The Most Popular Adventure Game, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the adventure game you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 6, 2024 06:28
Adventure games have always provided a unique blend of storytelling and problem-solving, captivating players for decades. Yet with so many options available, it can be a real challenge to pick which one to dive into next. Rankings help highlight those that have captivated the most people, pointing you towards experiences that many have found thrilling, immersive, and innovative.
By participating in these rankings, you contribute to a broader understanding of what makes an adventure game stand out. Your input is vital, ensuring that the best of the genre get the recognition they deserve. This space allows your preferences to shape what new or seasoned players might choose next, enriching the gaming community with shared experiences and discoveries.
What Is the Most Popular Adventure Game?
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133votesIt is one of the best-selling games of all time and has won numerous awards for its open-world exploration and puzzle-solving gameplay.The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an action-adventure game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch and Wii U consoles. It takes place in an open world setting and follows Link, the main protagonist, as he explores the kingdom of Hyrule.
- Release Date: March 3, 2017
- Genre: Action-adventure
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
- Modes: Single-player
- Playable Characters: Link
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most entertaining video games
- Position 2 of 10 in Most fun Nintendo Switch game
- Position 2 of 10 in Most fun game to 100% complete
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful game in the world
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231votes
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End
Naughty DogIt is considered one of the best adventure games of all time for its cinematic storytelling, engaging characters, and thrilling action sequences.Uncharted 4: A Thief's End is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It is the fourth installment in the popular Uncharted series, following the adventures of Nathan Drake, a treasure hunter and explorer. In this final chapter of the series, Nathan embarks on a journey across the globe, searching for fabled pirate treasure with his long-lost brother, Samuel Drake. The game features stunning visuals, immersive storytelling, and thrilling gameplay that combines exploration, puzzle-solving, platforming, and intense combat sequences.- Platform: PlayStation 4
- Genre: Action-adventure
- Release Date: May 10, 2016
- Single Player: Yes
- Multiplayer: Yes
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End in other rankings- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular story-based game
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321votes
Tomb Raider
Core DesignThis game is a classic adventure game that has been around for decades. It follows the story of Lara Croft, a treasure hunter who explores ancient tombs and solves puzzles to uncover hidden treasures.Tomb Raider is a popular adventure game that follows the thrilling exploits of Lara Croft, an archaeologist and treasure hunter. Players get to embark on perilous quests in exotic locations, solving puzzles, fighting enemies, and overcoming obstacles to uncover ancient artifacts and unravel mysterious secrets of the past.- Release Date: October 25, 1996
- Platforms: PlayStation, Sega Saturn, MS-DOS, and more
- Pioneering Example: Revolutionary for its time, introducing 3D graphics and nonlinear gameplay
- Protagonist: Lara Croft, a fearless and skilled archaeologist
- Gameplay: Combines exploration, platforming, and combat elements
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410votes
Assassin's Creed
UbisoftThis game series has been popular for its unique blend of action-adventure gameplay and historical fiction. The player takes on the role of an assassin in different time periods and locations throughout history.Assassin's Creed is an action-adventure stealth game set in various historical periods, allowing players to experience an epic battle between the secretive Assassins and the powerful Templar Order. The game combines open-world exploration, combat, and stealth mechanics, providing a rich storyline that intertwines both historical and fictional elements.- Release Date: November 13, 2007
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows
- Setting: Holy Land during the Third Crusade (12th century)
- Protagonist: Altair Ibn-La'Ahad
- Gameplay: Open-world exploration, parkour, stealth-based combat
Assassin's Creed in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Ubisoft game
- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular game franchise
- Position 10 of 10 in Most difficult Assassin's Creed game
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511votes
Bethesda Software · Public domainThe Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Bethesda Game StudiosThis game is an open-world adventure game that allows the player to explore a vast, immersive world filled with magic, dragons, and mythical creatures.The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an open-world action role-playing game set in the fictional world of Tamriel. It was developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. The game is the fifth installment in The Elder Scrolls series and was released in 2011. Players assume the role of the Dragonborn, a prophesied hero with the ability to use the power of Dragons. They embark on a quest to save the land of Skyrim from various threats, including ancient dragons and a civil war.- Genre: Action role-playing
- Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch
- Release Date: November 11, 2011
- Game Engine: Creation Engine
- Map Size: Approximately 14.4 square miles
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Elder Scrolls game
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Bethesda game
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular RPG game
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68votes
Horizon Zero Dawn
Guerilla GamesThis game is a post-apocalyptic adventure that follows the story of Aloy, a hunter in a world ruled by robotic creatures. It is praised for its engaging storyline and immersive world-building.Horizon Zero Dawn is an action role-playing game set in a post-apocalyptic world where players control a skilled hunter named Aloy. Developed by Guerilla Games and released in 2017, the game combines thrilling combat, a rich narrative, and stunning visuals to deliver an unforgettable gaming experience. As Aloy, players embark on a quest to unravel the mysteries of an ancient civilization and discover the truth behind the fall of human society. The game features a vast open-world environment filled with breathtaking landscapes and unique mechanized creatures known as 'machines.' With a combination of ranged weapons, stealth tactics, and strategic thinking, players must overcome these formidable foes and explore a world teeming with danger and wonder.- Genre: Action role-playing
- Platform: PlayStation 4
- Release Year: 2017
- Developer: Guerilla Games
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Horizon Zero Dawn in other rankings- Position 8 of 10 in Most beautiful PC game
- Position 9 of 10 in Most popular story-based game
- Position 9 of 10 in Most advanced game
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715votes
Life is Strange
Dontnod EntertainmentThis game is a narrative-driven adventure that follows the story of Max, a teenager who discovers she can rewind time. It is praised for its emotional storytelling and relatable characters.Life is Strange is an episodic graphic adventure game developed by Dontnod Entertainment and published by Square Enix. The game follows the story of Max Caulfield, a photography student who discovers she has the ability to rewind time. As Max navigates through her high school life in the fictional town of Arcadia Bay, she reconnects with her childhood friend Chloe Price and investigates the disappearance of a fellow student.- Genre: Adventure
- Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation, Xbox, macOS, iOS, Android
- Release Date: Episode 1: January 30, 2015
- Game Engine: Unreal Engine 3
- Number of Episodes: 5
Life is Strange in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most romantic game
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular story-based game
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86votesThis game is a first-person adventure that follows the story of a fire lookout in the Wyoming wilderness. It is praised for its beautiful visuals and engaging storytelling.Firewatch is a first-person mystery adventure game set in the Wyoming wilderness during the summer of 1989. Players take on the role of Henry, a fire lookout who is stationed in the Shoshone National Forest. As Henry, players explore the forest, interact with their supervisor Delilah via walkie-talkie, and unravel a mysterious plot that unfolds in the remote wilderness.
- Genre: Mystery, Adventure
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Release Date: February 9, 2016
- Gameplay: Single-player
- Graphics: Stylized, hand-painted visuals
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911votesThis game is a unique adventure game that focuses on exploration and emotional storytelling. The player takes on the role of a robed figure traveling through a mysterious world.Journey is an indie adventure game that takes players on a visually stunning and emotionally evocative journey through a mysterious desert landscape. With no dialogue or text, the game relies on the player's exploration and interaction with the environment and other players to tell its story. The game features breathtaking visuals, a mesmerizing soundtrack, and a unique multiplayer experience where players can encounter and collaborate with anonymous companions along the way.
- Platform: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows
- Genre: Adventure
- Mode: Single-player, online multiplayer
- Release Date: March 13, 2012 (PlayStation 3)
- Game Length: 2-3 hours
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1010votesThis game is a platformer adventure that follows the story of Ori, a spirit who must save the forest from a dark force. It is praised for its beautiful visuals and challenging gameplay.Ori and the Blind Forest is a critically acclaimed action-adventure platformer game that tells an emotional and visually stunning tale. Players embark on a heartfelt journey as they control Ori, a nimble forest spirit, on a quest to save the dying forest from darkness. The game is renowned for its breathtaking hand-painted visuals, mesmerizing soundtrack, and challenging gameplay.
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Action-adventure, Platformer, Metroidvania
- Release Date: March 11, 2015
- Modes: Single-player
- Game Engine: Unity
Ori and the Blind Forest in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Metroidvania
- Position 3 of 10 in Most beautiful game in the world
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular game made with Unity
- Position 6 of 10 in Most fun game to 100% complete
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Discussion
Ranking factors for popular adventure game
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GameplayConsider the game mechanics, controls, and level design. A good adventure game should provide challenging and engaging gameplay that keeps the player interested and entertained throughout the game.
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Story and SettingAdventure games usually have a strong narrative and a well-developed world. Look for a captivating, immersive story with memorable characters and a unique universe.
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Graphics and VisualsEven though graphics are not everything, a visually appealing game can enhance the player's experience. Consider the art style, animation, and overall visual design of the game.
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Sound and MusicA great soundtrack and sound design can significantly improve the overall atmosphere of an adventure game. High-quality voice acting can also add depth to the characters and the story.
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Difficulty and PacingA well-designed game should have a good balance of challenge and accessibility. Players should feel like they are making progress and overcoming obstacles while not getting too frustrated.
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ReplayabilityConsider the games that offer multiple endings, branching paths, or other features that encourage players to replay the game and explore all its content.
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InnovationHow has the game contributed to the adventure genre? Unique mechanics, storytelling methods, or other innovations can make a game stand out among its peers.
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Critical and Player ReceptionCheck professional reviews, player ratings, and overall public opinion. A highly rated game by both critics and players is usually a good indication that it delivers a satisfying experience.
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Awards and AccoladesLook for adventure games that have received awards or been recognized for their excellence in the gaming industry.
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Influence and LegacyConsider the game's overall impact on the adventure genre or the gaming industry in general – whether it has inspired other titles or set new standards for quality and innovation.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular adventure game. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or adventure is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1581 views
- 154 votes
- 10 ranked items
Movers & Shakers
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each adventure once every 24 hours. The rank of each adventure is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular adventure game
Adventure games have been a beloved genre in the gaming industry since the early 1980s. These interactive games allow players to embark on exciting journeys, solve intriguing puzzles, and immerse themselves in captivating storylines. From the classic point-and-click games to the more modern open-world adventures, there is something for everyone in the adventure game genre.
Over the years, adventure games have evolved and grown in popularity, with some of the most iconic titles becoming household names. From the mysterious worlds of Myst and Riven to the action-packed Uncharted and Tomb Raider franchises, adventure games continue to captivate gamers of all ages.
But with so many options available, which adventure game reigns supreme? At StrawPoll, we've asked thousands of gamers to weigh in on this question, and the results are in! Check out our list of the most popular adventure games to see if your favorite title made the cut.
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