Best Games With Barely Any Gameplay

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Many gamers expect video games to have deep and captivating gameplay. While that’s common, video games don’t always need to be complicated to be enjoyable. Sometimes, simplicity can be just as effective.

Surprisingly, some of the most beloved video games aren’t actually fun to *play*. They stick with people because of their compelling stories, beautiful graphics, and amazing music – these elements more than make up for any lack of traditional gameplay.

Class Of ’09

A Hilarious Visual Novel With Some Truly Wild Endings

Visual novels can sometimes feel like just reading a story, making it hard for players to truly get involved. However, some games try to change that by adding unique gameplay. *Class of ’09* is a rare example of a game that actively goes against the typical visual novel format.

Playing as Nicole is a lot of fun because she’s so funny, and each of the game’s endings feels rewarding. With its excellent writing and enjoyable characters, this game is a great way to start the *Class of ’09* series.

Mouthwashing

Aside From Some Annoying Chase Sequences, Gameplay Isn’t A Huge Part Of This Title

If you’re looking for a truly scary horror game, check out *Mouthwashing*. It focuses on building tension through exploration and includes straightforward puzzles that won’t distract from the overall atmosphere.

Even though the pursuit sections can be frustrating occasionally, the core gameplay of *Mouthwashing* is straightforward and fun. The scary story is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat and will make for a truly unforgettable horror experience.

The Stanley Parable

An Elaborate Walking Simulator Where Hilarity Ensues Based On The Player’s Actions

Walking simulators don’t usually require complex gameplay, and *The Stanley Parable* fits that description perfectly. Players especially enjoy the game’s witty narrator and how even following a straightforward path can lead to multiple different endings and plenty of funny moments.

Every route you can take in *The Stanley Parable* is incredibly engaging, proving that captivating storytelling and a fantastic narrator are enough to keep players hooked. Despite its minimal gameplay, it remains one of the most enjoyable games available.

Slay The Princess

A Horror Visual Novel That Goes Down A Wild Route

Slay the Princess is a captivating horror visual novel that’s easy to get hooked on. The game puts you in control of a character tasked with a dark mission: instead of rescuing a princess, you must kill her. A single playthrough quickly reveals what makes this game so enjoyable.

The story takes a surprising turn, blending themes of god-like power with chilling, Lovecraftian horror. To understand everything, players will need to explore multiple endings, all while dealing with a growing chorus of voices inside their characters’ minds.

Milk Inside A Bag Of Milk Inside A Bag Of Milk

A Simple Grocery Run Turns Into Something Nightmarish

Okay, so if you’re into creepy visual novels, you *have* to check out *Milk inside a bag of milk inside a bag of milk*. Seriously, it’s messed up. You play as this girl who’s dealing with some really heavy stuff – trauma and psychosis – and it makes even something simple like going to the grocery store turn into a total nightmare. It’s a really intense experience.

This game is brief but memorable, thanks to its beautiful art and compelling story. It’s no surprise the developer created a sequel that expands on everything players loved about the original, offering a grander, more intense experience while still delivering the same spooky atmosphere.

Her Story

A FMV Video Hunter With An Incredible Story That Cooks At A Tantalizing Pace

Her Story is a detective game that looks simple but is actually quite clever. You watch short clips of police interviews and search for keywords to solve the mystery of a missing man and figure out what his wife knows.

This game is a unique investigative experience that relies on a very simple core mechanic. When it was released, *Her Story* stood out because it captivated players worldwide with its innovative approach, even though it didn’t focus on traditional gameplay.

Journey

One Of The Greatest Walking Simulators Ever Made

When Journey was released, its beautiful graphics and easy-to-learn gameplay quickly gained a dedicated following. Players were captivated by the game’s incredible adventure, which surprisingly packed a lot of emotional depth into the simple act of exploration and progress.

Players can connect and share the experience with others in a natural way. But what truly makes *Journey* special is its stunning art style and moving story, which combine to create one of the most beautiful and peaceful video games ever made – aside from one particularly challenging section.

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney

The First Game That Would Establish A Beloved Series Of Detective Games

I absolutely love the *Ace Attorney* games – they’re amazing! But honestly, at their core, they’re really detailed visual novels. You spend a lot of time listening to what people say in court and trying to find the holes in their stories. Later games added some cool extras to keep things fresh, but the very first *Ace Attorney* game kept things pretty simple – it was mostly just you and the testimony.

This was early in the *Ace Attorney* series, before many of the features we see now were added. There weren’t things like the Magatama system, mood boards, perception challenges, or even the complex deductions of Herlock Sholmes. It was simply the core gameplay of exploring locations and proving statements false – a basic formula that all later *Ace Attorney* games built upon.

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2025-09-21 06:05