There’s nothing quite like a good adventure game to get your heart racing. Whether you’re exploring a mysterious temple, solving puzzles in a haunted mansion, or uncovering secrets in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, adventure games offer a unique blend of excitement and intrigue that few other genres can match. Here are our picks for the top 10 PC adventure games of all time.
1. The Secret of Monkey Island
Released in 1990 by LucasArts, The Secret of Monkey Island is a classic adventure game that has stood the test of time. The game follows the adventures of Guybrush Threepwood, a young man who dreams of becoming a pirate. With its witty humor, engaging characters, and clever puzzles, The Secret of Monkey Island is a must-play for any adventure game fan.
2. Myst
Released in 1993 by Cyan, Myst is a groundbreaking adventure game that set the standard for puzzle-based gameplay. The game takes place on a mysterious island filled with intricate puzzles and hidden secrets. With its beautiful graphics, haunting soundtrack, and immersive world, Myst is a true masterpiece of the adventure game genre.
3. Grim Fandango
Released in 1998 by LucasArts, Grim Fandango is a noir-inspired adventure game set in the Land of the Dead. Players take on the role of Manny Calavera, a travel agent for the dead who uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the afterlife. With its unique setting, memorable characters, and engaging story, Grim Fandango is a must-play for any adventure game enthusiast.
4. The Longest Journey
Released in 1999 by Funcom, The Longest Journey is a sci-fi adventure game that takes place in two parallel worlds. Players take on the role of April Ryan, a young woman who discovers that she has the ability to travel between worlds. With its rich storytelling, memorable characters, and gorgeous graphics, The Longest Journey is a true classic of the adventure game genre.
5. Syberia
Released in 2002 by Microids, Syberia is a steampunk-inspired adventure game that takes players on a journey through the frozen wastelands of Siberia. Players take on the role of Kate Walker, a lawyer who travels to a remote village to finalize a business deal. With its stunning visuals, engaging story, and unique setting, Syberia is a must-play for any adventure game fan.
6. The Walking Dead
Released in 2012 by Telltale Games, The Walking Dead is a story-driven adventure game set in the world of the popular TV series and comic book. Players take on the role of Lee Everett, a convicted criminal who must protect a young girl named Clementine from the dangers of the zombie apocalypse. With its gripping story, memorable characters, and moral dilemmas, The Walking Dead is a must-play for any adventure game enthusiast.
7. Life is Strange
Released in 2015 by Dontnod Entertainment, Life is Strange is a coming-of-age adventure game that follows the story of a teenage girl named Maxine Caulfield. With her newfound ability to rewind time, Max must navigate the complexities of high school life while uncovering a dark conspiracy that threatens her hometown. With its relatable characters, emotional story, and unique gameplay mechanics, Life is Strange is a must-play for any adventure game fan.
8. Firewatch
Released in 2016 by Campo Santo, Firewatch is a first-person adventure game set in the Wyoming wilderness. Players take on the role of Henry, a fire lookout who must unravel the mysteries of the forest while dealing with personal issues in his own life. With its beautiful visuals, engaging story, and immersive world, Firewatch is a must-play for any adventure game enthusiast.
9. The Witness
Released in 2016 by Jonathan Blow, The Witness is a puzzle-based adventure game that takes place on a mysterious island filled with intricate puzzles. With its minimalist visuals, clever puzzles, and open world, The Witness is a true masterpiece of the adventure game genre.
10. What Remains of Edith Finch
Released in 2017 by Giant Sparrow, What Remains of Edith Finch is a story-driven adventure game that follows the story of a young woman named Edith Finch as she explores the mysteries of her family’s cursed history. With its emotional story, unique gameplay mechanics, and beautiful visuals, What Remains of Edith Finch is a must-play for any adventure game fan.