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What are the saddest video games of all time?

The gaming industry has evolved tremendously in the last decades.

From barely distinguishable pixels that were more abstractizations of characters and locations than anything else, we’ve reached a point where we can render fully fleshed-out worlds and characters in high detail.

And with high graphical fidelity comes the opportunity to deliver emotional, believable stories because, you know, it’s really hard to become attached to a coalescence of polygons.

As with many other things, whether a story is emotional or not is highly subjective.

For this purpose, we’ve strived to pick out sad games with well-crafted stories that even if they will not make you burst into tears, they’ll at least make you reach out for a box of napkins just in case.

 

The Criteria

Criteria for choosing the saddest video games:

• Is the story well-crafted and devoid of cheesy, tear-jerking moments?
• Are the characters relatable enough to make players feel they’ve developed an emotional bond with them?
• Does the game discuss/debate themes revolving around depression, anxiety, loneliness, and hopelessness, whether emotional or material?
• Does the game contain at least one scene (preferably the ending) where players are forced to wipe at least one tear from their eyes?

It’s also worth mentioning that, for the purposes of this article, we’ve temporarily strayed away from the realm of RPGs and included games from all genres.

We did that in order to be able to include all the sad video games we have ever played.

 

The 25 Saddest Video Games of All Time

With that being said, let’s kick off this emotional roller-coaster of an article and talk about the saddest video games that will bring forth the onion-cutting ninjas.

 

25. SHADOW OF THE COLOSSUS

Initial Release Date: October 18, 2005

Platforms: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3

Developer: Team Ico, Sony Interactive Entertainment, SIE Japan Studio

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

Shadow of the Colossus, also known as “Oh God, WHAT HAVE I DONE?!” is a profoundly melancholic video game experience.

Playing as a young man seeking to resurrect his slain maiden, you venture into a forbidden kingdom.

A mysterious entity offers to bring her back if you slay the kingdom’s 16 ancient colossi, peaceful creatures that pose no threat unless provoked.

Thus, you embark on a journey of senseless murder, compelled by the desperate hope that the entity will honor its promise.

Tragically, you have no choice but to accept this morally ambiguous path, gradually realizing the weight of your actions as innocent creatures perish for personal gain.

The game’s heartbreaking essence lies in the realization that you are practically committing genocide solely to save one person, adding a poignant layer to the narrative.

 

24. GRIS

Initial Release Date: December 13, 2018

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Windows, MacOS

Developer: Nomada Studio

Publisher: Devolver Digital

GRIS, an indie masterpiece, captivates with its stunning beauty and transforms every frame into a work of art. Initially discovered by chance, the trailers only scratched the surface of this game’s brilliance.

GRIS delves into themes of loss and self-discovery, using minimal text and instead relying on color, intricate art, universal symbols, and a haunting soundtrack.

The protagonist, a young girl who has lost her voice and herself, finds her emotions mirrored in the ever-changing world around her, from desolate deserts to lush forests and conquering the sky. The game’s art dynamically evolves, adding layers of patterns, shapes, and colors that deepen the narrative and unveil new mechanics.

The embodiment of Gris’s depression, known as “The Darkness,” starts as a harmless flock of birds but gradually transforms into a colossal creature or a menacing ocean, symbolizing the imminent threat that looms over her.

Every design choice in GRIS is purposeful, even the statue representing Gris herself, which metamorphoses as she progresses towards overcoming her grief. Nomada Studio’s achievement lies in conveying a universal experience within a mere four hours of gameplay.

With its breathtaking art, GRIS offers a timeless exploration of mental anguish and depression.

While it may not bring tears, it leaves a profound impact that resonates deeply within.

 

23. TELLTALE’S THE WALKING DEAD SERIES

Initial Release Date: April 24, 2012

Platforms: PS4, Android, Xbox One, PS3

Developer: Telltale Games

Publisher: Telltale Games

Telltale’s The Walking Dead game series stands out in the zombie apocalypse genre by focusing on the human condition rather than mindless violence.

It presents tough decisions in desperate times, where even survival isn’t a guarantee.

The game evokes dramatic moments and explores the consequences of choices made.

While avoiding spoilers, it’s worth mentioning that being set in a zombie-infested world, a happy ending is not to be expected.

The Walking Dead game series is a poignant and emotionally impactful experience that qualifies as one of the saddest video games.

 

22. BROTHERS: A TALE OF TWO SONS

Initial Release Date: August 7, 2013

Platforms: Android, PS4, Xbox One, PS3, Xbox 360, iOS, Windows PC & Phone

Developer: Starbreeze Studios

Publisher: 505 Games

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons is a unique and emotionally impactful game that combines story elements with innovative gameplay mechanics.

Players control two brothers on a quest to find a cure for their sick father.

The game’s control scheme, where each brother is assigned to a different stick, creates a bond between the characters and the player. Despite the absence of recognizable language, the emotional impact is strong.

The gameplay mainly consists of puzzle solving, which becomes a seamless and intuitive experience. The game’s short duration of about three hours allows for a concentrated and powerful narrative.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons is a must-play game that can evoke tears through the simple act of pressing a button.

 

21. Undertale

Initial Release Date: September 15, 2015

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PS4, Windows, Linux, MacOS, PSVita

Developer: Toby Fox

Publisher: Toby Fox

Undertale, another meta-masterpiece akin to The Stanley Parable, entered the scene at just the right time.

In an industry where Western video game design has taken (with the risk of generalizing) a more realistic route, Undertale took the opposite route, ditching the cynicism, grittiness, and violence of many popular titles in favor of a lighter approach.

One could argue that Undertale is a work of postmodernist video gaming, as it deconstructs (you’ll be hearing this word a lot here) many conventions of metagaming that we take for granted.

Some examples include saving, loading, replaying, and even discussing the game.

But the real hook of Undertale is how it recognizes our deeply rooted ways of thinking about violence in video games and exploits them for maximum effect.

Granted, Undertale has its fair share of jokes, meta-irony, and fourth-wall-breaking moments, but the thing about it is that, unless you go through a full-asshole playthrough, most of the time you’ll cry out of sheer joy and happiness. Like any major work of art, Undertale is both sad and bittersweet.

It’s hard to talk more about it without spoiling the experience, but if you’re up for some feels, Undertale is a mandatory play.

 

20. The Last of Us

Initial Release Date: June 14, 2013

Platforms: PlayStation 3

Developer: Naughty Dog

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

The Last of Us is a remarkable and profoundly emotional experience.

At first glance, it appears to be a typical post-apocalyptic third-person shooter, not an obvious contender for the saddest video game.

However, what sets The Last of Us apart is the relationship between Joel and Ellie, as their bond deepens throughout their journey. This father-daughter dynamic forms the heart of the game. As with any good post-apocalyptic tale, The Last of Us challenges players morally and emotionally, highlighting the gray areas of survival in a dog-eat-dog world.

It raises questions about the justifiability of murder in certain circumstances and the trade-offs between personal connections and group survival. The game presents players with numerous intense dilemmas, where there are no perfect choices; it all boils down to surviving and living with the consequences.

We can all relate to hitting rock bottom at some point in our lives, experiencing despair, and grappling with the repercussions of choices that may not align with our values.

 

19. Always Sometimes Monsters

Initial Release Date: May 21, 2014

Platforms: Android, Microsoft Windows, Linux, PS4

Developer: Vagabond Dog

Publisher: Devolver Digital

Always Sometimes Monsters offers a unique and realistic take on the role-playing genre.

Players assume the role of a failed author who discovers that their love is about to get married across the country.

The game presents players with moral dilemmas and conflicting emotions as they navigate through tough decisions. The choices made throughout the game, including flashbacks to the character’s past, impact the outcome and ending.

It challenges players to consider the consequences of their actions and explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth.

 

18. THIS WAR OF MINE

Initial Release Date: November 14, 2014

Platforms: Android, Nintendo Switch, PS4, iOS, Xbox One, Windows, MacOS, Linux.

Developer: 11-bit Studios

Publisher: 11-bit Studios

This War of Mine offers a unique perspective by placing players in the shoes of ordinary civilians struggling to survive in a war zone.

Set during a civil war, the game features a diverse group of survivors with different skills and personalities based on their backstories.

Players must navigate the delicate balance between helping others and ensuring their own survival while grappling with the moral implications of their actions.

It provides a thought-provoking experience that challenges traditional gaming conventions by focusing on the human side of war.

 

17. LIFE IS STRANGE

Initial Release Date: January 30, 2015

Platforms: Android, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Macintosh operating systems

Developer: Dotnod Entertainment

Publisher: Square Enix

Life is Strange is a captivating episodic adventure game that explores the complexities of coming of age with a sci-fi twist.

It fearlessly tackles difficult themes like depression, death, introversion, and the search for belonging.

The game’s standout features are Max’s ability to rewind time and genuine relationships, particularly with her friend Chloe. As you play, you realize that every action and alteration has far-reaching consequences, leading to a sense of being overwhelmed.

The game builds towards an impossible decision, evoking powerful emotions that are bound to make you cry, regardless of the choice you make.

 

16. TO THE MOON

Initial Release Date: November 1, 2011

Platforms: Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Macintosh operating systems

Developer: Freebird Games

Publisher: Freebird Games

To The Moon is a poignant and thought-provoking game that shares similarities with the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.”

It revolves around the unconventional job of Dr. Rosalene and Dr. Watts, who alter people’s memories to fulfill their final wishes. The story focuses on fulfilling the dream of an elderly man named Johnny, who wants to go to the moon.

The gameplay involves exploring Johnny’s memories and manipulating them to create the illusion of achieving his dream.

The game’s beautiful writing and music create emotional moments that resonate on a deeply personal level. It delves into the complexities of human existence, with all its flaws and aspirations.

To The Moon is a journey that evokes a range of emotions, from sadness to happiness and enlightenment, reminding us of what it means to be human.

 

15. That Dragon, Cancer

Initial Release Date: January 12, 2016

Platforms: Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Ouya, Macintosh operating systems

Developer: Numinous Games

Publisher: Numinous Games

That Dragon, Cancer, developed by Ryan Green, conveys emotions through its presentation rather than just its subject matter.

Inspired by Ryan and his wife’s experiences with their son Joel’s illness, the game is played as an exploration game from different perspectives.

The emotional impact comes from the mix of gritty realism and abstract moments, such as a wagon ride through the hospital.

The game features narration by Ryan and real-life recordings, providing a deeply personal touch. That Dragon, Cancer is difficult to fully describe, as it chronicles the family’s story while also helping people cope with loss and open up to others.

 

14. VALIANT HEARTS: THE GREAT WAR

Initial Release Date: June 24, 2014

Platforms: PS4, Android, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, PS4, Xbox 360, Windows

Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier

Publisher: Ubisoft

The story of Valiant Hearts: The Great War reads almost as a quirky post-modernist take on historical events.

The plot, inspired by letters written during World War I, follows four characters on the battlefield who help a young German soldier find his love. But like all great tales, this is only the surface – Valiant Hearts is as much a love story as it’s a story about friendship, sacrifice, and survival.

Despite its Wes Andersoneque premise, Valiant Hearts doesn’t shy away from portraying the misery and brutality of war. And believe it or not, it captures the nightmare that was World War I without graphic depictions of blood, gore, and violence, focusing instead on the implications and the human element rather than the obvious elements.

It’s a deep and very touching story coming from the last place you would imagine.

 

13. Gone Home

Initial Release Date: August 5, 2013

Platforms: PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Windows, Linux, MacOS, ioS

Developer: Fullbright, Blitworks

Publisher: The Fullbright Company

On June 7th, 1995, you return home from backpacking through Europe to find your family missing in Gone Home.

The game unfolds as you explore the house and interact with objects, with no traditional gameplay.

The narrative is the driving force, revealing the fascinating history of an average American family. The characters feel relatable, and the game captures a specific moment in time, reminiscent of Night in the Woods.

The house is filled with ’90s memorabilia, and the attention to detail is commendable, particularly for those who remember that era’s transition between analog and high-speed communication technology.

 

12. ORI AND THE BLIND FOREST

Initial Release Date: March 11, 2015

Platforms: PC, Xbox One

Developer: Moon Studios

Publisher: Microsoft Studios

Ori and the Blind Forest is an emotionally powerful game that had me in tears right from the prologue.

The music, art, and heartwarming relationship between Ori and Naru remind me of beloved Disney animations and evoke a sense of childlike wonder. The emotions are pure and impossible to resist. The game starts with Ori’s world falling apart, leaving her alone and lost.

The gameplay captures her sadness, but as the adventure unfolds, the pace changes while maintaining the game’s beauty and challenge.

The last few scenes are particularly poignant. And if you’re looking for more reasons to cry, the sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, is set to be released next year.

 

11. TRANSISTOR

Initial Release Date: May 20, 2014

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PS4, iOS, Windows, Linux MacOS, tvOS

Developer: Supergiant Games

Publisher: Supergiant Games

Transistor, the follow-up to Bastion by Supergiant Games, is a heartbreakingly beautiful game that showcases the potential of the medium as meaningful art.

The story revolves around Red, a singer in Cloudbank who is attacked by the robotic force known as the Process.

Armed with the Transistor, a mechanical sword containing the voices of its victims, Red seeks to save the city and reclaim her lost voice.

Like Bastion, Transistor’s emotional impact is conveyed through Red’s struggle and the game’s aesthetic, which exudes an urban melancholy.

With its great story and masterful design, Transistor offers a short yet intense gaming experience that evokes a range of emotions.

 

10. LAST DAY OF JUNE

Initial Release Date: August 31, 2017

Platforms: PS4, Nintendo Switch, Windows

Developer: TOvosonico

Publisher: 505 Games

Last Day of June is, simply put, an interactive adventure game about love, loss, and grief.

The story is inspired by Steven Wilson’s haunting song ‘’Drive Home’’ – by the looks of it, post-Porcupine Tree Steven Wilson has recovered some of his mojo – with the game itself serving as a recreation of it.

Despite its colorful color palette – which certainly adds a layer of charm to the game – Last Day of June launches some pretty tough dilemmas – what would you do to save the one you love?

Where do you draw the line between saving and protecting your loved one and hurting others?

Is saving your loved one to the detriment of others a noble pursuit that demonstrates unwavering loyalty and strength of character, or is it a purely selfish act?

Obviously, there can’t ever be a right answer to these questions, so the least we can do is acknowledge the full extent of our actions and live with the consequences.

In this respect, Last Day of June does a marvelous job of exploring, and debating these dilemmas and even offering a few solutions, without sounding overly preachy or cynical.

 

9. MAX PAYNE & MAX PAYNE 2: THE FALL OF MAX PAYNE

Initial Release Date: July 23, 2001 / October 15, 2003

Developer: Remedy Entertainment

Publisher: Rockstar Games

The first Max Payne game follows the story of a cop seeking revenge for his family’s murder.

While the premise may seem basic, what sets Max Payne apart is its exploration of the protagonist’s psyche.

Max’s inner struggles take center stage, overshadowing the destruction he leaves in his wake.

The game’s presentation, using a comic-book panel format, effectively conveys the mood and psychological torment of the story.

Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne continues the narrative, delving deeper into Max’s emotional turmoil as he tries to face his demons.

The sequel showcases superior narration and emotional impact. Despite a break from the chaos, Max’s wounds remain unhealed, leading him to fall back into destructive habits.

The game portrays the vicious nature of grief, pain, and depression, intertwining them into a compelling story.

Just as Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice accurately portrays mental illness, the first two Max Payne titles capture the complexities of grief and depression, delivering a thematically resonant experience.

 

8. HELLBLADE: SENUA’S SACRIFICE

Initial Release Date: August 8, 2017

Platforms: PC, PS4 (also available in VR)

Developer: Ninja Theory

Publisher: Ninja Theory

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, developed by Ninja Theory, stands out for its exploration of mental health.

The game follows the dark and profound journey of Senua, a young woman, through her personal hell.

Playing it twice, I was deeply moved, experiencing the ugly cry and lingering thoughts about Senua’s story.

The game’s reality is presented in an unusual way, reflecting the battles fought in the mind. Understanding the narrative may be challenging due to Senua’s mental psychosis, but the game’s focus is to tell a beautiful story of love and loss.

Hellblade achieves this by stripping away unnecessary mechanics, relying on superb storytelling and haunting voices.

The combat, reminiscent of Dark Souls, strikes a balance between challenging and fair, intensifying the feeling of angst with each death. The deeper you delve into the story, the more you learn about Senua’s past and her enduring spirit.

Without spoiling the game, the ending resonates deeply, addressing profound questions about life, death, and mental health. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is not just a game; it’s a transformative journey.

 

7. NIGHT IN THE WOODS

Initial Release Date: January 10, 2017

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PS4, Android, Xbox One, iOS, Windows, MacOS, Linux

Developer: Infinite Fall, Secret Lab

Publisher: Finji

Night in the Woods is a story-driven exploration game set in Possum Springs, a town inhabited by anthropomorphic animals.

You play as Mae, a college dropout returning to her hometown only to find it changed.

The game tackles themes such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, and the decline of small-town America. Despite the serious subjects, Night in the Woods approaches them with a lighter tone, reminiscent of shows like Bojack Horseman and Scott Pilgrim vs the World.

The emotional impact comes through implication rather than dramatic scenes.

The quirky and sarcastic characters are a joy to interact with, but you sense that there is more beneath the surface. Exploring the town, talking to its inhabitants, and spending time with friends form the main gameplay. The town of Possum Springs itself is a standout element, capturing the essence of a dying post-industrial town.

The story revolves around the mystery of the disappearances and the changes in Mae’s old friends. The focus lies in exploring the mentioned themes and the sense of alienation from one’s hometown.

While Night in the Woods may not bring uncontrollable tears, its well-written characters and the melancholic atmosphere will eventually resonate with players on an emotional level.

 

6. STARDEW VALLEY

Initial Release Date: February 26, 2016

Platforms: All recent platforms

Developer: Concerned Ape

Publisher: Chucklefish

Stardew Valley is a delightful and nostalgic game that exudes happiness and charm.

However, beneath its surface, there is a subtle undercurrent of sadness.

While the initial objective is to restore your grandfather’s farm, the game reveals a deeper purpose of indirectly aiding the struggling community. You have the opportunity to support the local economy, assist the mayor in revitalizing the community center, and resist the encroachment of the soulless Joja Corporation.

The stories of your neighbors, including an unemployed mother, a war veteran with PTSD, a dreamer trapped in the town, and an elderly couple longing for the past, highlight the town’s economic stagnation and the need for hope.

Stardew Valley transcends being a mere farming simulation by portraying a group of people who yearn for guidance and inspiration.

As a newcomer with a thriving farm, you have the potential to become the strong figure they desperately need.

 

5. Dark Souls

Initial Release Date: September 22, 2011

Platforms: PS3, Xbox 360, Windows, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Developer: FromSoftware

Publisher: Bandai Namco

 

4. The Cat Lady

 

Initial Release Date: December 7, 2012

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux

Developer: Harvester Games

Publisher: Screen 7

The Cat Lady follows the story of Susan Ashworth, a 40-year-old woman who is going through a tough time.

She has no family, no friends, and her only companions are stray cats. One night, when Susan is on the verge of committing suicide, she is taken to an eerie place similar to limbo where a being called the Queen of Maggots grants her immortality.

The catch? She has to kill five psychopaths.

From a genre perspective, The Cat Lady is a psychological horror title with lots of disturbing moments. At its core, though, it’s much more than that, as the developers found a way to take depression and loneliness and translate it into game form flawlessly.

The Cat Lady serves both as an intriguing horror story aided by a great art style and a coping mechanism for those who suffer from depression, as the main character is portrayed in a relatable (and most times sympathetic) fashion.

 

3. The Witcher 3

Initial Release Date: May 19, 2015

Platforms: PS4, Windows, Xbox One

Developer: CD Projekt Red

Publisher: CD Projekt Red

Witcher 3 is hailed as one of the greatest fantasy RPGs, delivering an immersive experience with memorable characters, a captivating soundtrack, and emotionally charged quests.

The side-quests bring depth to the main story, depicting the consequences of war and the struggles of a ravaged land. Your decisions in these quests can have a significant impact on the world.

CD Projekt Red created a grim and realistic world, filled with relatable characters. Moments like finding Ciri without dialogue, the passing of time in Kaer Morhen, and heartfelt interactions make the game incredibly moving.

Witcher 3 is a must-play, known for its emotional storytelling and Andrzej Sapkowski’s influence.

 

2. THOMAS WAS ALONE

Initial Release Date: June 30, 2012

Platforms: all recent platforms

Developer: Mike Bithell

Publisher: Mike Bithell

In the game Thomas Was Alone, players control simple rectangles representing self-aware artificial intelligence beings within a computer mainframe.

Each rectangle has its own unique characteristics, conveyed through the narrator’s vivid descriptions.

As the game progresses, the shapes’ thoughts, dreams, and struggles are revealed, influencing their interactions with the environment and each other.

Despite the abstract nature, Thomas Was Alone is a charming and emotional game enhanced by excellent narration and writing.

The game’s ability to imbue shapes with distinct personalities makes it a standout in storytelling and one of the saddest video games.

 

1. THE BEGINNER’S GUIDE

Initial Release Date: October 1, 2015

Platforms: Windows, MacOS, Linux

Developer: Davey Wreden

Publisher: Davey Wreden

The Stanley Parable brought a meta-ironic deconstruction of gaming tropes, leaving people curious about David Wreden’s next project.

In 2015, The Beginner’s Guide provided the answer.

This interactive storytelling game, narrated by Wreden himself, invites players to understand a person’s nature by exploring files and documents on their computer, devoid of context. Wreden’s narration guides players, commenting on their discoveries and offering tips for challenging sections.

At its surface, The Beginner’s Guide explores the emotional and intellectual struggles of art creators, particularly game developers, while also serving as a meta-commentary on the perception of games as art or entertainment.

On a deeper level, the game may deconstruct Wreden’s own psyche before and after the success of The Stanley Parable, which propelled him to industry legend status. There is no definitive interpretation, but the central theme revolves around the motivations behind creating art.

Does art stem from a need for validation, a desire to leave a lasting legacy, or simply for the sake of creating something beautiful?

The Beginner’s Guide tackles these profound questions, offering a deeply emotional experience that resonates with creators across various fields.

 

Summary

Here’s a quick recap of the 25 saddest video games of all time:

1. The Beginner’s Guide
2. Thomas Was Alone
3. The Witcher 3
4. The Cat Lady
5. Dark Souls
6. Stardew Valley
7. Night in the Woods
8. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
9. Max Payne & Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne
10. The Last Day of June
11. Transistor
12. Ori and the Blind Forest
13. Gone Home
14. Valiant Hearts: The Great War
15. That Dragon, Cancer
16. To The Moon
17. Life is Strange
18. This War of Mine
19. Always Sometimes Monster
20. The Last of Us
21. Undertale
22. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons
23. Telltale’s The Walking Dead Series
24. Gris
25. Shadow of the Colossus

So, what was the saddest video game that YOU have ever played? Let us know in the comments below!