When one talks about some of the best and most iconic video game franchises of all time, then it goes without saying that The Witcher series would definitely be an integral part of this conversation. While a large credit for this recognition definitely goes to The Witcher 3 and its immense success, one can't simply write off the first two games. They're also excellent titles in their own right and the perfect fit for people who want to experience one of the biggest strengths of the franchise — the story.
The Witcher series is absolutely dripping in amazing stories — whether main or optional — that end up adding a ton of flavor to one's experience and allows them to enjoy a stellar narrative that keeps them hooked at every step of their journey. In fact, this narrative will be so incredible that most people would be pining for an experience along the same lines after they're finished with this trilogy of story-driven RPGs.
So, for the people who wish to play more games with excellent stories, here are ten titles that will definitely scratch that itch.
10 Mass Effect
While it's possible to choose one of the games from the original Mass Effect trilogy that is definitely a must-play for anyone who wishes to play a brilliant story-driven RPG, the overall experience would definitely be incomplete if the entire series isn't played from start to end.
After all, Mass Effect is one of the greatest western RPGs of all time, with an amazing plot that will remain in the minds of fans long after the credits roll regardless of how controversial the ending of the third game might've been.
Of course, Mass Effect: Andromeda isn't a part of this discussion.
9 Dragon Age
One simply can't bring up one particular BioWare trilogy without mentioning another title that was iconic in its own way. Dragon Age is easily one of the best high fantasy western RPGs around, with all three games being great in their own ways although the second game might be more of a controversial pick.
Regardless, the entire Dragon Age experience is quite excellent from start to end, and one can't wait for the fourth game in the series to knock our socks off.
8 Furi
The Witcher series might feature some truly excellent plots, but their combat is more of a mixed bag. Some people love the changes made in the third game, while others still feel that the general flow of combat isn't all that great.
For people who wish to play a game with a great story and excellent combat as well, Furi should be right up their alley. This short boss-rush game might be an odd choice for this list, but there's no denying the fact that people who want a challenge to go along with their story should definitely give this game a try.
7 Katana ZERO
Another title with hard-as-nails gameplay mixed in with a brilliant story is Katana ZERO. The game achieves a number of things in stellar fashion, but due credit should be given to the deft manner in which gameplay mechanics have been woven into the story for a more immersive experience.
All this leads to an unforgettable and unique gaming experience that most fans won't forget anytime soon.
6 Hotline Miami
Of course, it would be impossible to talk about the recent wave of hard games with unique stories without mentioning the game that started it all — Hotline Miami. This legendary title pretty much put the name of Devolver Digital on the map as the face of indie gaming and allowed gamers frustrated with the complacency of AAA gaming to finally enjoy a steady stream of brilliant and imaginative titles.
The fast-paced gameplay of this title coupled with the surreal plot turned the game into an influential cult classic, with remnants of its narrative design still seen in a large number of indie games to this day.
5 Dark Souls
Most people don't think of the plot of Dark Souls when the game is mentioned, with the attention mainly focused on its imposing difficulty.
However, the lore present in the world of Dark Souls is extensive and compelling, making for a nice surprise in a game with tense and rewarding combat.
4 Bloodborne
However, there's one Hidetaka Miyazaki game with a story so rich in its complexity that it soars well above the rest of his creations.
Bloodborne is easily one of the greatest video games of all time, with its excellent combat and atmospheric world doing wonders to help players immerse themselves in a twisted Lovecraftian world that is full to the brim with some truly enticing secrets.
3 Far Cry 5
Ubisoft has been developing open-world games for the longest time, and it was only a matter of time before their formula would be refined to a T — something that can be seen in Far Cry 5.
The game is full to the brim with intriguing detail, making the act of exploring the world a genuinely compelling experience that never lets up from start to end.
2 Red Dead Redemption 2
It would be impossible to talk about games with endless narrative depth without mentioning the absolute masterpiece that is Red Dead Redemption 2.
Arthur Morgan is easily one of the most intriguing protagonists of all time, with his story being multi-faceted and entertaining in every way possible. Dutch van der Linde and his gang of lovable outlaws have definitely stamped their name in gaming history with just how memorable and likable they are, propelling a narrative that never fails to grasp the player from start to end.
1 Cyberpunk 2077
It was only a given that the one game that could easily scratch the itch left behind by The Witcher trilogy is another game by CD Projekt Red.
While it's true that Cyberpunk 2077 might have a myriad of issues — a topic that pretty much no one can miss right now — there's no denying the fact that the plot is still incredible, with a memorable cast of characters that most people won't forget anytime soon.