10 Best Linear Single Player Story Games

In a world filled with open-world titles and online multiplayer experiences, there’s something uniquely satisfying about a good linear single-player story game. These games offer crafted narratives, gripping gameplay, and unforgettable moments, allowing players to experience immersive stories without distractions. Whether you’re a fan of explosive action, emotional journeys, or intricate storytelling, the following ten games are some of the best linear single-player story experiences that deserve a spot in your gaming library.

Note: This list does not represent any ranking system.

1. Titanfall 2

Respawn Entertainment’s Titanfall 2 may have been overshadowed by other first-person shooters, but its single-player campaign is a masterclass in pacing and level design. The story revolves around rifleman Jack Cooper and his journey with a loyal Titan named BT-7274. The relationship between Jack and BT, coupled with inventive level design (like the time-shifting level in “Effect and Cause”), makes this one of the best linear single-player story games you can play. Short but impactful, Titanfall 2 is a must-play for anyone who loves narrative-driven shooters.

2. BioShock Infinite

With its mind-bending story and stunningly realized world, BioShock Infinite took players to the floating city of Columbia. Players control Booker DeWitt, a former Pinkerton agent tasked with rescuing a mysterious girl named Elizabeth. Together, they unravel secrets about Columbia’s leaders, time rifts, and Booker’s own haunting past. The combination of philosophical undertones, a gripping storyline, and a twisty ending make BioShock Infinite an unforgettable experience.

3. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

Naughty Dog’s Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End is Nathan Drake’s swan song, filled with high-stakes treasure hunts, breathtaking visuals, and an emotionally resonant story. This adventure follows Drake as he’s drawn back into his old life by the reappearance of his estranged brother, Sam. The game’s narrative is deeply personal and mature, exploring themes of loyalty, love, and sacrifice. The tight narrative, coupled with thrilling action sequences, makes Uncharted 4 a staple in the genre of linear single-player story games.

4. Max Payne 3

Max Payne 3 takes the series in a bold new direction. Set in São Paulo, Brazil, the story follows a worn-out Max, now a private security guard, as he’s drawn back into the world of violence and betrayal. Max Payne 3 combines intense, cinematic gunplay with Max’s tragic story, making it a dark but gripping experience. Its signature “bullet-time” mechanics and the gritty noir-inspired storytelling are perfect for fans of mature, character-driven games.

5. Devil May Cry 5

In Devil May Cry 5, players control three unique protagonists—Dante, Nero, and the enigmatic V. Each character brings their own style to the fast-paced, hack-and-slash gameplay. The story sees the trio facing down a demonic threat that threatens humanity. While DMC5 is known for its stylish combat, its story, filled with family ties, revenge, and redemption, makes it more than just another action game. It’s a great example of a linear game that keeps players engaged with both its story and mechanics.

6. Spec Ops: The Line

Spec Ops: The Line is a game that challenges traditional shooter narratives, exploring themes of morality, PTSD, and the horrors of war. Set in a sandstorm-ravaged Dubai, the story follows Captain Martin Walker as he’s sent to rescue a lost American battalion. The deeper he delves into Dubai’s ruins, the more he and his team face moral and psychological crises. Spec Ops: The Line is unique in its narrative approach, making it one of the best linear single-player story games for those seeking thought-provoking storytelling.

7. DOOM Eternal

DOOM Eternal doesn’t hold back with its relentless action and brutal combat, but it also brings a surprising amount of lore and story for those who pay attention. The game puts players in the shoes of the Doom Slayer, an unstoppable force fighting against the demonic hordes threatening humanity. The narrative explores the Slayer’s origins and the war between Hell and Earth, adding a fascinating layer of depth to the game’s fast-paced action. If you want a linear shooter with high-octane gameplay and an interesting storyline, DOOM Eternal is a fantastic choice.

8. American Arcadia

American Arcadia offers a unique mix of action and story, taking players on a thought-provoking journey. Set in a retro-futuristic world where citizens unknowingly participate in a reality show, the protagonist begins to question the world around him, leading to an intense and thrilling escape. This indie gem combines a unique concept with engaging gameplay, making it a memorable addition to the genre of linear single-player story games.

9. A Plague Tale: Innocence

Asobo Studio’s A Plague Tale: Innocence immerses players in the harrowing story of two siblings, Amicia and Hugo, as they navigate war-torn France amidst the Black Death. The story follows their attempts to survive both human and supernatural threats, with their bond at the narrative’s core. The combination of stealth gameplay, a haunting atmosphere, and emotional storytelling creates a unique experience. If you’re looking for a slower-paced, emotionally charged game, A Plague Tale is a must-play.

10. Tomb Raider Reboot Trilogy

The Tomb Raider reboot trilogy, starting with Tomb Raider (2013), reinvents Lara Croft as a young and inexperienced adventurer. Across Tomb Raider, Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, players follow Lara’s journey from a survivor to a hardened explorer. Each game builds on the previous one, with a tightly woven storyline that keeps players engaged from start to finish. The trilogy combines intense action, puzzle-solving, and deep character development, making it one of the best linear single-player story game series available.

Conclusion

These ten titles represent the pinnacle of linear single-player story games, offering narratives and gameplay that keep players glued to their screens. Whether it’s exploring dystopian cities, battling demons, or surviving a plague, each game provides a memorable experience that stands out in the gaming world. If you’re looking for gripping storylines and tight, crafted gameplay experiences, these games should be at the top of your list.