10 Most Cinematic Video Games You Need to Play

The line between video games and movies/TV gets smaller by the year.

As a devoted gamer, I can’t help but appreciate titles that offer an immersive experience where the visuals, star-studded cast, or limited player control create a captivating spectacle unfolding before my eyes. It’s these games that allow me to unwind and simply enjoy the show.

Today, we’ll explore some video games offering the most immersive cinematic experiences. The compilation will span various game categories, with a primary emphasis on titles that offer less player control, feature extensive cutscenes, or have controlled segments lasting for an extended period.

10. Horizon Zero Dawn

The Dawn of Something Special

Zero Dawn” stands out among games of the last generation because it often feels like you’re starring in a major Hollywood movie production during gameplay.

Although the overall performance is captivating, it’s the methodical, dramatically portrayed examination of the subterranean shelters that truly shines. These painstaking explorations gradually reveal the secrets of the world’s history.

This part seems almost surreal, like a science fiction film unfolding before your eyes. The exceptional voice performances and immersive settings make it hard not to be captivated, leaving you spellbound as the secrets of the game gradually unveil themselves.

Additionally, it adds value to have a genuine actor such as Lance Reddick contributing significantly to the game, resulting in an overall gaming experience that rivals some of the most cinema-like games produced.

9. Final Fantasy 16

The JRPG Game of Thrones

The highly anticipated return of the classic series, Final Fantasy 16, was indeed a significant event. One major factor contributing to its success was the decision to create an experience reminiscent of “Game of Thrones,” prompting the scriptwriters to watch the entire first season of the show prior to crafting the game’s narrative.

The study produces an abundance of extensive, detailed scenes and grand spectacles, during which you have minimal control as the events unfold spectacularly before your eyes.

In many sections, there’s a lot of prolonged dialogue with minimal opportunities for interaction, and during boss fights, your control is sometimes restricted to a certain degree.

Overall, it’s arguably the most cinematic experience of a series known for just that.

8. The Last of Us Part 2

The Highest Budget Zombie Movie

In 2020, The Last of Us: Part 2 stood out as an exceptionally immersive next-generation game, providing an intense escape from the real-world chaos by captivating players with its engaging visuals and narrative.

Initially, the graphics stood out extraordinarily well, with facial animations that comfortably surpassed the boundaries of the uncanny valley, offering what is arguably the most lifelike portrayals of virtual humans and, undeniably, zombies up until now.

The expressions on each character’s face perfectly mirrored the emotions conveyed through their dialogue, contributing significantly to the harrowing impact of the unfolding narrative.

Additionally, the game includes extended cinematic sequences, periods where you’re essentially strolling or traveling, appreciating the surroundings, and mostly serving as an observer as the game unfolds before your eyes.

Despite some disagreement about the overall quality of the product, it’s challenging to identify another game that delivers a cinematic experience on par with a high-budget, edge-of-your-seat Hollywood thriller like “The Last of Us: Part 2.”

7. The Order: 1886

Could’ve Been a Movie

Experience “The Order: 1886” offers something quite distinctive and extraordinary. While it’s fair to categorize it as a standard cover-shooter in terms of gameplay, the overall experience is akin to settling into a captivating movie with your popcorn at the ready.

This event was an extraordinary cinematic encounter, characterized by extended scenes, compulsory strolling intervals, and at times, it seemed more like watching a movie that you could interact with, particularly during the Werewolf battles.

Though many players found it problematic, I personally adored it. I purchased it approximately four years after its release for around $5, yet the overall gaming experience was exceptional. It felt like a rollercoaster ride from start to finish, with some of the best voice acting, character animations, and storytelling in any game I’ve ever played.

It’s truly unfortunate that we might not get a follow-up, given how full of potential this universe is for compelling narratives.

6. God of War

Boy, This is Cinema

Instead of opting for the sequel, I prefer the initial remake of God of War due to its peaceful and reflective atmosphere.

Right off the bat, the game’s strength is palpable. A simple stroll through the woods alongside Atreus, guiding him in hunting skills, already paints a vivid picture. The exceptional voiceovers and stunning visuals only serve to reinforce this narrative.

The game is filled with memorable, grandiose scenes as well; my personal favorite among these is the initial battle against Baldur.

In terms of graphics, the game was exceptional, almost unmatched on the PlayStation 4. The facial expressions felt incredibly lifelike, making it seem as if we could perceive the thoughts of each character.

Additionally, there were designated strolls through the area, intended for immersive exploration. These moments were purposefully left untouched to enhance the enchantment and aura around them. In fact, they seemed to heighten the sense of mystery.

5. Bioshock

The Immersion is Unparalleled

Each time you encounter an exceptional film, it’s likely that you recall the initial moment when you stepped into its unique universe. Do you remember the instant when you first beheld the authentic realm of The Matrix or the fortress of Helm’s Deep in The Lord of the Rings?

The first descent into Rapture during Bioshock left me with a similar sensation. It’s almost as if I was merely an observer, making my way downwards. As the journey unfolds, I find myself gazing upon a city so elaborate and breathtakingly beautiful that it appears almost paradisal.

As you’re assaulted by an over-the-top fanatic of Adam, all previous ideas scatter, and from then on, the descent into the murky depths becomes increasingly complex and distorted.

Each unexplored territory seems steeped in ambiance, and given the propensity of films for introducing unexpected plot developments, it’s hard to imagine anything rivaling the massive plot twist known as “would you kindly?” – a momentous surprise in literary history.

4. Red Dead Redemption 2

The Old West Runs Deep

Red Dead Redemption 2 is often hailed as one of the greatest video games ever created, yet its appeal didn’t resonate with all players. One reason for this disparity might be due to the descriptor “playable movie,” which some found misleading or confusing about the gameplay experience it offers.

The game is often taking control from you to unfold its narrative, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

The game frequently controls the flow of events rather than letting you decide, and that’s not always a negative aspect.

Indeed, that tale is exceptionally well-crafted, boasting some top-tier voice acting, character designs, and presentation that rivals anything you might find in a film.

For extended periods, you find yourself galloping along with your steed, enjoying nothing but the landscape and melodies for as long as 10 minutes at a time.

There’s a certain enchantment in observing how the surroundings respond to you, while the soothing melodies of reflection play softly as you ride through life’s adventures.

In every way, this is an incredible cinematic experience that is not to be missed.

3. Baldur’s Gate 3

A Script for the Ages

2023 saw Baldur’s Gate 3 crowned as Game of the Year, with a significant portion of the recognition going towards its exceptional script that drives its mechanics flawlessly.

Although the gameplay is engaging, you’ll find yourself mostly observing as the game unfolds rather than actively participating for extended periods.

Dialogues are extensive and complex, yet beautifully crafted. Each word chosen adds significance, ensuring a captivating reading experience throughout.

As a gamer, I can’t deny that I often find myself grinning ear-to-ear while navigating through dialogues. The banter between characters is just too entertaining not to enjoy!

In terms of gameplay, every place you explore feels visually captivating and immerses you completely with all the activity happening nearby.

In these virtual environments you explore, every tiny cottage or vibrant metropolis springs to action, immersing you so deeply that you truly belong, which is an experience rarely found in other games.

2. Star Wars: Jedi Survivor

The Force is Strong with This One

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but appreciate the legendary status of Star Wars in the realm of fiction. Naturally, it was only fitting that the video games derived from this universe would embody the same level of cinematic excellence as the movies themselves.

For quite some time, things remained different, but when Respawn took over, everything shifted – as seen in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor.

In contrast, though the original game was excellent, its narrative fell short. However, the follow-up significantly improves on this aspect with outstanding acting (impressive, indeed!) and visuals that rank among the best in-game graphics ever.

As a devoted Star Wars fan, I must say that the creators masterfully transformed the thrilling lightsaber duels from the prequel trilogy into an engaging gameplay experience. This led to breathtaking visual spectacles, such as my epic confrontation with Darth Vader, which truly underscored the formidable might of this iconic character.

The game is filled with numerous scenes that greatly aid in narrating an extraordinary tale, making it seem as if we’re witnessing an unproduced Star Wars film, fortunately, this captivating narrative now exists as a playable experience.

1. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

Gaming Reinvented

The game titled “Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice” stands alone in its genre, largely due to its emphasis on creating an immersive atmosphere and exceptional cinematic presentation.

Visually speaking, it took two blinks for me when this extraordinary game was released in 2017, and to this day, it remains one of the most visually appealing games I’ve ever had the pleasure of playing.

What captivates you about this game is its ambiance, its music, and the entire audio design.

The aspect that hooks you on this game is the mood, the tunes, and the overall sonic feel.

Experiencing “Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice” reshaped the concept of video games. In essence, it’s a blend of exploration (like a walkthrough), battles, and puzzles. However, when combined, it offers more depth than one might initially expect from its individual components.

As I delved into this game, I found myself awestruck by the fact that it managed to embody the essence of art within the realm of gaming. From the minimalist user interface to the stunningly realistic character animations, every aspect of it oozed cinematic panache.

In a second attempt, they aimed to duplicate their success, but fell slightly short. As far as I’m concerned, the first one remains unmatched in the series and a truly impressive, filmic accomplishment.

2025-02-15 18:40