Unlocking Mystery: Top Open-World Games with Amnesiac Heroes You Need to Play!

In these games, the recurring character type of an amnesiac hero might be a trope that fans might find repetitive, but there’s no arguing against the fact that the narrative depth increases significantly due to this. Players find themselves in the same position of ignorance as the protagonist, gradually uncovering the world’s mysteries and understanding how it reached such a state of decay.

In open-world games, it’s common to find vast environments filled with intricate lore that can sometimes become confusing. Interestingly, not many outstanding open-world games have protagonists who’ve lost their memory, but those that do tend to stand out more because of this unique aspect.

Games will be ranked based on their overall quality.

6. Kingdoms Of Amalur: Re-Reckoning

The Fateless One Is A Resurrected Mortal With No Knowledge Of Their Previous Memories

Among the overlooked open-world RPGs that really should receive more recognition, Kingdoms of Amalur stands out as a visually stunning game with engaging combat mechanics and impressive world development. The player assumes the role of the Fateless One, a mortal reborn with divine powers.

As a gamer, I’ve found myself immersed in a world where my character doesn’t remember their past, but that makes it easier for me to grasp the game mechanics. Despite Kingdoms of Amalur sometimes feeling familiar, the exceptional execution sets it apart from being just another forgettable game.

5. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Cloud Still Has No Clue About The Truth Regarding His Past

As Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth was released, the protagonists bid farewell to Midgar city for the first time, venturing into Gaia’s expansive, intriguing yet repetitive open world. Despite the standard sandbox design, its exceptional gameplay and captivating storyline set Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth apart as one of the most anticipated games of 2024.

Enthusiasts of the initial “Final Fantasy 7” are aware that due to the Mako poisoning inflicted by Hojo, Cloud’s memories have become jumbled and intertwined with those belonging to Zack Fair. It takes time for this realization to sink in for Cloud, and only Tifa has glimpses of his past, which will eventually be clarified in the concluding part of the trilogy.

4. Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain

Venom Snake’s Amnesia Morphs Him Into Big Boss

In Metal Gear Solid 5, Kojima’s distinctive narrative style stands out as a notable feature, despite his sudden departure leading to some complications later on. Still, this doesn’t diminish the dramatic finale which offers insight into the protagonist’s genuine character traits.

It was discovered that Venom Snake, initially a medic, suffered injuries during the explosion at the end of Ground Zeroes, much like the actual Big Boss did. While the real Big Boss embarked on a secret mission, this medic underwent extensive surgery and was subjected to brainwashing, leading him to believe he was the genuine Big Boss. This process erased all his previous memories.

3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Geralt Was Technically An Amnesiac For The Past Two Games Before He Finally Regained His Memories

At the onset of the initial Witcher game, following the Rivian Pogrom, it’s worth noting that Geralt found himself afflicted with amnesia, which could be seen as a technicality but was significant nonetheless. Throughout his journey, he failed to regain his lost memories. However, after seeking assistance from Triss, he managed to piece together fragments of his past using the Rose of Remembrance. Despite numerous obstacles, their adventure culminated in Triss’ rescue, and it was then that she aided Geralt in recalling his long-forgotten past.

After regaining his lost memories during the final moments of the second game, Geralt recalls two crucial individuals in his life – Yennefer and Ciri. Not long after, he meets up with Yennefer following an escapade in White Orchard within The Witcher 3. However, finding his adopted daughter, Ciri, leads him on a rollercoaster ride of events filled with unexpected turns. Fortunately, remembering his past happened just in the knick of time, enabling him to reunite with Ciri and safeguard her from Eredin and the Wild Hunt’s grasp.

2. Disco Elysium

The Protagonist Goes On Such A Legendary Bender That He Loses All Knowledge Of His Past Life

Right from the start, when players take charge of a detective still nursing a hangover and wearing just his underwear in Disco Elysium, they instantly realize this game is unique. Despite its comical instances, Disco Elysium has the power to evoke strong emotions as players connect with the characters and the world that unfolds before them.

Choosing an amnesiac protagonist for this game was a clever decision, allowing players to explore and comprehend the city of Revachol and its political landscape firsthand, while also delving into intricate characters such as Raphael Ambrosius Costeau (whose real name is hidden) and Kim Kitsuragi. This immersive experience culminates in a stunning climax that solidifies Disco Elysium as one of the most outstanding role-playing games ever created.

1. The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild

Link Awakens With No Memories Of His Time As Princess Zelda’s Champion

When Link stirs to consciousness in the wreckage of Hyrule, he is utterly clueless about his former existence. This is because he had been healing in the Shrine of Resurrection for a full century, having sustained grievous injuries and losing his memory due to those wounds. To uncover pieces of Link’s past, players will need to explore significant locations from his history, offering glimpses into his life before the looming threat from Ganon put the world at risk.

In Breath of the Wild, while the narrative might not take center stage, those who actively search for its lore and cinematics will find a rich and engaging story that makes the best use of its resources. The protagonist Link serves as an effective stand-in for players, who are given information about Ganon’s wickedness and how Zelda selflessly gave up her life to contain his evil power.

2025-04-30 09:35