Best Games That Feel Like Documentaries, Ranked

Summary

Video games and documentaries merge seamlessly in games that offer unique storytelling experiences.
Both indie and AAA developers have successfully integrated the documentary style into their games.
Games like Outlast, Deadool, and P.T. immerse players in horror documentary-like experiences.

Video games and documentaries might appear to be two very distinct entities, like oil and water. But there are several games that masterfully adopt a chronicle format, seamlessly combining storytelling with game design. These games empower players to immerse themselves in an engaging narrative, offering a unique blend of entertainment. Interestingly, these types of games span various genres, demonstrating versatility rather than being limited to a single trick.

Many games with this type of style often trace their origins back to indie gaming; these developers are passionate about creating games that challenge conventional norms. Yet, some renowned AAA developers have also adopted this approach in their blockbuster titles, demonstrating the vast potential for innovative ideas within the video game industry.

8. Outlast

Creepy, Visceral, Atmospheric, & Disturbing

Outlast caters to gamers who thrive on immersive, tense, and unsettling documentary-style video games; it’s hard to find another game that creates such an eerie atmosphere. As the initial installment of the series, Outlast kept players on edge due to numerous threatening adversaries they couldn’t engage in combat with. The game is set in a dilapidated mental hospital that’s shrouded in darkness, forcing players to depend on a camcorder for navigation. However, the camcorder’s night vision function consumes batteries quickly, creating a continuous need for conservation and resource gathering.

Experience the heart-racing audio setup and strategic jump moments that make you live every moment in terror. In Outlast, there’s no holding back on the grisly scenes and violent encounters, while the first-person perspective intensifies the realistic, documentary-style atmosphere.

7. South Scrimshaw, Part One

Beautiful, Thought-Provoking, & Absolutely Tear-Jerking

Developer: Nathan O. Marsh
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux
Publisher: Nathan O. Marsh
Released: June 9, 2023

South Scrimshaw, Part One – An Immersive, Heartfelt Gaming Journey

In this first part of South Scrimshaw, players embark on a unique gaming adventure that resembles a moving documentary in style. The developers’ enthusiasm for the game shines through every aspect of it, and this passion is evident in the captivating visuals that seamlessly blend vibrant and muted art styles.

The game unfolds as a linear visual novel, taking players on an emotional journey centered around a genetically altered baby whale born from an egg. As the story progresses, players witness the growth cycle of the calf whale and its peculiar evolution while also unraveling the tragic backstory behind it.

In South Scimshaw, Part One, profound and emotional bonds are portrayed predominantly through action rather than dialogue. Most of the on-screen text is dedicated to describing these actions from the perspective of the bystanders observing a baby whale. The documentary format perfectly aligns with this game’s unique style.

6. Return Of The Obra Dinn

Intuitive, Minimalist Game Design Makes The Players Work For The Solution

The Game “Return of the Obra Dinn” offers an engaging experience for those seeking greater interactivity and control to delve into a game’s documentary-like elements. It’s a captivating puzzle game that combines mystery with intriguing exploration. After five years, the enigmatic ship, the Obra Dinn, reappears, and players are tasked with solving the fate of its crew members – whether they vanished or met their end.

In a nod to classic PC games of yesteryear, Return Of The Obra Dinnn delivers an old-school gaming experience through its graphics and interactive gameplay. This game offers a unique element called Memento Mortem, which allows players to witness the last moments of a deceased individual. As the narrative unfolds, it subtly incorporates a “documentary feel” while surprising the player with a captivating plot twist that ventures into the realm of the supernatural.

5. Alan Wake

Horror Documentary In A Setting Dripping With Ambiance

In a seamless blend, Alan Wake combines horror and documentary-style gameplay, where the protagonist, a writer, finds himself living out his terrifying fictional tales. Additionally, his wife’s abduction adds to the suspense. The core narrative of Alan Wake revolves around battling an intelligent darkness, rescuing his wife, and unraveling the mystery at hand. The game’s episodic structure mirrors a documentary, allowing players time to absorb events and make sense of them.

In Alan Wake, it’s an uninterrupted race to locate light sources and flares, leading to suspenseful shifts between scenes that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The game also evokes a sense of solitude and the eerie sensation of being under surveillance through its in-game TV show ‘Night Springs.’ The plot is a skillfully crafted series of shocking twists that seamlessly connect all the pieces in a bizarre, documentary-style narrative.

4. Deadpool

Instead Of A Documentary Video Game, Have A Mockumentary One

Instead of following the usual pattern for documentary-style games, Deadpool stands out by incorporating a humorous, mockumentary vibe. Essentially, Deadpool is a tribute to fans of Marvel’s wisecracking anti-hero, Deadpool. Players might either cringe or burst into laughter at the game’s wit and self-referential humor. The game employs physics reminiscent of Looney Tunes with over-the-top violence and raunchiness that align perfectly with the character’s personality traits.

The narrative is a chaotic jumble, not meant for deep analysis but rather as entertainment; it’s all about having fun without overthinking things too much. Deadpool’s combat is engaging and fun, with the button-mashing feeling far from repetitive. What truly stands out are the finisher animations and Wade Wilson’s quips. The overall atmosphere and energy have a mockumentary feel that’s been amplified to maximum levels.

3. Rake

Play Out The Events Of A Fictional Documentary

Developer: Konsordo
Platforms: Microsoft Windows
Publisher: Konsordo
Released: July 13, 2015

Rake is a less-known video game that provides an immersive documentary-like experience as it incorporates a documentary within its gameplay. In this game, players assume the role of a scientist, aiming to uncover evidence of supernatural beings. The gameplay revolves around strategically placing traps and using recording equipment to catch these entities in action. Given the risky nature of the task, it’s essential for players to stay vigilant and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

In terms of graphics, Rake might not be the most modern, given its somewhat vintage visuals. Yet, it’s the gritty style that gives the game its charm. The challenge lies in mastering the movements of various creatures, such as the elusive Rake – a humanoid entity shrouded in mystery. The atmosphere of Rake shares similarities with Five Nights At Freddy’s, and the documentary-style presentation complements the overall concept nicely.

2. P.T.

No Choice But To Brave The Supernatural Horror

P.T., initially envisioned as a monumental project by Konami and gaming legend Hideo Kojima, unfortunately never fully materialized due to their falling out during production. Consequently, the demo version of this groundbreaking title is no longer accessible. However, it served as an influential catalyst for the genre of looping hallway horror games, inspiring numerous independent developers.

In this game, players traverse a continuous corridor that subtly changes as they explore and solve puzzles to move forward. With each cycle, the environment grows increasingly bizarre and disturbing, catching players off guard with unsettling and grotesque sights. The deliberate slowness and repetition wear down the player, only to then surprise them. Notably, players have no means of combat or control over their actions, reflecting their captivity within the documentary-style game’s narrative events.

1. The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe

A Witty, Clever Must-Play For Fans Of Satirical Documentary

As a game enthusiast, I can’t help but think that The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe is a masterclass in crafting a video game that mirrors the style of a documentary. In this immersive experience, you, as the player, step into the shoes of Stanley, an ordinary office worker. Your mission is to carry out tasks assigned by the enigmatic narrator who guides your actions. The intriguing part? You have the power to either obey or defy these instructions.

The narrator’s tone subtly shifts based on your choices, transforming from a friendly and approachable figure to an unsettling and malevolent presence. It’s a captivating exploration of free will, choice, and the consequences that come with both.

In “The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe,” Stanley may find himself wandering off course, only to discover he’s been transported back to his desk through a time loop. However, there will be lingering traces of the player’s previous decisions. The game offers multiple paths and endings, with its clever, ironic commentary adding to the intrigue. Much like a compelling documentary, the exploration and unforeseen elements make this game stand out due to its focus on discovery and the unexpected.

2025-06-01 22:08