23 Best Single Player Story Games on PS4

Settling down in your favorite gaming chair, headphones on, snacks within reach, goodbye outside world hello wonderfully immersive single-player story. I love being swept away on that narrative tide. The magical feeling you get when a game is so riveting you just can’t put it down when every new area and every fresh story beat is a thrilling surprise.

Here are 10 of our personal favorites. We’ve limited ourselves to one game per series, and the list is in no particular order. There are so many amazing games to choose from. We can’t possibly list them all. So please do let us know your own choices in the comments.

Marvel’s spider-man

Our first entry is Marvel’s spider-man. A game that unsurprisingly nailed the feeling of swinging and plunging across an open-world New York as everyone’s favorite superhero. What we didn’t realize before playing, however, was how engrossed we’d become in Peter Parker’s story. Insomniac delivered a thrilling narrative full of cinematic set-pieces but also one beating with warmth and humanity.

Some of my favorite moments from the game don’t involve webs and skyscrapers at all. They are more about the person underneath the suit, like the touches of humor between Peter and MJ the intriguing relationship between Peter and his mentor Dr Octavius. The bond he shares with Aunt May and the emergence of young Miles Morales.

You will laugh, and you will probably cry playing Marvel’s spider-man. Honestly, I found it to be one of my favorite Spiderman stories ever. The emotional investment is ensuring that when you do get round to thumping bad guys and tying helicopters in knots and you will the payoff is all the more satisfying. Writing your memoirs don’t forget the hyphen between spider man.

The Last Guardian

The Last Guardian is our next entry. A game that continues the tradition lay down by its spiritual predecessors of making you emotionally invested often to the point of Tears in a relationship between two central characters. We’ve had eco and Yoda, Wander and Agro and now it’s boy and Trico. A pair that share an unspoken bond as they journey together through a beautiful ruined castle.

This is video game’s storytelling like you’ve never seen it. The Last Guardian spins its tale in the rocks and the ancient architecture of this long-forgotten place and also in the body of Trico. You can see the animals every emotion in its eyes, hear the fear in its quavering voice, and feel its uncertainty in every tentative movement of its limbs.

You’ll feel the bond between this pair without a word being spoken. This is a story you play rather than one you’re told, and it really is a gaming experience like no other.

The Last of Us remastered

Our next game is the Last of Us remastered naughty Dog’s emotionally taut exhaustingly tense character drama using their experience of performance capture and storytelling. Gained on the Uncharted series Naughty Dog here brought a new level of expertise and commitment to gaming narrative. Devising a world of danger and desolation. In order to frame the central relationship between broken father Joel and his vulnerable young companion Ellie.

Lean gameplay that lurches between tight chested stealth and sudden bursts of brutal action complements the game’s character and story work perfectly as does the beautifully repulsive design of the infected bodies flayed by invasive fungus.

Humanity returning to the earth and trying to take you with it. It’s no exaggeration to say the last of us set new standards in storytelling and change to the kind of quality that players expected and developers realized they could aspire to.

Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

And look fine let’s just roll straight into what Naughty Dog did next which was uncharted 4 a thief’s end. As a sit-down and soak it up single-player experience it’s hard to think of one that tops uncharted 4. It is designed to immerse to Wow to Charm and entertain. It has all the feel-good laughs and light touch likeability of its PS3 forebears, and it cranks up the gorgeous scenery to new levels thanks to the power of PS4.

But post-Last of Us, there’s also a new depth to the characters and a looming end of era sense of danger to this final adventure. Uncharted 4 is the complete package obscene action, outstanding visuals considered storytelling and somehow the same old Nathan Drake.

Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture

Let’s change pace for a moment with one of our favorite games on PS4. Everybody’s gone to the rapture really does feel like it was made just for us. A mournful narrative-based mystery set in the English countryside of the catastrophe braced the 1980s. Part of the joy is walking through the wonderfully observed village of Yaughton.

The pub, the Town Hall, the other pub and the sense that everyone knows one another in a world that somehow smaller than ours is now. Then there’s the mystery itself, a John Windham style story of disaster happening in tiny human spaces.

A mix of credible science fiction with several stations and Cold War paranoia. Traces of those who lived in your turn come through audio echoes of their final interactions which mix and swirl with the games transported pastoral soundtrack to create wonderful human moments of regret, anger and acceptance. There’s nothing else like it on ps4, and we will love it forever.

Bloodborne

Get past the daunting reputation and blood-borne is still one of the most intensely rewarding games on PlayStation 4. Sticking close to the dark soul’s formula that brought them international recognition. From software shift from classic fantasy dungeons to blood-borne Lovecraftian Gothic abyss. Creating another mysterious broken world steeped in blood thick atmosphere and packed with creatures of fiendishly unsettling design.

The game isn’t anything as boring as simply hard. Instead, it demands your attention. Making the most common encounters deadly if your guard is down and in a brilliantly captured spirit of Lovecraftian. Making it genuinely challenging to progress because of the horror at what you might discover. There are few games so rich in design, structure and story. Make sure you give blood-borne ago.

Horizon Zero Dawn

The problem with horizon zero dawn is that it’s so good at so many things that we genuinely struggled to figure out which of our top ten lists it should appear on. What can we do? It’ll be more than one. We couldn’t leave it off here because unlike some games that nail the open-world experience or feature extraordinary moment-to-moment combat horizon zero dawn does all this and also offers a first-rate story.

Our hero Aloy lived on future earth dominated by machine creatures with human civilization limited to tribes of superstitious hunter-gatherers until that is a compelling original science fiction mystery comes along to explain the state of the world. Aloy is terrific fun to be and be with capable and calm, intelligent and rational.

The game’s machine hunting combat mechanics are sophisticated physics-based and at times scarcely believable. The result is a game that screams with quality on so many different levels, all of which meshed together to form one of the most fulfilling solo campaigns on PS4.

Detroit: Become Human

Next, we have Detroit become human. We were never going to get through this list without mentioning at least one game from Quantic Dream. The French studio that’s developed a unique style of interactive cinematic narrative game design and Detroit is their latest and best.

A near-future story of Android emancipation told through three interlinking perspectives. Connor, a police investigator who hunts down other androids, Marcus, the leader of the Android uprising and Kara a housekeeper Android gaining consciousness. As with other Quantic Dream titles, Detroit is visually extraordinary, and the multi-threaded narrative offers dozens of possibilities as well as plenty of danger.

As any and all of the three characters can die at several points. The game’s focus on story and presentation also makes it the perfect showcase for its performers. Who all imbue their synthetic characters with a beautifully human range of deft well-observed emotions.

Final Fantasy VII Remake

When you think of getting lost in a story, a few video games in history can match the timeless classic, Final Fantasy 7. So it comes as no surprise that Final Fantasy 7 remake her glorious PS4 reimagining of one of the greatest games ever made has its narrative hooks in you before clouds ATB gauge has even filled.

You could argue Final Fantasy 7 epic tale resonates, even more, today than it did in 1997, following a heroic band of eco-warriors defending the planet from an evil corporation profiteering from bleeding its natural resources dry. But the real reason we love Final Fantasy 7 remake so much is a simple one really. The characters are fantastic brought to life in breathtaking detail by beautiful animation, sharp writing and top-class voice acting.

These are characters and places that existed mostly in our imagination twenty-three years ago. Our minds are filling in the blanks left by text boxes and pre-rendered backdrops. The same way you do with characters in a novel, and now here they are two decades later perfectly fleshed out.

If you loved the original Final Fantasy 7 remake will knock your socks off. And if this is your first FF experience, I sort of envy the dazzling adventure on which you’re about to be swept away. This game truly is one to savour.

God of War

Here in PlayStation Land, we’ve been absolutely spoiled this generation with big-name story-driven blockbusters that rock up and just absolutely deliver. God of War is a prominent name on this list. A prodigal son is returning after a serious and much-needed makeover.

While the God of War games have always been brilliantly slick and playable action titles. In this post-Last of Us world that’s just not enough, Kratos needed depth. A plausible story and a reason for us to side with him other than that he’s super angry and great at chopping people up. The new God of War delivers relocating the demigod to a new Norse setting and smartly making the story about Kratos coming to terms with the kind of one-dimensional character he used to be and urging his young son to avoid taking a similar path.

None of which means the action and chopping have gone anywhere when necessary Kratos can still get really nasty really fast, and the combat system here is as intricate and rewarding as anything the series has offered. But now it’s part of a richer world and a more in-depth story.

Wolfenstein II – The New Colossus

The New Colossus is a first-person shooter game developed by MachineGames and published by Bethesda Softworks. It is the eighth main entry in the Wolfenstein series and the sequel to 2014’s Wolfenstein: The New Order.

Players take on the role of B.J. Blazkowicz, a grizzled veteran of World War II who is on a mission to overthrow the Nazi regime. The game features fast-paced, bloody, and satisfying gameplay, as well as a well-written and emotionally charged storyline.

The New Colossus features a variety of weapons, all of which are upgradeable, as well as several different difficulty levels, allowing players to tailor the game to their preferred playstyle.

Resident Evil 2

Resident Evil 2 is a survival horror game developed and published by Capcom. A remake of the 1998 game of the same name, Resident Evil 2 takes place in Raccoon City, which has been overrun by zombies as a result of a viral outbreak.

Players control Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield as they attempt to survive and escape the city. The game features intense combat, puzzles, and resource management, as well as beautifully rendered environments and top-notch voice acting.

Resident Evil 2’s intense atmosphere, coupled with its well-designed levels and enemies, make it a must-play for fans of the survival horror genre.

Assassin’s Creed – Valhalla

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is an action role-playing game developed by Ubisoft Montreal and published by Ubisoft. It is the twelfth main entry in the Assassin’s Creed series and takes place in 873 AD, during the Viking invasions of Britain.

Players control Eivor, a Viking raider, as they build a settlement, recruit allies, and engage in battles to gain control of England. Valhalla features a vast open world, allowing players to explore the countryside and cities of England, as well as engage in raiding, hunting, and fishing activities.

The game also introduces a new battle system that emphasizes player choice, allowing players to decide how to approach each encounter.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is an action-adventure game developed and published by Rockstar Games. It is a prequel to 2010’s Red Dead Redemption and is set in 1899, at the end of the Wild West era.

Players control Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as they navigate the dangers and opportunities of the American frontier. The game features a vast open world, filled with various activities and missions, as well as realistic depictions of the American West, including towns, cities, and natural environments.

Red Dead Redemption 2’s attention to detail, immersive story, and memorable characters make it one of the best games of the 2010s.

The Witcher 3

The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt is an action role-playing game developed by CD Projekt RED. Players take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a witcher tasked with finding the child of prophecy in a vast open world filled with dangerous creatures and political intrigue.

The game boasts stunning graphics, a deep and engaging story, and a richly developed world. Combat is fast-paced and strategic, requiring players to make use of Geralt’s magical abilities and weapons.

With over 150 hours of content, players will find themselves immersed in the world of The Witcher 3, with memorable characters and a captivating story that will keep them engaged to the very end.

Persona 5

Persona 5 is a role-playing game developed by Atlus. Players take on the role of a high school student who is tasked with saving the city from corrupt individuals using the power of his Persona, a manifestation of his inner self.

The game is set in modern-day Tokyo and features a unique mix of turn-based combat, social simulation, and puzzle-solving.

Players must balance their time between school, jobs, and the Phantom Thieves of Hearts, a group of vigilantes who work to expose and defeat corrupt individuals. With its stylish visuals, engaging story, and memorable characters, Persona 5 has become a cult classic and a must-play for fans of the genre.

Undertale

Undertale is a unique indie game that combines elements of RPGs and bullet hell shooters. Players take on the role of a human who has fallen into the Underground, a realm inhabited by monsters.

The game features a branching narrative and multiple endings, with choices made by the player affecting the outcome of the story. The combat system is a mix of turn-based strategy and dodging mechanics, with the player having to outwit and outmaneuver the monsters in order to survive.

With its quirky humor, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay, Undertale has become a beloved indie game, garnering a large following among players and critics alike.

Journey

Journey is an emotional and atmospheric adventure game developed by Thatgamecompany. Players take on the role of a robed figure traveling through a vast and beautiful desert, with the goal of reaching a distant mountain.

The game is unique in that players can encounter and interact with other players online, with no communication other than gestures. The journey is a solitary one, with the player exploring the world and solving puzzles, but the presence of other players adds a sense of community and connection to the experience.

Journey is a stunning game, with breathtaking landscapes and a haunting musical score that creates an immersive and emotional experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Tom Clancy’s The Division 2

The Division 2 takes place in a post-apocalyptic Washington D.C. that has been devastated by a weaponized virus. The game’s cover-based action is set against this intriguing backdrop, as players bob and weave their way out of cover while shooting down increasingly challenging waves of enemies.

While the game’s story never quite matches the pace of the action, it still does a good job of taking players to a variety of post-apocalyptic locations.

As players progress through the game, they will accumulate tons of loot that will help them take on more challenging missions or participate in high-level PvP and PvE gameplay. The Division 2 offers an exciting and engaging experience that is a must-play for fans of post-apocalyptic games.

Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5)

Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5) is an open-world action-adventure video game developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games.

Released in 2013, it is set in the fictional state of San Andreas and follows three playable characters as they attempt to commit heists and survive against various criminal elements. The game is known for its engaging story, diverse characters, and incredible attention to detail in its world-building. Players can also engage in various side activities like golfing, yoga, and stock market manipulation.

GTA 5 received widespread critical acclaim and has sold over 140 million copies, making it one of the best-selling video games of all time.

Metal Gear Solid V – The Phantom Pain

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is an action-adventure stealth video game developed by Kojima Productions and published by Konami.

The game was released in 2015 and is the fifth main entry in the Metal Gear Solid series. Set in the 1980s, players control the mercenary leader Snake as he tries to unravel the mystery behind his traumatic past and the attack on his forces.

The game features extensive open-world environments, allowing players to choose their own approach to missions. The Phantom Pain received widespread critical acclaim and was praised for its refined gameplay mechanics, deep story, and strong characters.

Elden Ring

Elden Ring is an upcoming action role-playing video game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco. It was created in collaboration with famous dark fantasy author George R. R. Martin, and is set in a world filled with dangerous creatures and ancient magic.

The game features open-world exploration and a deep character customization system. Despite a lack of information about the game’s story, Elden Ring has generated a lot of excitement among fans of the action RPG genre, as well as fans of FromSoftware’s previous games like Dark Souls and Bloodborne.

Hades

Hades is an action role-playing video game developed and published by Supergiant Games. Released in 2020, the game takes place in the Underworld and follows the prince Zagreus as he tries to escape and meet his mother, Persephone.

The game features fast-paced, roguelike combat, and players must navigate through various procedurally generated levels, battling fierce monsters and building up their power.

Hades received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging storyline, strong characters, and tight gameplay mechanics, and was a commercial success, selling over two million copies in its first year.