Adventure games, broadly defined, encompass any title where puzzle-solving and exploration drive the narrative. This means many RPGs, slashers, platformers, and others can fall under this umbrella. This list highlights games where adventure is the core mechanic, focusing on world exploration and compelling storytelling.
For games in other genres, check out our selections of:
**Survival | Horror | Simulators | Shooters | Platformer**
Table of Content ---
Kenshi
Metascore: 75
Download: Steam
Release Date: December 6, 2018
Developer: Lo-Fi Games
Forget fiery hellscapes; the true inferno is Kenshi's unforgiving world. Begin as a lone traveler, scavenging for survival in desolate deserts and harsh landscapes. Kidnapped by slavers, your journey unfolds through choices: obey, escape, forge alliances, or trust no one. Hundreds of hours of gameplay await, filled with exploration and challenging survival.
Syberia
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 1, 2002
Developer: Microids
Lawyer Kate Walker's European and Siberian journey to settle an automaton factory case is a visual masterpiece. Benoît Sokal's artistry shines through in the stunning European cityscapes and the vast Siberian snowfields, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The distinction between automatons and robots is a key element.
Valiant Hearts: The Great War
Metascore: 77
Download: Steam
Release Date: June 25, 2014
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Experience the horrors and intertwined fates of characters during World War I. Puzzle-solving and exploration are central, immersing you in the tragic events of the war. While the puzzles aren't overly difficult, they effectively convey the realities of WWI.
Stray
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release Date: July 19, 2022
Developer: BlueTwelve Studio
Experience a technologically advanced world from a unique perspective—as a stray cat. Explore alleys and city streets, using your feline instincts to navigate and solve puzzles. Interact with robotic inhabitants in this unusual adventure.
A Plague Tale: Innocence
Metascore: 81
Download: Steam
Release Date: May 14, 2019
Developer: Asobo Studio
Medieval France serves as the backdrop for Amicia and Hugo's desperate flight from the Inquisition and hordes of plague-ridden rats. The game's atmosphere—gloomy landscapes, realistic infected models, and historical detail—creates a powerful sense of hopelessness and survival.
Pentiment
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 15, 2022
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Step into the Renaissance era and unravel a web of intrigue, political conflict, and personal tragedy. Your choices shape history as you interact with memorable characters and solve mysteries hidden within the world. The unique illuminated manuscript-style graphics are instantly recognizable.
Tomb Raider
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 5, 2013
Developer: Crystal Dynamics, Eidos-Montréal, Feral Interactive (Mac), Nixxes
This reboot of the legendary series reimagines Lara Croft, delivering a cinematic experience. Explore ancient ruins filled with puzzles and traps, combining action, puzzle-solving, and stealth gameplay. Lara's internal struggles add depth to the adventure.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Metascore: 87
Download: Steam
Release Date: December 9, 2024
Developer: MachineGames
A thrilling adventure for fans of Indiana Jones, offering complex optional puzzles and creative combat using environmental objects. Stealth is often a viable option, adding strategic depth.
Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy
Metascore: 78
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 26, 2021
Developer: Eidos-Montreal
A humorous space adventure featuring the Guardians of the Galaxy. Command your team in combat, experiencing a strong narrative and enjoyable character interactions. This 25-hour experience prioritizes camaraderie and storytelling.
The Wolf Among Us
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 11, 2013
Developer: Telltale
Based on the Fables comic, this interactive adventure places fairy tale characters in the modern world. Play as Bigby Wolf, a detective investigating crimes and uncovering secrets in a city brimming with hidden identities and betrayals.
BioShock Infinite
Metascore: 94
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Developer: Irrational Games, Virtual Programming (Linux)
A first-person shooter with a profound narrative, exploring themes of utopia, dystopia, and moral conflict in the flying city of Columbia. Unravel mysteries and confront your destiny in a visually stunning and philosophically rich world.
The Walking Dead
Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Developer: Telltale Games
Experience a gripping zombie apocalypse narrative focusing on a group of survivors. Make difficult choices with lasting consequences, influencing relationships and survival. The cinematic presentation and strong characters create a powerful emotional journey.
Life is Strange
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: January 30, 2015
Developer: DONTNOD Entertainment, Feral Interactive (Mac, Linux)
Max Caulfield's ability to rewind time is central to this story of friendship, loss, and self-discovery. Navigate moral dilemmas and unexpected twists, exploring themes of identity and belonging. The stylized graphics and soundtrack enhance the emotional impact.
Firewatch
Metascore: 81
Download: Steam
Release Date: February 9, 2016
Developer: Campo Santo
As a forest ranger, Henry's solitary existence is disrupted by unsettling events. The game's measured pace, beautiful landscapes, and diegetic interface create a sense of immersion in nature and introspection. Communication with Delilah via radio provides a vital connection.
Control
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 27, 2019
Developer: Remedy Entertainment
Jesse Faden's search for her brother leads her to a supernatural facility where reality bends. Utilize telekinetic abilities in unique combat encounters, experiencing a blend of shooting and object manipulation in a surreal setting.
Death Stranding: Director's Cut
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 24, 2021
Developer: Kojima Productions
Hideo Kojima's post-apocalyptic adventure focuses on reconnecting humanity after a global catastrophe. Deliver cargo, connect settlements, and rebuild civilization while experiencing a powerful emotional journey. Detailed movement mechanics and level design enhance the gameplay.
Detroit: Become Human
Metascore: 80
Download: Steam
Release Date: May 25, 2018
Developer: Quantic Dream
This interactive drama explores the nature of humanity and artificial intelligence through the intertwined fates of three androids. Your choices determine the outcome of the conflict between humans and androids, raising questions about free will and moral responsibility.
Marvel’s Spider-Man
Metascore: 87
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 7, 2018
Developer: Insomniac Games, Nixxes Software
Swing through a vibrant open-world New York City as Spider-Man. Experience thrilling combat, impressive graphics, and a compelling narrative. The high-quality voice acting perfectly captures the character's personality.
Yakuza 0
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: August 1, 2018
Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Explore the brutal world of the Japanese mafia in the late 1980s. Follow the story of a legendary character, experiencing violent confrontations, dramatic twists, and humorous moments. A variety of side activities adds depth to the experience.
To the Moon
Metascore: 81
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 1, 2011
Developer: Freebird Games
Journey through a dying man's memories to fulfill his final wish. This emotional adventure balances drama and comedy, evoking both laughter and tears. The minimal gameplay focuses on the poignant story.
It Takes Two
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 26, 2021
Developer: Hazelight Studios
A cooperative adventure with a captivating story, unique gameplay, and stunning visuals. Shrunk to toy size, you and a partner must work together to solve puzzles and overcome challenges. This game will test and potentially strengthen your relationship.
Black Myth: Wukong
Metascore: 81
Download: Steam
Release Date: August 20, 2024
Developer: Game Science
Inspired by Chinese mythology and "Journey to the West," this action game features the Monkey King on an epic journey. Face numerous challenging but varied bosses, offering a satisfying combat experience.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 21, 2019
Developer: FromSoftware, Inc.
A challenging action game set in feudal Japan, featuring a rhythmic parrying system and aggressive combat. Utilize prosthetics to overcome obstacles and enemies. The ability to resurrect adds strategic depth.
Journey
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release Date: June 11, 2020
Developer: thatgamecompany
A meditative adventure through stunning landscapes, told through visuals, music, and environmental interaction. The lack of verbal narration encourages personal reflection and interpretation.
Brothers – A Tale of Two Sons
Metascore: 90
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 3, 2013
Developer: Starbreeze Studios AB
Control two brothers simultaneously as they embark on a quest to save their father. The unique control mechanics require coordination and strategic thinking to solve puzzles. The emotional story is both heartwarming and melancholic.
The Stanley Parable
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 17, 2013
Developer: Galactic Cafe
A meta-commentary on video game narratives, challenging expectations and breaking the fourth wall. Explore an office space filled with absurd and unexpected twists, prompting reflection on choice and control.
Outer Wilds
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: June 18, 2020
Developer: Mobius Digital
Explore a solar system within a time loop, uncovering mysteries and secrets on each planet. The cyclical nature of the game encourages contemplation of fate and the impact of actions.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End
Metascore: 93
Download: PS Store
Release Date: May 10, 2016
Developer: Naughty Dog
Nathan Drake's final adventure features diverse locations, from snow-capped mountains to jungles. Simple puzzles provide respite between action sequences, enhancing the cinematic experience.
God of War
Metascore: 93
Download: Steam
Release Date: January 14, 2022
Developer: Santa Monica Studio, Jetpack Interactive
Kratos' journey through Norse mythology explores themes of family and redemption. The gameplay is a benchmark for action games, with Atreus serving as a valuable combat companion.
The Last of Us
Metascore: 95
Download: Steam
Release Date: June 14, 2013
Developer: Naughty Dog LLC, Iron Galaxy Studios
A post-apocalyptic masterpiece where a smuggler must deliver a living cargo—key to stopping a fungal epidemic. Stealth combat and resource management create a tense and engaging experience.
Video games offer unparalleled immersion, allowing players to explore fictional worlds, interact with environments, and make impactful choices. The games above exemplify this immersive experience.
