In the realm of gaming, narratives often present a central dilemma faced by the protagonist; however, some titles delve deeper, centering their entire story around the life journey of the main character. These experiences are particularly impactful, often lingering in the minds of players long after they have completed the game.
Whether the protagonist ends up with a happy conclusion or not, the emotional connections formed during gameplay can make it challenging to bid farewell to a character you have accompanied for countless hours. If you’re on the hunt for games distinguished by compelling storytelling and strong character arcs, this list showcases some of the best that focus on the protagonist’s life journey and development.
Note: The list includes minor story spoilers for some games, but nothing that will significantly detract from your experience.
10. What Remains Of Edith Finch
Dark, Twisted, And Depressive
We begin with the shortest entry on this list—What Remains Of Edith Finch. In this two-hour experience, players inhabit the life of Edith Finch as she returns to her family’s ancestral home, a place steeped in memories and remembrances.
Throughout her journey, you will uncover the history of each family member and relive their final moments. This heart-wrenching yet stunning experience comes highly recommended anytime you find yourself with a couple of spare hours.
9. The Witcher 3
Life Is All About Hunting Monsters
For Geralt of Rivia, life revolves around hunting monsters for a living. However, The Witcher 3 expands upon this premise, revealing a deeper narrative as Geralt embarks on a quest to locate his lost love, Yennefer, in a war-ravaged world. As the story unfolds, his mission shifts to finding and protecting his adoptive daughter, Ciri.
While I cannot divulge too many details without spoiling the plot, Geralt’s journey transforms into a personal odyssey, testing his resolve as a father figure.The game’s expansions further enrich his character arc, challenging him to make decisions that conflict with his moral compass.
8. Kingdom Come: Deliverance
From The Son Of A Blacksmith To A Knight
In Kingdom Come: Deliverance, players follow Henry, a humble blacksmith’s son, whose life is irrevocably altered when his village is ravaged by King Sigismund’s Cuman mercenaries. As one of the few survivors, he is taken in by Sir Radzig Kobyla and begins rigorous training to become a knight, driven by a thirst for vengeance against those who destroyed his life.
This RPG boasts hyper-realistic mechanics that immerse players in a medieval world, allowing you to experience each facet of Henry’s life as your own.From KCD1 to KCD2, his journey continues, making the anticipation for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 3 palpable.
7. Final Fantasy 16
Come To Me, Ifrit!
Clive’s narrative in Final Fantasy 16 is fraught with tragedy, encompassing the occupation of his kingdom, the loss of comrades, and his violent branding at a young age. Throughout his tumultuous journey, players witness Clive’s evolution as he seeks to obliterate the mother crystals, granting Bearers the freedom to define their own fates.
Despite some criticism regarding its side quests, Clive’s gripping saga is highlighted by exhilarating boss fights against formidable foes, including the Eikon Dominants, ensuring players are thoroughly engaged throughout the experience.
6. The Walking Dead
Lee’s Journey Through A Zombie Apocalypse
In The Walking Dead, Lee’s story unfolds after a car crash propels him into the chaos of a zombie apocalypse. His primary mission becomes protecting young Clementine, whom he encounters during his struggles for survival.Playing as a father figure, Lee’s growth through an apocalyptic landscape creates a deeply emotional connection with the player.
As you guide Lee’s journey, you’ll share in his hardships while striving to shield Clementine, making his narrative one of the most unforgettable in gaming.
5. The Last Of Us Part 1
When Lost In Darkness, Look For The Light
After enduring a heart-wrenching prologue marked by the loss of his daughter, Joel adapts to life as a smuggler amidst a lawless, post-apocalyptic world. When tasked with escorting Ellie to the Fireflies, their bond evolves into a father-daughter relationship.As the layers of their respective life stories and traumas are peeled back, players are treated to one of the most profound storytelling experiences in gaming.
The Last of Us is essential for anyone seeking a narrative rich with emotional complexity and morally ambiguous characters, challenging the definition of heroism.
4. The Yakuza Series
Breaking The World
The Yakuza series, also known as Like A Dragon, chronicles the tumultuous life story of Kiryu Kazuma, exploring the lengths he goes to protect those he holds dear. Each installment reveals a new chapter in Kiryu’s life. Beginning with Yakuza 0, you will be drawn in by the game’s engaging combat and captivating narrative.
Spanning from Yakuza 0 to Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, you can witness Kiryu evolve from a naïve young man to a weary elder, seeking peace while grappling with his past.
3. Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection
May He Rest In Peace
The Ezio Collection represents a pinnacle in Ubisoft’s storytelling and is often regarded as the best in the Assassin’s Creed franchise. Ezio Auditore, a remarkably well-developed character, begins his journey as a child, growing into a charismatic young man engaging in daring escapades throughout Italy.
His carefree existence is shattered when he loses his family to a nefarious conspiracy, thrusting him into the world of assassins, following the legacy of his father. Over the course of Assassin’s Creed 2, Brotherhood, and Revelations, Ezio’s life story unfolds, showcasing one of the most compelling trilogies in video game history.
2. God Of War
But I Am Your Monster No Longer
The entire God Of War series embodies the life story of Kratos, chronicling his transformation from a ruthless warrior fuelled by vengeance to a devoted father aspiring for peace for his son. In the latest title, players witness Kratos grappling with the memories of his slain wife while forging a new path forward with Atreus.
This metamorphosis from a vengeful deity to a protective father is poignantly portrayed, making it one of the most powerful narratives to experience.
1. Red Dead Redemption 2
“Cruel, Cruel World, Must I Go On?”
When it comes to depicting a profound life story within a single game, Red Dead Redemption 2 stands unparalleled. The narrative centers on Arthur Morgan, a character you meet in his mid-thirties, revealing layers about his past and his growth throughout the game, which ultimately makes him one of the most intricately written figures in video games.
Witnessing Arthur’s reflection on his history and grappling with regrets as his outlaw life draws to a close epitomizes masterful storytelling.Throughout the game’s progression, Arthur transforms, leaving an indelible mark on players. It’s clear that Red Dead Redemption 2 rightfully deserves its top position on this list.
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