Video games have come a long way from pixelated adventures with simple narratives. Today, they offer immersive worlds, complex characters, and stories that can tug at your heartstrings just as effectively as any movie or book.
If you’re looking for an emotional rollercoaster, a game that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between, then look no further.
5 Emotional Games That Will Make You Cry
Here is a list of 5 games that are guaranteed to make you cry:
The Last of Us (Part 1 & 2)
Genre: Action-adventure, Third-person shooter
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 (Part 2)
The Last of Us is a harrowing journey through a post-apocalyptic America ravaged by a zombie-like fungal infection. But at its core, it’s a story about survival and the enduring power of love.
The game follows Joel, a smuggler tasked with escorting a teenager named Ellie across the country. Their unlikely bond strengthens as they face both infected creatures and the brutal realities of the human world.
The Last of Us is lauded for its emotional storytelling and well-developed characters. You’ll laugh, cry, and feel a range of emotions as Joel and Ellie fight for survival and cling to the hope of a brighter future.
The sequel, The Last of Us Part II, takes things a step further, exploring themes of revenge, forgiveness, and the cycle of violence. Be prepared for a more mature and morally ambiguous narrative, but one that’s equally impactful.
Here’s what players are saying:
“The Last of Us is a masterpiece of storytelling. It’s a brutal world, but the characters and their bond make it an unforgettable journey.” – Michael K. (PlayStation Store Review)
“The Last of Us Part II is a bold and emotional sequel that pushes boundaries. It’s a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing.” – Olivia P. (IGN Review)
Red Dead Redemption 2
Genre: Action RPG
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a Western action-adventure game that tells the story of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw who is trying to find redemption for his past sins. The game is set in a vast and open world that is filled with detail and realism, and it features a cast of memorable characters who are all struggling to survive in the harsh American frontier.
As the world around them crumbles and the law closes in, Arthur grapples with his violent past and the choices he’s made. The game masterfully portrays the bond between the gang members, making their eventual downfall even more impactful.
RDR2 doesn’t shy away from portraying the harsh realities of the Wild West. You’ll witness violence, loss, and the struggle for survival. But it also celebrates the beauty of the natural world, the camaraderie of a close-knit group, and the fleeting moments of joy found in a harsh existence.
Here’s what players are saying:
“Red Dead Redemption 2 is a masterpiece of storytelling and world-building. It’s a beautiful and brutal journey that will stay with you long after you finish playing.” – Michael H. (IGN Review)
Nier: Automata
Genre: Action RPG
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Nier: Automata is a genre-bending action RPG that blends hack-and-slash combat with philosophical storytelling. You play as 2B, a combat android tasked with clearing a post-apocalyptic Earth overrun by machine lifeforms.
But Nier: Automata is more than just robots versus humanity. It’s a story about existence, purpose, and the nature of reality. The narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, with multiple endings that offer different perspectives on the game’s themes.
Be prepared for moments of intense action, philosophical musings, and surprising emotional gut punches. Nier: Automata will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about video games and storytelling.
Here’s what players are saying:
“Nier: Automata is a masterpiece of storytelling and game design. It’s a wild ride that will stay with you long after you finish playing.” – William T. (PC Gamer Review)
What Remains of Edith Finch
What Remains of Edith Finch is a narrative adventure game that is both beautiful and haunting, and it tells a story about grief, loss, and the importance of family. The game’s stories are all unique and heartbreaking, and they are sure to stay with you long after you finish playing.
Genre: Narrative Exploration
Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
What Remains of Edith Finch is a unique exploration game that delves into the Finch family’s history. You play as Edith, the last surviving member, returning to her childhood home after years away.
The house is a mausoleum of memories, each room dedicated to a deceased Finch who died young and under mysterious circumstances. As you explore, you uncover their stories through interactive vignettes, each reflecting their individual personalities and the tragic fates they met.
The game is a masterclass in storytelling, using various mechanics to bring each Finch’s story to life. Be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments of joy, wonder, and gut-wrenching sorrow.
Here’s what players are saying:
“What Remains of Edith Finch isn’t just a game; it’s an experience. It’s beautiful, bizarre, and heartbreakingly honest about life, death, and what it means to be a family.” – Alex R. (Metacritic Review)
Life is Strange
Genre: Narrative Adventure
Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
Life is Strange is a choice-driven episodic adventure game that tells the story of Max Caulfield, a high school photography student who discovers she can rewind time. This newfound ability throws Max’s world into chaos as she grapples with the consequences of altering the past.
The game excels in its relatable characters and emotional storytelling. You’ll build friendships, face difficult choices, and ultimately learn about the importance of cherishing the present. The first season of Life is Strange sparked a devoted fanbase, and the sequel, Life is Strange: True Colors, continues the tradition of emotional storytelling.
True Colors focuses on Alex Chen, a young woman with the ability to experience other people’s emotions. As Alex investigates the mysterious death of her brother, she navigates complex relationships and confronts the darkness within the seemingly idyllic town of Haven Springs.
Both games offer unique stories and characters, but share a common theme: the power of connection and the choices we make. Be prepared for moments of laughter, heartbreak, and everything in between.
Here’s what players are saying:
“Life is Strange is an unforgettable journey that will stay with you long after you finish playing.” – David C. (Steam Review)
“Life is Strange: True Colors is a worthy successor that captures the emotional depth of the original.” – Sarah H. (Metacritic Review)
Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons
Genre: Adventure, Puzzle-Platformer
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons is a unique and emotional puzzle-platformer game that tells the story of two brothers on a perilous journey to save their dying father. You control both brothers simultaneously, using their unique abilities to solve puzzles and navigate treacherous environments.
The game’s beauty lies in its minimalist storytelling. There’s no dialogue, relying solely on visuals and music to convey the emotional depth of the narrative. Witnessing the unwavering bond between the brothers, the desperation of their mission, and the sacrifices they make for each other will undoubtedly tug at your heartstrings.
Here’s what players are saying:
“Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons is a short but unforgettable experience that explores the power of brotherhood.” – Sarah K. (Shacknews Review)
Why do these games make us cry?
There are a few reasons why these games are so effective at making us cry. First, they all tell stories that are emotionally resonant. They deal with themes such as grief, loss, love, and sacrifice, which are all things that we can all relate to.
Second, these games all feature well-developed characters that we care about. We invest ourselves in their stories and we want them to succeed. When they go through something difficult, we feel it too.
Finally, these games all use powerful visuals and music to enhance the emotional impact of their stories. They create a believable world that we can immerse ourselves in, and they use music to create a sense of atmosphere and emotion.
Conclusion
This concludes our list of emotional games guaranteed to make you cry (or at least feel something!). We’ve delved into various genres, explored hidden gems, and revisited childhood memories through powerful narratives.
Remember, video games are more than just entertainment. They can be catalysts for emotional exploration, prompting us to reflect on our own lives and the human experience. So next time you’re looking for a game that goes beyond blasting aliens or conquering virtual worlds, consider these titles for a journey that will touch your heart and stay with you long after the credits roll.
Here are some additional tips for maximizing your emotional experience:
- Play with headphones: A good pair of headphones can immerse you further in the game’s world, amplifying the impact of the music and sound design.
- Invest your time: These games often unfold slowly, allowing you to connect with the characters and their struggles. Don’t rush through the story; savor the journey.
- Embrace the feels: Don’t be afraid to cry, laugh, or feel a range of emotions. That’s the beauty of these games – they evoke genuine human responses.
So, grab a controller, settle in, and get ready to embark on an emotional adventure. You might just discover a new appreciation for the power of storytelling in video games.
Happy gaming (and maybe some happy tears)!
Also Read This: 13 Tips You Can Use To Improve Your Gaming Skills
Q&A Section
Q: What are some other games that might make me cry?
A: There are many other games that have the potential to make players cry. Here are a few more examples:
1. To the Moon
2. Undertale
3. Journey
4. Gris
5. That Dragon, Cancer
6. The Walking Dead
7. Telltale’s The Wolf Among Us
8. Life is Strange: Before the Storm
9. Firewatch
10. Gone Home
11. Dear Esther
12. What Happened to Edith Finch
13. The Vanishing of Ethan Carter
Q: Why do I cry when I play games?
A: There are a few reasons why people might cry when they play games. First, games can be very immersive, and they can create a strong emotional connection between the player and the characters in the game. Second, games can deal with complex and emotional themes that can resonate with players on a personal level. Finally, games can use music and visuals to create a sense of atmosphere and emotion that can move players to tears.
Q: Is it okay to cry when I play games?
A: Absolutely! Crying is a natural human emotion, and there is no shame in feeling it. In fact, crying can be a healthy way to process difficult emotions and release stress. So don’t be afraid to let the tears flow when you’re playing a game that moves you.
Q: How can I avoid crying when I play games?
A: If you find that you’re crying too much when you play games, there are a few things you can do to try to avoid it. First, you can try to choose games that don’t deal with emotional themes. Second, you can try to take breaks from playing games if you feel yourself getting too invested in the story. Finally, you can try to talk to someone about how you’re feeling if you find that you’re crying frequently.
Q: What should I do if I cry when I play games?
A: If you cry when you play games, there is no need to be embarrassed. It is a perfectly normal reaction to emotionally resonant stories. If you find yourself crying, don’t be afraid to take a break from the game and process your emotions. You can also talk to someone about how you’re feeling, such as a friend, family member, or therapist.
