"30 Best Adventure Games Ranked"

In general, almost any game that requires solving puzzles and exploring locations to progress through the storyline can be considered an adventure. This broad definition means that many RPGs, slashers, platformers, and games from other genres can also be classified as adventures.

We've curated a list of top games where adventure is the core element—projects that focus on world exploration or storytelling. We also recommend checking out our selections of games by other genres:

Survival, Horror, Simulators, Shooters, Platformers

Table of Content ---

• 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

Imagine a world where hell isn't just a fiery abyss but a vast, unforgiving landscape. In Kenshi, you're thrust into such a realm, where endless deserts and rocky terrains set the stage for survival. As a lone traveler, you'll search for sustenance and shelter, only to be captured by slave traders. The choice is yours: submit to their will or plot your escape. With hundreds of hours of exploration and countless stories to uncover, Kenshi offers a rich tapestry of challenges and adventures.

Syberia

Image: pl.riotpixels.com

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

Embark on a journey with Kate Walker, a talented lawyer tasked with finalizing a case involving an old automaton factory. Syberia stands out with its stunning visual execution, from the charming European cities to the vast, snowy expanses of Siberia. Benoît Sokal's meticulously crafted world immerses you in an unforgettable adventure.

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 weaves a poignant narrative around several characters whose lives intersect amidst the chaos of war. The game's puzzles, while not overly challenging, deeply engage you with the tragic events, offering a profound understanding of the war's realities.

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 lets you experience the grace, curiosity, and resourcefulness of a feline as you explore dark alleys and city streets, solving puzzles along the way.

A Plague Tale: Innocence

Image: store.focus-entmt.com

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 atmosphere is gripping, with its gloomy landscapes, realistic infected models, and a story that delves into the emotional depths of survival and despair.

Pentiment

Image: news.xbox.com

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

Immerse yourself in the Renaissance with Pentiment, where you're entangled in a web of intrigues, political conflicts, and personal tragedies. Your decisions shape the course of history as you interact with vibrant characters and unravel mysteries hidden within the game's beautifully crafted world.

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 Lara Croft, battling external threats and her own fears. The game's cinematic quality and immersive art design draw you into ancient ruins filled with puzzles and deadly traps, blending action, puzzle-solving, and stealth seamlessly.

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 a thrilling adventure inspired by the iconic archaeologist. With complex puzzles and dynamic combat, you can use the environment to your advantage, blending into crowds or avoiding enemies altogether.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy

Image: news.xbox.com

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

Experience a 25-hour cinematic journey with Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy. As Star-Lord, lead your team through space, issuing commands and fostering friendships. The game's humor and engaging dialogue make it a delightful adventure.

The Wolf Among Us

Image: store.epicgames.com

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

In The Wolf Among Us, you play as Bigby Wolf, a detective in a world where fairy tale characters live among humans. Investigate crimes and navigate a city full of secrets and betrayals, with your choices shaping the story's outcome.

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 deep narrative set in the floating city of Columbia. As Booker DeWitt, you'll unravel the past and face moral dilemmas in a world where utopia turns to dystopia.

The Walking Dead

Image: microsoft.com

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

One of the best stories about a zombie apocalypse, The Walking Dead focuses on a group of survivors facing constant danger. Your decisions impact the characters' lives and relationships, delivering a rollercoaster of emotions.

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. Navigate moral dilemmas and explore themes of friendship and loss, all set against a backdrop of stylized graphics and a soulful soundtrack.

Firewatch

Image: firewatchgame.com

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

In Firewatch, Henry becomes a forest ranger, only to be drawn into mysterious events. The game's colorful landscapes and measured pace create a unique sense of immersion, with radio dialogues with Delilah providing the only human connection.

Control

Image: wylsa.com

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

As Jesse Faden in Control, you seek your brother and uncover the mysteries of a supernatural facility. Use telekinetic abilities to engage in unique combat, throwing enemies and objects for a satisfying experience.

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 is Hideo Kojima's vision of restoring civilization post-catastrophe. Carry cargo across settlements, connecting people through the chiral network, with detailed movement mechanics and excellent level design keeping the gameplay engaging.

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 exploring the nature of humanity and AI ethics. Your choices determine the fate of three androids in a world where technology and emotions clash, raising questions about free will and moral responsibility.

Marvel’s Spider-Man

Image: habr.com

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

Swing through an open-world New York City in Marvel’s Spider-Man. With top-notch action, stunning graphics, and a compelling narrative, you'll feel like the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, with exceptional voice acting enhancing the experience.

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. Experience a deep story filled with violent confrontations, dramatic twists, and humor, alongside a variety of side activities in Tokyo and Osaka.

To the Moon

Image: youtube.com

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

In To the Moon, two doctors help a dying grandfather fulfill his dream within his memories. The game balances drama and comedy, evoking a range of emotions as you journey through his life.

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 where a couple, transformed into toys, must work together to overcome puzzles and challenges. This game tests and strengthens relationships, offering a fun and engaging experience.

Black Myth: Wukong

Image: store.epicgames.com

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

Inspired by Chinese mythology, Black Myth: Wukong follows the Monkey King on an epic journey filled with mythical creatures. With numerous bosses and a moderate challenge, the game offers a rich and varied 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 challenging action game set in feudal Japan. As a shinobi, master a rhythmic parrying system and use prosthetics to overcome enemies, with the ability to resurrect once after death.

Journey

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

Journey is a meditative adventure through stunning landscapes, telling its story through visuals and music. Many find it helpful in overcoming life's challenges, offering relaxation and inspiration.

Brothers – A Tale of Two Sons

Image: nintendo.com

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

In Brothers – A Tale of Two Sons, control two brothers on a quest to save their father. The unique control mechanics require simultaneous management of both characters, creating a deeply emotional experience.

The Stanley Parable

Image: steamcommunity.com

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

The Stanley Parable is an ironic meta-commentary on video games and narrative systems. As Stanley, explore an office filled with absurd twists, reflecting on freedom, control, and predestination 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. Explore a solar system filled with mysteries, navigating a time-loop cycle that prompts contemplation of fate and the significance of actions.

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 is Nathan Drake's final adventure, emphasizing exploration across diverse locations. With realistic graphics and smooth animations, the game offers a cinematic experience with expertly directed cutscenes.

God of War

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

In the new God of War, Kratos navigates Norse mythology as a father seeking redemption. With themes of family and overcoming inner pain, the game sets a benchmark for action games, with Atreus as a full-fledged combat companion.

The Last of Us

Image: store.steampowered.com

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

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, The Last of Us follows a smuggler tasked with delivering a key to stopping a fungal zombie epidemic. With stealth combat and limited resources, the game delivers a tense and emotional experience.

Many forms of media allow us to immerse ourselves in fictional worlds, but only video games give us the chance to explore them on our own. Here, you can be the character, interact with the environment, and make decisions that impact the plot’s development. In the titles mentioned above, this experience is especially prominent.