Top 30 Adventure Games Revealed

In general, many games that involve solving puzzles and exploring various locations to advance through a storyline are classified as adventures. This broad category includes not only traditional adventure games but also RPGs, slashers, platformers, and games from other genres that incorporate these elements.

We've put together a selection of top games where adventure is the central theme, focusing on those that emphasize world exploration or storytelling. For those interested in other genres, we also recommend exploring our lists of:

Survival, Horror, Simulators, Shooters, Platformers

Table of Contents

• Kenshi
• Syberia
• Valiant Hearts: The Great War
• Stray
• A Plague Tale: Innocence
• Pentiment
• Tomb Raider
• Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
• Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy
• The Wolf Among Us
• BioShock Infinite
• The Walking Dead
• Life is Strange
• Firewatch
• Control
• Death Stranding: Director's Cut
• Detroit: Become Human
• Marvel’s Spider-Man
• Yakuza 0
• To the Moon
• It Takes Two
• Black Myth: Wukong
• Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
• Journey
• Brothers – A Tale of Two Sons
• The Stanley Parable
• Outer Wilds
• Uncharted 4: A Thief's End
• God of War
• The Last of Us

Kenshi

Image: steamcommunity.com

Metascore: 75
Download: Steam
Release Date: December 6, 2018
Developer: Lo-Fi Games

Kenshi presents a vision of hell not as an underworld filled with fire and demons, but as a harsh, desolate world where survival is a constant battle. In this open-world RPG, you control a lone traveler navigating endless deserts and treacherous landscapes. Faced with slave traders, you must decide whether to submit to their demands or attempt an escape. Kenshi offers hundreds of hours of exploration and storytelling, allowing you to forge your path through a world teeming with danger and opportunity.

Syberia

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Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 1, 2002
Developer: Microids

Embark on a journey with Kate Walker, a talented lawyer, as she travels through Europe and Siberia to finalize a case involving an old automaton factory. Syberia stands out for its stunning visuals, showcasing beautifully crafted locations that range from European cities to the vast, snowy expanses of Siberia. The game's meticulous design by Benoît Sokal creates a captivating atmosphere, immersing players in a world where automatons, not robots, play a central role.

Valiant Hearts: The Great War

Image: steamcommunity.com

Metascore: 77
Download: Steam
Release Date: June 25, 2014
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier

Set during World War I, Valiant Hearts: The Great War follows the intertwined fates of several characters amidst the war's horrors. The game blends puzzle-solving and exploration, offering a poignant look at the realities of the conflict. Though the puzzles are not overly challenging, they effectively draw players into the narrative, providing a deep understanding of the period's tragic events.

Stray

Image: steamcommunity.com

Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release Date: July 19, 2022
Developer: BlueTwelve Studio

In Stray, you take control of a stray cat navigating a mysterious, technologically advanced world. This unique perspective offers a fresh take on gameplay, allowing you to experience the environment through the eyes of a curious and resourceful animal. As you explore alleys and dark city streets, you'll encounter robotic inhabitants and solve puzzles, leveraging the cat's natural instincts to overcome challenges.

A Plague Tale: Innocence

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Metascore: 81
Download: Steam
Release Date: May 14, 2019
Developer: Asobo Studio

Set in medieval France, A Plague Tale: Innocence follows siblings Amicia and Hugo as they evade the Inquisition and swarms of rats. The game's atmospheric setting, with its gloomy landscapes and realistic depictions of the plague's impact, creates a sense of hopelessness and survival. Players will navigate a world filled with violence and disease, making it a gripping narrative adventure.

Pentiment

Image: news.xbox.com

Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 15, 2022
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment

Pentiment transports players to the Renaissance, weaving a tale of intrigue, political conflict, and personal tragedy. As you navigate this historical setting, your decisions influence the story's outcome, allowing you to interact with a vibrant cast of characters and solve mysteries. The game's unique visual style, reminiscent of illuminated manuscripts and woodcut prints, sets it apart from other titles.

Tomb Raider

Image: steamcommunity.com

Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 5, 2013
Developer: Crystal Dynamics, Eidos-Montréal, Feral Interactive (Mac), Nixxes

The reboot of the Tomb Raider series introduces a new take on Lara Croft, emphasizing her journey of survival and self-discovery. The game's cinematic quality and immersive art direction draw players into Lara's world as she battles external threats and her own fears. Exploration of ancient ruins, puzzle-solving, and action-packed sequences make this a quintessential adventure experience.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

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Metascore: 87
Download: Steam
Release Date: December 9, 2024
Developer: MachineGames

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle offers an exhilarating adventure inspired by the iconic archaeologist's films. The game features complex puzzles and dynamic combat mechanics, allowing players to use environmental objects as weapons. With its blend of thrilling expeditions and ancient mysteries, it's a must-play for fans of the series.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy

Image: news.xbox.com

Metascore: 78
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 26, 2021
Developer: Eidos-Montreal

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy delivers a cinematic space adventure filled with humor and engaging dialogue. As Star-Lord, you lead a team including Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, issuing commands during combat to utilize their unique abilities. This game focuses on the development of friendships and offers a thrilling narrative experience.

The Wolf Among Us

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Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 11, 2013
Developer: Telltale

The Wolf Among Us is an interactive adventure set in a world where fairy tale characters live among humans. Playing as Bigby Wolf, a detective tasked with solving crimes, you navigate a city filled with secrets and betrayals. The game's compelling narrative and moral choices have made it a fan favorite, with a sequel in development despite past challenges.

BioShock Infinite

Image: habr.com

Metascore: 94
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Developer: Irrational Games, Virtual Programming (Linux)

BioShock Infinite is a first-person shooter with a rich narrative set in the floating city of Columbia. As Booker DeWitt, you unravel the city's mysteries, confronting moral dilemmas and unexpected plot twists. The game's unique visual style and setting make it a memorable and thought-provoking experience.

The Walking Dead

Image: microsoft.com

Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Developer: Telltale Games

The Walking Dead offers one of the most compelling narratives in a zombie apocalypse setting. As you guide a group of survivors through constant danger, your decisions shape the characters' fates and relationships. The game's cinematic presentation, excellent voice acting, and emotional depth create an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Life is Strange

Image: steamcommunity.com

Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: January 30, 2015
Developer: DONTNOD Entertainment, Feral Interactive (Mac, Linux)

Life is Strange follows Max Caulfield, a student with the power to rewind time. The game explores themes of friendship, loss, and self-discovery through a series of moral dilemmas and narrative twists. Its stylized graphics and soulful soundtrack enhance the emotional impact of its story.

Firewatch

Image: firewatchgame.com

Metascore: 81
Download: Steam
Release Date: February 9, 2016
Developer: Campo Santo

In Firewatch, you play as Henry, a forest ranger whose solitude is disrupted by mysterious events. The game's beautiful landscapes and measured pace create a deep sense of immersion. Through radio dialogues with Delilah, you uncover the reasons behind Henry's presence in the wilderness, prompting reflection on personal choices and isolation.

Control

Image: wylsa.com

Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 27, 2019
Developer: Remedy Entertainment

Control follows Jesse Faden as she searches for her brother in a supernatural facility where reality shifts unpredictably. Jesse's telekinetic abilities offer a unique combat experience, allowing players to manipulate enemies and objects. The game's intriguing narrative and innovative gameplay make it a standout adventure.

Death Stranding: Director's Cut

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Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 24, 2021
Developer: Kojima Productions

Death Stranding: Director's Cut, crafted by Hideo Kojima, focuses on rebuilding civilization after a global catastrophe. The gameplay involves transporting cargo to reconnect humanity, with detailed movement mechanics and excellent level design keeping the experience engaging. The game's emotional depth and cinematic presentation create a compelling narrative.

Detroit: Become Human

Image: imdb.com

Metascore: 80
Download: Steam
Release Date: May 25, 2018
Developer: Quantic Dream

Detroit: Become Human is an interactive drama that explores the nature of humanity and artificial intelligence. As you navigate the intertwined lives of three androids, your choices shape the outcome of their struggle for freedom. The game raises profound questions about morality, free will, and the future of technology.

Marvel’s Spider-Man

Image: habr.com

Metascore: 87
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 7, 2018
Developer: Insomniac Games, Nixxes Software

Marvel’s Spider-Man lets players swing through a vibrant, open-world New York City. With fluid web-slinging and dynamic combat, the game captures the essence of the iconic superhero. Its strong narrative, top-notch graphics, and excellent voice acting make it a must-play for fans.

Yakuza 0

Image: steamcommunity.com

Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: August 1, 2018
Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio

Yakuza 0 delves into the brutal world of the Japanese mafia in the late 1980s, focusing on the origin story of a legendary character. The game blends a deep narrative with diverse side activities, including arcade mini-games and combat competitions, set against the backdrop of Tokyo and Osaka.

To the Moon

Image: youtube.com

Metascore: 81
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 1, 2011
Developer: Freebird Games

To the Moon follows two doctors as they help a dying man fulfill his lifelong dream within his memories. The game strikes a balance between drama and comedy, evoking a range of emotions as you navigate the protagonist's life. Its minimal gameplay focuses on advancing the story, making it a poignant and reflective experience.

It Takes Two

Image: wylsa.com

Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 26, 2021
Developer: Hazelight Studios

It Takes Two is a cooperative adventure that challenges players to work together as a couple transformed into toys. The game's engaging story, original gameplay, and stunning visuals create a fun and rewarding experience. It tests and strengthens relationships, making it a unique and enjoyable adventure.

Black Myth: Wukong

Image: store.epicgames.com

Metascore: 81
Download: Steam
Release Date: August 20, 2024
Developer: Game Science

Black Myth: Wukong draws inspiration from Chinese mythology and the legend of the Monkey King. Set in the world of "Journey to the West," the game follows a hero with supernatural abilities on an epic journey. With numerous bosses and a focus on variety, it offers a challenging yet accessible experience.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

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Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 21, 2019
Developer: FromSoftware, Inc.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a demanding action game set in feudal Japan. As a shinobi, you engage in intense combat using a rhythmic parrying system. The game's aggressive style and resurrection mechanic offer a unique challenge, while situational prosthetics enhance strategic gameplay.

Journey

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Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release Date: June 11, 2020
Developer: thatgamecompany

Journey is a meditative adventure set in a breathtaking world. Without verbal narration, the game tells its story through visuals, music, and environmental interaction. Its serene landscapes and inspiring journey help players relax and reflect, making it a profoundly moving experience.

Brothers – A Tale of Two Sons

Image: nintendo.com

Metascore: 90
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 3, 2013
Developer: Starbreeze Studios AB

Brothers – A Tale of Two Sons follows two brothers on a quest to save their father. The game's unique control mechanic requires simultaneous control of both characters, adding depth to puzzle-solving and exploration. Its emotional narrative and melancholic atmosphere make it a touching and memorable adventure.

The Stanley Parable

Image: steamcommunity.com

Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 17, 2013
Developer: Galactic Cafe

The Stanley Parable is a meta-commentary on video games and narrative systems. As Stanley, an office worker, you explore an environment filled with absurd and unexpected plot twists. The game's witty humor and fourth-wall-breaking moments offer a thought-provoking look at freedom and control in gaming.

Outer Wilds

Image: news.xbox.com

Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: June 18, 2020
Developer: Mobius Digital

Outer Wilds is best experienced with minimal prior knowledge. The game focuses on exploring a mysterious solar system, with each planet holding its own secrets and stories. Its time-loop mechanic prompts contemplation on fate and the impact of actions, making it a deeply engaging adventure.

Uncharted 4: A Thief's End

Image: steamcommunity.com

Metascore: 93
Download: PS Store
Release Date: May 10, 2016
Developer: Naughty Dog

Uncharted 4: A Thief's End marks Nathan Drake's final adventure, emphasizing exploration across diverse locations. The game's realistic graphics and cinematic cutscenes enhance its immersive experience, while puzzles provide a welcome break between action sequences.

God of War

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Metascore: 93
Download: Steam
Release Date: January 14, 2022
Developer: Santa Monica Studio, Jetpack Interactive

God of War reimagines Kratos within Norse mythology, focusing on his journey as a father seeking redemption. The game blends action with themes of family and inner struggle, setting a new standard for the genre. Atreus, Kratos's son, plays a crucial role in both combat and narrative.

The Last of Us

Image: store.steampowered.com

Metascore: 95
Download: Steam
Release Date: June 14, 2013
Developer: Naughty Dog LLC, Iron Galaxy Studios

The Last of Us is set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by fungal zombies. As a smuggler tasked with delivering a key to stopping the epidemic, you navigate a tense and emotional journey. The game's stealth mechanics and limited resources create a survival horror-like experience, though its focus remains on its compelling narrative.

Video games offer a unique way to immerse ourselves in fictional worlds, allowing us to explore, interact, and influence the story. The titles listed above highlight the power of adventure games to provide engaging and memorable experiences.