The Most Popular Story-based Game, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the story-based game you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 24, 2024 07:41
In the bustling world of gaming, story-based games hold a special place in the hearts of many. They offer more than just entertainment; they weave complex narratives that transform gameplay into an immersive experience. Such games create passionate discussions and fervent followings, making it essential to gauge which titles are resonating the most with audiences.
By participating in the ranking of these story-rich games, players contribute their opinions, helping to highlight the games that offer the most compelling narratives and engaging experiences. Voting also ensures that your favorites get the recognition they deserve, influencing new players about which tales are worth their time and which adventures they might next embark on.
What Is the Most Popular Story-based Game?
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159votes
The Last of Us
Naughty DogThis game is widely regarded as one of the best story-based games of all time, with its emotional narrative and well-developed characters. It has won numerous awards and has a Metacritic score of 95/100.The Last of Us is a highly acclaimed action-adventure survival horror game, originally released on the PlayStation 3. It takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, where players control Joel, a smuggler tasked with escorting a young girl named Ellie across a dangerous United States. The game focuses on their emotional bond and the challenging encounters with infected humans and hostile survivors along the journey.- Platform: PlayStation 3
- Genre: Action-adventure, survival horror
- Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
- Release Date: June 14, 2013
- ESRB Rating: Mature
The Last of Us in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular PS3 game
- Position 6 of 10 in Most romantic game
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238votes
Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar GamesThis game tells the story of Arthur Morgan, a member of a gang of outlaws in the American Old West. Its compelling storyline and immersive open-world gameplay have made it a fan favorite. It has a Metacritic score of 97/100.Red Dead Redemption 2 is an action-adventure video game set in an open world environment. It takes place in 1899, during the decline of the Wild West, and follows the story of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw and member of the Van der Linde gang.- Genre: Action-adventure
- Release Date: October 26, 2018
- Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
- Game Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
- Engine: Rockstar Advanced Game Engine (RAGE)
Red Dead Redemption 2 in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most entertaining video games
- Position 4 of 10 in Most advanced game
- Position 4 of 10 in Most anticipated game of all time
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular paid game
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular AAA game
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323votes
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
CD Projekt RedThis game is based on the novels by Andrzej Sapkowski and follows the story of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a medieval fantasy world. Its nonlinear storytelling and morally ambiguous characters make it a standout among RPGs. It has a Metacritic score of 93/100.The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an action role-playing game set in an open world. It is the third installment in The Witcher series, based on the fantasy novels by Andrzej Sapkowski. The game was developed by CD Projekt Red and published by CD Projekt. Players take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter known as a Witcher, as he embarks on a quest to find his adoptive daughter while dealing with the political turmoil engulfing the land. The game is known for its vast open world, immersive storytelling, and complex moral choices.- Platforms: PlayStation 4
- Genre: Action role-playing
- Mode: Single-player
- Release Date: May 19, 2015
- Game Engine: REDengine 3
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful PC game
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular RPG game
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418votes
Life is Strange
Dontnod EntertainmentThis episodic adventure game follows the story of Maxine Caulfield, a high school student who discovers the ability to rewind time. Its emotional narrative and relatable characters have made it a cult classic. It has a Metacritic score of 85/100.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 7 of 10 in Most popular adventure game
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519votesThis first-person shooter takes place in the underwater city of Rapture, where the player must unravel the mystery of what went wrong. Its dystopian setting and philosophical themes make it a unique addition to the genre. It has a Metacritic score of 96/100.BioShock is a highly acclaimed first-person shooter video game released in 2007. Set in an underwater city called Rapture, the game combines elements of action, adventure, and horror genres to deliver a captivating story. The player assumes the role of a lone survivor exploring Rapture, uncovering its mysterious past, and facing off against mutated creatures and deranged inhabitants. With its immersive narrative, rich atmosphere, and moral choices, BioShock has become a beloved title in the gaming industry.
- Release Date: August 21, 2007
- Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, macOS, Linux
- Game Engine: Unreal Engine 2.5
- Genre: First-person shooter, Action, Adventure, Horror
- Modes: Single-player
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616votes
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End
Naughty DogThis game is the fourth installment in the Uncharted series, following treasure hunter Nathan Drake on his final adventure. Its cinematic storytelling and thrilling action sequences have made it a favorite among gamers. It has a Metacritic score of 93/100.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 2 of 10 in Most popular adventure game
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79votes
Mass Effect 2
BioWareThis sci-fi RPG follows Commander Shepard as she recruits a team to take on a powerful alien threat. Its branching storyline and player choice have made it a standout among RPGs. It has a Metacritic score of 94/100.Mass Effect 2 is a science fiction action role-playing game developed by BioWare. It is the second installment in the Mass Effect series, and it takes place in the 22nd century where players assume the role of Commander Shepard, an elite human soldier who must assemble a diverse team to save the galaxy from a dangerous alien race known as the Collectors.- Genre: Action role-playing
- Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
- Release Date: January 26, 2010
- Publisher: Electronic Arts
- Single-Player: Yes
Mass Effect 2 in other rankings- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular RPG game
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81votes
The Walking Dead
Frank DarabontThis episodic adventure game is based on the comic book series of the same name and follows the story of Lee Everett and a young girl named Clementine as they navigate a world overrun by zombies. Its emotional storytelling and tough decisions have made it a fan favorite. It has a Metacritic score of 86/100.The Walking Dead is a popular TV show that revolves around a post-apocalyptic world infested with zombies, also known as 'walkers'. It follows a group of survivors as they navigate through dangerous situations, form alliances, and try to rebuild society. The show primarily focuses on character development and explores themes like morality, survival instincts, and the resilience of humanity.- Genre: Drama, Horror
- Original Network: AMC
- First Episode Air Date: October 31, 2010
- Last Episode Air Date: Ongoing
- Number of Seasons: 10
The Walking Dead in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Telltale game
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular supernatural show
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular show in America
- Position 4 of 10 in Most overrated TV show of all time
- Position 7 of 10 in Most successful comic book
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular comic book of all time
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98votes
Horizon Zero Dawn
Guerilla GamesThis open-world RPG takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where humans live alongside robotic creatures. Its compelling story and strong female protagonist have made it a standout in the genre. It has a Metacritic score of 89/100.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 6 of 10 in Most popular adventure game
- Position 8 of 10 in Most beautiful PC game
- Position 9 of 10 in Most advanced game
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108votes
Detroit: Become Human
Quantic DreamThis game explores the themes of artificial intelligence and humanity through the stories of three androids. Its branching storyline and player choice make for a unique and engaging experience. It has a Metacritic score of 78/100.Detroit: Become Human is a visually stunning PC game that depicts a richly detailed and immersive futuristic world. Set in the year 2038, the game explores the lives of androids living in a near-future Detroit. Developed by Quantic Dream, this interactive cinematic experience offers players a profound narrative with branching storylines that combine action, exploration, and decision-making. As players progress through the game, they navigate intricate narratives and face moral dilemmas that shape the outcome of the story. With its breathtaking graphics, realistic character models, and stunning environments, Detroit: Become Human stands out as one of the most beautiful PC games available.- Developer: Quantic Dream
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4
- Release Date: May 25, 2018
- Genre: Action-adventure, Interactive Drama
Detroit: Become Human in other rankings- Position 5 of 10 in Most beautiful PC game
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Ranking factors for popular story-based game
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Plot and StorylineThe strength and depth of the plot and storyline can have a significant impact on the popularity of a story-based game.
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CharactersLike the plot, the characters in a game can deeply impact its popularity, especially if players are able to connect and engage emotionally with them.
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GameplayThe gameplay mechanics should complement the story and not feel disconnected from it.
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Graphics and Sound DesignA visually and audibly stunning game can enhance the overall experience and contribute to the popularity of the game.
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ReplayabilityA game that offers players the opportunity to play again and have a new experience will likely have better longevity and popularity.
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Critical AcclaimA game that receives high scores or positive critical reception is often well-regarded by players.
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Fan FollowingThe size and enthusiasm of the game's fanbase can also contribute to its overall popularity.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular story-based game. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or story-based game is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2146 views
- 198 votes
- 10 ranked items
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Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each story-based game once every 24 hours. The rank of each story-based game is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular story-based game
Story-based games have become increasingly popular in recent years, with players immersed in rich, interactive narratives that rival those found in books and movies. These games typically feature complex characters, intricate plotlines, and engaging gameplay mechanics that allow players to shape the story based on their decisions and actions. From epic fantasy adventures to gritty crime dramas, there is no shortage of options when it comes to choosing a story-based game to play. But which one reigns supreme as the most popular among gamers? Let's take a closer look at some of the top contenders and see if we can find an answer.
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