10 Best Story-Driven Games for PC & Console: Unforgettable Narratives

In recent years, story-driven games have evolved far beyond being mere backdrops for gameplay. Modern titles now deliver narratives on par with top-tier TV series and films: in-depth characters, moral dilemmas, emotional scenes, and themes that linger with players long after the credits roll. As a result, more and more gamers are searching for PC and console games with great stories, not just impressive graphics or high FPS.

Below, we've compiled the top 10 games with the best storylines from the past five years-projects remembered for their powerful narratives, immersive atmosphere, and masterful storytelling. While there are plenty of new releases worth checking out, here we focus on proven titles that are truly worth playing for their stories alone.

The Last of Us Part II

The highly anticipated sequel became one of the most talked-about narrative games of recent years. The Last of Us Part II delivers a dark and intense tale of revenge, the impact of violence, and the price of human choices. The game deliberately subverts player expectations, challenging you to see events from multiple perspectives.

The story isn't afraid to be uncomfortable or emotionally demanding. Characters evolve throughout the journey, and pivotal scenes evoke powerful reactions-ranging from empathy to outright rejection. This is the rare case where a game is discussed not for its gameplay, but for what it has to say and how it says it.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Although it launched slightly outside the five-year window, the influence of Red Dead Redemption 2 on modern narrative games is undeniable. Often hailed as the gold standard for storytelling in games, it stands out for its richly developed characters and slow-burning, deliberate plot progression.

Arthur Morgan's journey is a tragedy of loyalty, morality, and the unstoppable tide of change. The narrative unfolds not just through cutscenes, but in subtle details: conversations, random encounters, and world interactions. For these reasons, the game is frequently listed among the best for deep and emotional storytelling.

Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium is one of the most unconventional narrative RPGs in recent memory. Eschewing traditional action, the game focuses on dialogue, internal monologues, and the protagonist's psychology. You play as an amnesiac detective, piecing together not only a crime, but your own fractured identity.

The story is shaped by your dialogue choices, worldview, and even your character's ideology. Every decision affects how the world reacts to you and who you become by the end. That's why it's often named among the best games with a non-linear story, where the narrative is crafted by the player's choices rather than rigid scripts.

Cyberpunk 2077

Despite a rocky launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has evolved into one of the genre's strongest narrative experiences. The story of V and Johnny Silverhand explores themes of identity, free will, digital immortality, and the consequences of choice in a high-tech world.

The plot unfolds through dialogue, side quests, and personal storylines-many of which rival the main narrative in emotional impact. Multiple endings and diverse playstyles make this a top pick for those seeking story-driven games with meaningful choices and consequences, rather than a strictly linear plot.

God of War Ragnarök

God of War Ragnarök exemplifies how a blockbuster AAA title can blend spectacle with deep drama. The journey of Kratos and Atreus revolves around fatherhood, fate, and accepting inevitable change.

The story is presented with cinematic flair yet remains personal and heartfelt. Character interactions, the evolution of their relationships, and the gradual unveiling of the world make this one of the most unforgettable modern narrative games on both console and PC.

Baldur's Gate 3

Baldur's Gate 3 stands as a shining example of non-linear storytelling in contemporary RPGs. Here, the narrative is shaped not only by major decisions, but also by the smallest player actions, slowly weaving a unique journey.

The story deftly blends epic fantasy, companion dramas, and moral dilemmas. Every character has their own arc, which can develop-or end-depending on your choices. That's why the game is frequently celebrated as one of the best story-driven RPGs where your decisions truly matter.

A Plague Tale: Requiem

The sequel to Amicia and Hugo's tale builds on everything fans loved about the first game. A Plague Tale: Requiem doubles down on emotional storytelling, a haunting atmosphere, and the bonds between characters amid a brutal world.

The narrative gradually shifts from a survival story to a tragedy, with each decision becoming harder to make. The game's strength lies not in scale, but in deeply personal drama, earning it a regular place on lists of the most emotionally charged games.

Horizon Forbidden West

Horizon Forbidden West continues Aloy's journey, expanding the world and deepening its narrative core. The game explores responsibility, the legacies of the past, and the consequences of technological advancement, all while remaining accessible to a broad audience.

While renowned for its open world and visuals, it's the story arcs and character development that make this one of the standout narrative-driven games of recent years.

Alan Wake 2

Alan Wake 2 is one of the strongest narrative projects in recent years when it comes to delivery and atmosphere. Blending psychological thriller, horror, and detective elements, the game draws players into a layered and unsettling story.

The plot is constructed around parallel storylines, reality-distorting perspectives, and a persistent sense of uncertainty. The story unfolds slowly and deliberately, prompting players to piece together clues and connect the dots. For this, the game is often praised as one of the most cinematic and unique narrative experiences of the new generation.

Conclusion

Over the past five years, storytelling in games has taken a significant leap forward. Developers are moving beyond simple plots, offering narratives that tackle complex topics: moral choices, personal responsibility, loss, identity, and the consequences of your actions. These games make a lasting impression not because of graphics or mechanics, but thanks to the stories they tell.

If you're searching for story-driven games on PC or consoles, this list is a great starting point. For those wanting to dive even deeper, be sure to check out collections of the latest narrative releases and projects with non-linear storytelling, where every choice truly shapes the journey.