The Best Story-Driven Games You Can Play on Epic Games Store

23 May 2025

Story-driven games are like those unforgettable books or movies that stick with you long after they’re over. They put you in the driver’s seat of a compelling narrative, giving you the power to make choices, feel emotions, and immerse yourself in richly crafted worlds. If you’re a sucker for gripping tales, relatable characters, and jaw-dropping twists, then you're in luck. The Epic Games Store has a treasure trove of titles that will quench your thirst for storytelling. So buckle up—because we're diving into the absolute best story-driven games you can snag on Epic Games Store right now.

Why Story-Driven Games Are So Addictive

Before we dive into the games, let’s address the elephant in the room—why are story-driven titles so captivating? Well, they’re basically digital novels or blockbuster movies where you get to be the hero (or the villain, no judgment here). Unlike mindless shooters or basic puzzle games, these titles draw you in emotionally, challenging you to think and, most importantly, feel. It's the kind of immersive experience where you don't just play a game—you live it. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good story with unexpected twists?

1. Red Dead Redemption 2

Developer: Rockstar Games

Let’s kick things off with a juggernaut. You’ve probably heard of it—or lived under a rock if you haven't. "Red Dead Redemption 2" isn’t just a game; it’s a masterpiece that blends stunning visuals with an emotionally charged narrative. You step into the boots of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw trying to navigate the dying days of the Wild West.

What makes this game so special is its attention to detail. Every conversation, every side quest, every decision you make feels like it matters. The story is a gut-punch, addressing themes of loyalty, morality, and redemption. By the time you’re done, Arthur won’t just feel like a protagonist; he’ll feel like an old friend.

2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Developer: CD Projekt Red

Alright, this one’s a no-brainer—it’s practically a requirement for story-driven game fans. "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" puts you in the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter trying to find his missing ward, Ciri. But don’t be fooled—this isn’t just some monster-slaying simulator. The game’s branching storylines and morally complex choices will have you debating every decision long after your controller is down.

The world of "The Witcher" feels alive, from the bustling townsfolk to the eerie creatures lurking in the woods. And the dialogue? Top-tier. You’ll find yourself laughing, crying, and sitting slack-jawed as the story unfolds.

3. Detroit: Become Human

Developer: Quantic Dream

If you’ve ever wondered what it means to be human, "Detroit: Become Human" has the answer—and it’ll probably make you question everything. This sci-fi narrative adventure places you in the shoes of three androids, each wrestling with moral dilemmas and societal injustices in a futuristic Detroit.

What’s unique here is how much your choices matter. Every decision branches the story in a different direction, meaning no two playthroughs are the same. By the end, you’ll sweat over every choice you’ve made, wondering if you could’ve saved that one character or prevented a catastrophe. It’s storytelling at its finest, and it’ll keep you talking about it for weeks.

4. Life Is Strange Series

Developer: Dontnod Entertainment

Imagine being able to rewind time to fix your mistakes. Sounds great, right? Well… maybe not. The "Life Is Strange" series is all about choices and consequences, with a heavy dose of emotional storytelling thrown into the mix. The first game follows Max Caulfield, a teenager with newfound time-bending powers, as she navigates friendships, love, and a looming natural disaster.

What sets this series apart is how personal and relatable it feels. It tackles real-world issues like mental health, identity, and grief, all while packing in some of the most heartfelt moments you’ll ever experience in a game. Keep tissues handy—you’re going to need them.

5. Bioshock Infinite

Developer: Irrational Games

“Bring us the girl, wipe away the debt.” If that cryptic sentence intrigues you, then you’re in for a wild ride. "Bioshock Infinite" takes you to the floating city of Columbia, where you play as Booker DeWitt, a man sent to rescue a mysterious woman named Elizabeth. But trust me, this isn’t your average rescue mission.

The story of "Bioshock Infinite" is a rollercoaster of twists and turns, exploring themes like free will, societal corruption, and quantum physics. And the ending? Oh, boy. It’s the kind of mind-blowing conclusion that’ll have you Googling theories for hours.

6. Control

Developer: Remedy Entertainment

Ever wandered into a government building and found out it’s a gateway to another dimension? No? Well, that’s probably for the best. "Control" plops you into the role of Jesse Faden, a young woman searching for her missing brother. What ensues is a trippy, surreal journey through the Federal Bureau of Control, a shadowy organization dealing with paranormal artifacts.

The storytelling in "Control" is layered and mysterious, blending psychological horror with supernatural intrigue. If you enjoy games that make you question reality, this one’s a must-play.

7. Alan Wake

Developer: Remedy Entertainment

If "Control" didn’t give you enough of a narrative fix, Remedy Entertainment’s other gem, "Alan Wake," will scratch that itch. Think of it as a Stephen King novel brought to life. You play as Alan Wake, a writer stuck in a nightmarish version of his own book—where shadows are out to get him, and every page is a clue.

The story is gripping and eerie, pulling you deeper into its psychological thriller vibe. By the time the credits roll, you’ll both want—and fear—a sequel. (Don’t worry; the sequel’s coming soon!)

8. Outer Wilds

Developer: Mobius Digital

What if you had just 22 minutes to save the universe—and then you were stuck in a time loop? That’s the premise of "Outer Wilds," a game that’s as much about exploration as it is about the existential dread of your impending doom. You play as a space explorer unraveling the mysteries of a long-extinct civilization.

The storytelling in "Outer Wilds" is unconventional but no less brilliant. It delivers its narrative through exploration and discovery, making you feel like an intergalactic detective piecing together a cosmic puzzle. It’s beautiful, thought-provoking, and unlike anything else you’ve played.

9. Disco Elysium

Developer: ZA/UM

How about a detective RPG where you can fail at literally everything yet still uncover the truth? That’s "Disco Elysium" for you. This dialogue-heavy game puts you in the role of a washed-up detective with amnesia trying to solve a murder in a gritty, broken city.

The writing in "Disco Elysium" is phenomenal—like, award-winning phenomenal. It’s darkly humorous, deeply philosophical, and ridiculously engaging. Every choice you make shapes your character, and the sheer depth of the narrative will leave you in awe.

10. A Plague Tale: Innocence

Developer: Asobo Studio

Rats. Lots of rats. "A Plague Tale: Innocence" is a grim tale set during the Black Death in medieval France. You follow Amicia and her younger brother Hugo as they try to survive not only the plague but also the Inquisition hunting them down for reasons you’ll uncover along the way.

What really hits home in "A Plague Tale" is the sibling bond. The story tugs at your heartstrings, balancing moments of hope with overwhelming darkness. And yes, the rats are everywhere. Be ready for an emotional journey.

What Makes These Games Special?

These story-driven games aren’t just about flashy graphics or action-packed gameplay—they’re about the journey, the characters, and the emotions they evoke. They stick with you, living rent-free in your mind long after you've finished them. If you love a good story, these titles will remind you why games are one of the most powerful storytelling mediums out there.

So, grab your mouse, keyboard, or controller and dive into these unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for a sci-fi thriller, a heartfelt drama, or a psychological mind-bender, the Epic Games Store has you covered.