Best Open-World Games That Didn’t End Happily Ever After, Ranked

by

Summary

  • Endings in video games don’t always have to be happy, and sad endings can have a significant impact on players.
  • Games with sad endings, like Far Cry 5 and Final Fantasy 15, can leave players satisfied and emotionally invested.
  • Titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2 offer narratives that are emotionally impactful and leave players with a lasting impression.

Video games don’t always require cheerful conclusions; sometimes, the storyline can surprise you with an unexpectedly somber or moving finish. When executed skillfully, such endings can profoundly affect players while avoiding the impression that their efforts were futile.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve got to give a shoutout to games that hit those emotional nail-biters for their storytelling mastery. Those heart-wrenching endings leave me feeling fulfilled, even when the game doesn’t deliver the usual fairytale happy ending.

Far Cry 5

The Game Will Always End With A Nuclear Apocalypse

As a fellow gaming enthusiast, diving into Far Cry 5 was like stepping into a breath of fresh air for the series. It’s clear that the developers heard our calls for innovation and took the reins, addressing long-standing player concerns about stagnation in the franchise.

But what really made my heart race was the game’s narrative audacity, particularly when it came to wrapping things up. I mean, they weren’t afraid to shake things up a bit, which is always refreshing!

Once players believe they’ve apprehended the main antagonist and dismantled the cult threatening Hope County, Joseph surprises them with a hidden ace up his sleeve. It is then revealed that he had been secretly planning to detonate a nuclear weapon, thereby transforming the region into a desolate wasteland. This unexpected twist ranks among the most shocking endings in video game history.

Final Fantasy 15

Noctis’ Final Camping Scene With His Friends Is A Tear-Jerking Affair

The game, titled “Final Fantasy 15,” could have potentially offered much more if it hadn’t been through such a prolonged development phase. Despite its lengthy development history, fans who put in the time to immerse themselves in the expansive “Final Fantasy 15” multimedia universe found enjoyment in its offerings.

Although the story may have flaws, fans will find the conclusion surprising as Noctis gives up both his body and spirit to halt Ardyn and end the Starscourge. The post-credit scene intensifies the emotional impact of the ending, with Noctis shedding tears as he bids farewell to his friendships around a campfire, shortly before the group heads to Insomnia.

Mafia: Definitive Edition

The Protagonist’s Rise And Fall Is A Tantalizing Story

As a dedicated gaming enthusiast, I can confidently say that few narrative-focused games rival the immersive experience offered by Mafia. My character, Tommy Angelo, initially plies his trade as an ordinary cabbie, but through a series of events and personal growth, he eventually ascends to become one of the most influential figures within the underworld.

Although attempting to escape punishment from the mob, he chooses to assist the police, resulting in his alienation from them. After entering witness protection and building a tranquil family life, his violent past ultimately catches up with him as he is fatally shot on his front lawn, tragically ending his life.

Ghost Of Tsushima

In A Bid To Get Rid Of The Mongols, Jin Discards His Samurai Honor

Over the course of time, Jin comes to understand that the Mongols, unlike other cultures, do not hold honor in high regard. Faced with their invasion of Tsushima Island, he learns that the only means to drive them out is to engage them on their own terms, a path which ultimately earns him infamy among the Shogunate for his questionable methods.

As I stand toe-to-toe with my uncle, Lord Shimura, in a fateful showdown, I realize this isn’t just a battle – it’s a goodbye to the past. Whether I grant him the dignity of an honorable death or let his disgrace consume him, Ghost of Tsushima leaves no doubt: for the sake of my homeland, I have given up everything.

Grand Theft Auto 4

Niko’s Journey In Liberty City Will Always End On A Downer

In contrast to many games within the series, Grand Theft Auto 4 stands out with a deeply mature narrative, deviating from the lighthearted escapades usually associated with these games. While it retains the signature humor that GTA fans love, the game’s conclusion offers a sobering moment for players who have enjoyed being a successful and tough criminal protagonist.

Regardless of the decision Niko makes towards the end, he’ll inevitably lose someone dear to him. Though he might achieve retribution in the subsequent mission, the victory seems insignificant due to the hollow feeling it leaves behind. This is particularly amplified by the phone calls after the finale, which underscore that Niko, having lost either his cousin or his partner, is deeply distraught.

Marvel’s Spider-Man

Spider-Man Must Make A Hard Choice With Aunt May’s Life On The Line

The outstanding narrative of Marvel’s Spider-Man is a major factor contributing to its uniqueness, with players enjoying watching a grown-up Peter Parker excel at his role as he confronts formidable adversaries and strives to rescue New York City yet again.

After the Devil’s Breath epidemic sweeps through New York City, Peter discovers a single antidote that could rescue his aunt May, who is among the affected victims. Yet, by utilizing this unique cure, he understands it cannot be reproduced further to save countless others. Faced with a challenging dilemma, Peter must make a heart-wrenching choice, as Aunt May sacrifices herself for the greater good.

Cyberpunk 2077

V’s Quest To Regain Control Of Their Body Is Doomed From The Get-go

In Cyberpunk 2077, V’s struggle to avoid an untimely end when Johnny Silverhand’s consciousness begins dominating their mind presents an engaging tale. Gamers will find this captivating storyline hard to resist. However, despite various conclusions, none of them result in a cheerful outcome for the fans.

By joining forces with Arasaka, character V may give up their own soul, but will find themselves used up and barely left with any time to live. On the other hand, siding with Rogue or the Aldecaldos allows players to embark on a journey aimed at reaching Mikoshi, though this path results in the loss of a cherished character, leaving V feeling trapped and doomed regardless of their actions. Even the resolution of Phantom Liberty, which heals V and grants them a chance at a normal life, carries an undercurrent of melancholy since those around them have already accepted and moved on from the assumption that V was no longer alive.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Arthur Morgan’s Tale Will Leave Fans In Tears

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but admire Dan Houser’s masterful storytelling that breathed life into one of the most deeply emotional narratives in Rockstar games. With Red Dead Redemption 2, Arthur Morgan was transformed into an unforgettable video game hero whose character arc unfolded in a way that resonated profoundly with players worldwide.

After falling ill with tuberculosis, Arthur’s time is running out. If he maintains a high level of honor, he may witness one last sunrise before his passing. However, if his honor dips too low, Micah will end his life by shooting him and provide an abrupt farewell. Even if players seek revenge for his death as John, the remaining evidence allows the Pinkertons to pressure Marston, which ultimately leads to events unfolding in “Red Dead Redemption.

Read More

2025-08-26 05:36