Recently, I’ve been pondering over the fact that some PC games plunge you into the action right from the start, keeping you gripped without any let-up. Conversely, others might require an hour or so to set up before they unveil a captivating cinematic experience and then abruptly present the title screen, leaving your jaw agape.
I’ve had firsthand experience with both methods and found them captivating. Therefore, I’ve chosen to compile a list of seven standout introductions that have left an impression on me over time. You might find your preferred one among these.
ATTENTION: The following content offers information about the early stages of a game, revealing certain plot points within approximately the first two hours. Caution is advised to avoid potential spoilers for those who have not yet experienced these parts of the game.
Final Fantasy XVI
A select number of video games have captivated me even before reaching the title screen, but Final Fantasy XVI stands out uniquely. This role-playing game begins with a leisurely pace, introducing the political tensions and personal connections within its universe. However, it soon explodes into an emotionally intense and visually spectacular opening sequence that I’ve rarely encountered in other games.
During the initial hour, the story unfolds their intricate bond, focusing on the vulnerable younger sibling capable of transforming into a divine phoenix-like entity. His elder brother, often misunderstood due to lacking the same extraordinary gift, plays a crucial role as a protector in their unique relationship.
In this narrative, there’s an unexpected sequence of events involving deception, intense physical conflicts, and fierce combats. These escalate dramatically, culminating in a passionate climax that envelops the main character in feelings of guilt and a desire for retribution. If you haven’t experienced this opening yet – whether through playing the game or watching it – I strongly suggest giving it a try.
Fallout 4
While I could delve into details about each game in the Fallout series due to its exceptional blend of 1950s optimism and a desolate post-nuclear landscape, it’s worth noting that Fallout 4 stands out with a particularly captivating opening sequence.
Moments before the nuclear explosions, you and your partner hastily grab your infant and rush to seek refuge in an underground shelter. Despite the apparent safety, tragedy strikes as you remain confined within the vault pod, witnessing a stranger enter, murder your partner, and steal your baby.
Ultimately, you exit the pod and awkwardly step from the vault, yearning to discover what befell your son amidst your struggle to endure a radioactive wilderness. This potent setup effectively conveys your compelling desire to investigate.
Marvel’s Spider-Man series
The Insomniac-created Spider-Man video games are tailored towards an audience who are familiar with Peter Parker’s backstory and are eager to dive right into the web-slinging adventure without any delay.
As a dedicated fan, I can effortlessly discuss the trio of games, but to drive my point home succinctly, let me share an evocative snapshot from the start of the first game: Leaping without much ado, Peter leaps out of his window, donning his iconic suit.
Within the initial 20 minutes, you engage in a fight with Fisk and his henchmen, which offers a clear insight into Peter’s intricate juggling act between his work, personal life, and vigilante duties. During the melee, you receive phone calls from NYPD Captain Watanabe warning about dangerous adversaries downtown, are scolded by your boss for being late to work, and arrange plans with Aunt May, all while continuing the fight.
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
Despite numerous mechanics and features that contributed to Skyrim’s massive success, its compelling introduction is one of the key factors captivating gamers.
In just a few short moments, you discover that your fate is being led towards execution. At the same time, you grasp the complexities of the global political unrest. As the executioner lifts his axe, unexpectedly, a dragon descends upon a neighboring tower and unleashes flames from above.
Right off the bat, you’re plunged straight into the heart of the adventure and need to figure out how to flee from the town. Along the way, you’ll gather essential equipment and engage in combat with adversaries.
In this start, the flow seamlessly integrates essential elements such as mechanisms, characters, and decision-making processes. It presents these aspects in a manner that feels genuine, allowing you ample room to explore and apply your newfound knowledge freely.
God of War (2018)
In the God of War series, the fourth edition marked a significant shift in its overall mood, which was introduced seamlessly through an exceptional prologue spanning the initial 40 minutes. This introductory segment successfully blended elements of melancholy, enigma, and violence.
Moments following the construction of Kratos and his son’s funeral pyre for the deceased mother, an unidentified Norse deity unexpectedly materializes at their threshold, uttering menacing warnings.
What ensues is a chaotic brawl, displaying the devastating power of two belligerent deities. They plow through buildings, exchange massive tree trunks as weapons, and viciously shatter the ground with their blows.
By using more common terms and simplifying the sentence structure, I aimed to create a version that is easier for readers to understand while maintaining the original meaning.
Following a near brush with danger, Kratos vanquishes the unknown traveler, reconnects with his son Atreus, and concludes this spot is no longer secure. This initial event stirs adrenaline and leaves one feeling cautious about the environment they are venturing into.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Previously, I mentioned that the intro of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 boasts one of the most elegantly melancholic game openings I have encountered.
In a rather quick span, it becomes clear that annually, a colossal sea figure called the Paintress decreases the number on her monument by one, following which individuals of a specific age vanish in a puff of smoke.
Via a beautiful cinematic sequence, you bear witness as the main character bids farewell to a friend who is being eliminated. Overwhelmed by both sorrow and hope, the protagonist embarks on a journey to prevent this recurring incident from taking place.
Intriguing monstrosities, a formidably strong adversary, and the enigma shrouding the Painteress draw you deeper into this realm.
BioShock
In a captivating fashion, BioShock begins with an air of dreamlike mystery and swiftly immerses players into a shadowy realm they can’t help but wish to uncover further.
As you battle through the flames of a crashed plane, you unexpectedly spot a towering structure emerging from the sea.
Upon reaching the building’s interior, you step into a submersible vessel that guides you deep beneath the ocean to the underwater metropolis of Rapture, portrayed in an onboard film as a haven for artistic minds, envisioned as a utopia.
Upon venturing into the submerged edifice, I can’t help but bear witness to a horrific spectacle: a hapless individual being mercilessly disfigured by a grotesque entity.
From where I stand, the tense beginning ignites an urge within me to delve deeper and find a means of breaking free from this alleged paradise.
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 you go, seven games featuring incredibly captivating opening acts that will make it difficult for you to stop playing them.
BioShock stands out as an especially memorable game due to its ability to generate intrigue and wonder within just a few short minutes. On the other hand, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 captivates players with one of the most somber and artistic introductions that leaves you yearning for more.
Feel free to share any games you believe should have been included in the list but were overlooked. Please do so in the comment section below!
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2025-08-18 13:41