Storytelling has consistently held a crucial role in interactive entertainment. Regardless of whether it features a straightforward narrative or a multifaceted action-oriented plot, titles boasting compelling narratives tend to leave a lasting impression. While some games primarily market themselves based on their storyline, others achieve success through alternative means. Let’s explore a few instances of exceptional storytelling within the realm of interactive media and examine their distinctive approaches.

The Types of Storytelling

In this article we will look at the best examples of storytelling in games. There are video games that are built entirely on the example of a good book or film, The Last Of Us would be a good example here. It’s about the story of a father who has to take a girl to the other side of the US, the crux? It is the healing of humanity, which has been pushed into the abyss by a deadly virus, whoever didn’t die in the beginning became a zombie. Of course, the humans are also enemies of each other. Both characters have to go through all this while in personal conflict.

Then there is Undertale. This role-playing game is one of the most popular indie titles on the PC and has been consistently well received for its unique humour, variety of dialogue options and well-written character development.

Then there’s Bioshock Infinite – a first-person shooter set in 1912 and set in an alternate history where you explore a floating city in the sky called Columbia. You take on the role of Booker DeWitt, who must free Elizabeth from captivity. The game was well received by critics for its shocking twists and historical themes, which included racial tensions during the Industrial Revolution era in America.

All three games were remarkably good when it came to storytelling – but each had its own way of telling stories that set them apart from others in their genre (indie RPGs, FPSs).

The Importance of Storytelling in Games

In videogames, you are actively involved and live through the story of the characters. Whether it is a simple narrative or a more complex plot, games with a good story stick in your mind. There are many games where the narrative is the main selling point, but there are also many others that don’t need to rely on narrative to be successful. Let’s take a look at some examples of great stories in game development and what makes them different from the norm.

1. Final Fantasy VII

Final Fantasy VII is an example of how storytelling can make a game stand out from other games, even if the gameplay is the same in all titles. The entire game revolves around Cloud Strife’s journey to defeat Sephiroth and save the planet from destruction by the meteorite “Meteor”. The game’s developer, Square Enix, has done an excellent job with this game and since the release of the first part in 1997, over 11 million copies have been sold worldwide.

2. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain

Another example of successful storytelling is Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain by Konami. The developers have focused on making players feel like they are in control of Snake throughout the game, while also telling a cohesive story to keep players interested in playing through to the end. Although there were no voice-overs or cutscenes during the game, the story was still engaging without distracting players who wanted to focus solely on the game.

3. Bioshock

What sets Bioshock apart is its use of the first-person perspective. In most games you take on the role of a character and see yourself in the game in third person perspective, which usually means over your back or shoulders watching the character, but in Bioshock you take on the role of Jack in first person perspective as he explores Rapture for the first time. You’re thrown into unfamiliar territory after a plane crash and it’s up to you to figure out what’s going on. You must decide whether to fight or flee from enemies, explore new areas and make decisions that will affect your relationship with other characters throughout the game.

One of Irrational Games’ best-known games is more than just a shooting gallery (although there are plenty of weapons). The compelling story gives players an experience that can only really be felt when playing through the story-driven campaign mode. The developers have done an excellent job of building tension. They make players feel like they are living through Jack’s memories by getting to know him better through gameplay rather than exposition or cutscenes.

This game also stands out for trying something new: It has a multiplayer component that allows up to 16 players to play simultaneously. Some might think this detracts from the narrative aspect of the game, but it actually enhances it! It adds another dimension – players can work together to solve puzzles or defeat enemies while experiencing a whole new level of storytelling: sharing moments with each other as they explore Rapture together.

4. Uncharted 3

“Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception” is the third installment in Naughty Dog’s “Uncharted” series. The story revolves around Nathan Drake, an archaeologist and his turbulent life. The main goal in this part is his search for the lost city of Iram of the Pillars, also called Desert Atlantis. However, his childhood and early youth are also shown, so the player gets to know Nathan as a person with a backstory and can thus identify with him.

The game sticks to the traditional narrative style with cutscenes and dialogue. This may seem old-fashioned at first glance, but it works because it gives the story more depth.

The cut-scenes are of high quality, even surpassing those of a feature film, which enhances the player’s experience of the game. They help to create an emotional connection between the player and the story itself. They are also stylish in their own way; each sequence feels unique and makes it even more exciting for the player.

Honourable Mentions

  • The Stanley Parable: a game that intentionally breaks the fourth wall by allowing the player to make a decision and then watch what happens as a result.
  • Furthermore, for those looking for excitement outside of traditional games, Stay Casino games offer a unique experience and bonuses, and offer the player a storyline. It’s not very deep, but not every type of game needs a deep plot or storyline at all. In this case, take a look at pong or Tetris – both hits without a backstory.
  • Crusader Kings 2: A great strategy game where you take on the role of one of many nobles in medieval Europe. You can play your character over generations and watch the history of the dynasty unfold.
  • Life is Strange: An episodic game with a compelling story that revolves around time travel.

Conclusion

As you can observe, various forms of storytelling exist within interactive entertainment. However, the importance of a gripping narrative remains consistent, whether it unfolds continuously or through one-shots and cinematic sequences, contingent upon the gaming genre. Titles such as Tetris, Pong, or similar options operate entirely devoid of a storyline. In these instances, the objective is entirely distinct. Yet, if you seek an exhilarating experience, consider exploring one of the mentioned interactive titles; it’s an adventure you should undoubtedly undertake.