mission to prevent this recurring occurrence.
Enormous, bizarre entities, a formidable adversary, and the enigma swirling around the Paintress, all serve to draw you deeper into this realm.
BioShock
BioShock begins with an eerie, dreamlike quality, promptly immersing players into a shrouded, enigmatic, and potentially perilous environment, piquing their curiosity and compelling them to delve deeper.
Amidst the inferno from a crashed plane, you’re battling to navigate through the flames, when suddenly, a enigmatic structure appears tall and majestic above the sea.
Once you’ve gained entry into the structure, you step inside a submersible which plunges deep beneath the ocean surface, revealing the submerged metropolis of Rapture, allegedly a paradise for artistic minds, as depicted by an in-vessel video.
Upon entering the underwater structure, the first sight that greets you is a disturbing scene where someone is being brutally attacked by a menacing figure.
Starting off, it’s a thrilling yet anxious beginning that sparks an intense curiosity and longing to discover and break free from what appears to be a perfect society.
Honorable mentions
Here are some other titles that narrowly didn’t make the list.
- Final Fantasy X
- Cyberpunk 2077
- Half-Life, Half-Life 2
- Dragon Age: Origins
- The Last of Us Part 1
A strong start makes a game hard to set down
Here they are, seven captivating games featuring intros so compelling, you might find it tough to tear yourself away!
As a devoted gamer, I must say that BioShock grabs my attention almost instantly due to its intriguing air of mystery and curiosity it generates. On the other hand, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 captivates me right from the start with its poignant and artistic introduction that draws me in deeply.
Feel free to share any games you believe should be included in our list by leaving a comment below!
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2025-08-13 18:16