8 Best Story-Driven Video Game Franchises, Ranked
Story-driven video games have taken the gaming world by storm, offering players more than just gameplay, but deep, immersive narratives that tug at the heartstrings. From heart-wrenching character arc
Telltale's The Walking Dead
Notable Entries: The Walking Dead: Season One, The Walking Dead: The Final Season, The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series
Telltale Games skyrocketed to mainstream success with The Walking Dead series, thanks to its emotional storytelling and engaging characters, particularly Lee and Clementine. While the series faced ups and downs, The Final Season offered a touching conclusion to Clementine's journey, reminding players of the growth and struggles of its protagonists. Despite some behind-the-scenes turmoil, this franchise set a new standard for narrative-driven adventure games.
Uncharted
Notable Entries: Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, Uncharted 4: A Thief's End, Uncharted: The Lost Legacy
Uncharted quickly became synonymous with blockbuster action-adventure games, combining thrilling set pieces with memorable characters. Nathan Drake’s quest for treasures often took a backseat to the game's excellent dialogue and the deep emotional stakes explored in Uncharted 4, which focuses on the aging adventurer's struggle between family and his insatiable thirst for adventure. This franchise proves that thrilling action and heartwarming storytelling can coexist beautifully.
BioShock
Notable Entries: BioShock, BioShock Infinite
BioShock is known for its immersive environments and groundbreaking storytelling. The first game introduced players to the underwater city of Rapture, where dystopian themes and shocking twists made it a standout. The series continued to push narrative boundaries with BioShock Infinite, which explored multiverse concepts, leaving a lasting impact on the gaming world. Its unique blend of action, philosophy, and narrative depth makes it a must-play for any story-driven game fan.
The Last of Us
Notable Entries: The Last of Us Part 1, The Last of Us Part 2
The Last of Us is a heart-wrenching journey through a post-apocalyptic world. The bond between Joel and Ellie was so well-crafted that it became the emotional core of the series. The sequel, The Last of Us Part 2, though divisive, further deepened the narrative, exploring the consequences of revenge and the complexities of human nature. The franchise's emotional storytelling is so powerful it led to a successful TV adaptation.
Persona
Notable Entries: Persona 3 Reload, Persona 4 Golden, Persona 5 Royal
Combining life simulation with traditional RPG mechanics, Persona has earned its place as one of the most beloved JRPG franchises. The stories in Persona unfold slowly, building an emotional connection with the characters before revealing the larger conflicts at play. Players navigate the challenges of high school life while battling supernatural forces, making the stakes feel personal and deeply engaging. Each entry in the series has a unique story that resonates with players on an emotional level.
Yakuza/Like A Dragon
Notable Entries: Yakuza 0, Yakuza 5, Yakuza: Like A Dragon
The Yakuza franchise blends gritty, emotional crime stories with off-the-wall humor and side activities. The main narratives explore the brutal world of the Japanese underworld, while the side content offers a lighthearted, often absurd contrast. This duality makes Yakuza one of the most well-rounded story-driven franchises, where you can experience intense drama and laugh at the quirky side of the game's world.
Mass Effect
Notable Entries: Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2, Mass Effect 3
Commander Shepard's saga in Mass Effect is a masterclass in storytelling. Across three epic RPGs, players are thrust into an intergalactic battle against a mysterious alien force. The narrative depth, branching choices, and emotional stakes make Mass Effect one of the most memorable trilogies in gaming history. While Andromeda didn't quite live up to its predecessors, the original trilogy's impactful choices and rich lore remain unparalleled.
The Witcher
Notable Entries: The Witcher, The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Geralt of Rivia’s journey through The Witcher series is one of the finest examples of narrative-driven RPGs. The Witcher 3 in particular stands out as a masterpiece, with its deeply personal story, complex characters, and expansive world. CD Projekt Red's commitment to delivering emotionally charged stories in a high-fantasy world makes The Witcher series one of the most celebrated in modern gaming. With the upcoming The Witcher 4, fans can expect even more gripping narratives in this beloved franchise.
These franchises have set the bar for storytelling in video games, offering players immersive worlds, complex characters, and emotional depth that linger long after the game ends. Whether you're exploring dystopian cities, embarking on intergalactic adventures, or navigating the challenges of life, these games promise unforgettable stories that will keep you coming back for more.