Adventure games take players on exciting journeys filled with challenges, stories, and exploration. These games offer amazing worlds to discover and characters to meet along the way.
Looking at today’s top adventure games, open-world titles dominate the landscape. Red Dead Redemption 2 stands out as a fan favorite with its detailed Wild West setting. Players also love Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 for its web-swinging freedom and God of War for its mythological storytelling. The Witcher 3 continues to impress gamers with its rich fantasy world. For something different, classic adventures like Monkey Island and Grim Fandango offer clever puzzles and engaging stories in a more traditional format.
Best Adventure Games To Play This Spring On PC or Console (2025)
1. Dragon’s Dogma 2
- Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
- Why It’s Great: A massive open world filled with monsters, dynamic AI-driven companions, and intense combat.
- Key Features:
- Fully open world without loading zones
- Deep character customization
- Pawn system offering unique AI followers
- Challenging, weighty combat
Capcom’s long-awaited sequel takes the best elements of the original and polishes them to a mirror shine. The Pawn system lets you recruit AI companions that adapt and learn, and the world is brimming with secrets. Whether you’re hunting griffins or getting lost in dungeons, Dragon’s Dogma 2 feels like the perfect action-adventure RPG for the season.
2. Rise of the Ronin
- Platform: PS5
- Why It’s Great: Team Ninja’s samurai epic mixes historical drama with sprawling open-world adventure.
- Key Features:
- Set during Japan’s Bakumatsu period
- Open-world exploration with glider and horseback travel
- Choice-driven narrative with multiple factions
- Deep, fast-paced sword combat
Rise of the Ronin blends historical realism with Team Ninja’s combat expertise. You’ll engage in sword duels, explore Edo-era Japan, and make pivotal choices that shape the story’s outcome. If Ghost of Tsushima was your jam, this should be your next destination.
3. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
- Platform: PC, Xbox Series X|S
- Why It’s Great: A classic archaeological adventure starring everyone’s favorite fedora-wearing hero.
- Key Features:
- First-person and third-person gameplay mix
- Treasure-hunting puzzles and tomb raiding
- Set between Raiders and The Last Crusade
- Voice work by Troy Baker as Indy
MachineGames (the studio behind Wolfenstein) is bringing Indy back. It’s a globe-trotting, relic-hunting romp with Nazi-punching, ancient traps, and whip-cracking action. Expect puzzles that make you feel like an adventurer and cinematic storytelling to boot.
4. Tomb Raider Remastered I–III
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch
- Why It’s Great: Classic Lara Croft adventures with modern enhancements.
- Key Features:
- Visuals upgraded for modern consoles
- Toggle between original and remastered graphics
- All expansions included
- Updated controls (optional)
For those craving old-school adventure with modern polish, this collection lets you relive Lara’s earliest journeys. Whether it’s battling dinosaurs or uncovering ancient secrets, these classics still hold up—and now they look and play better than ever.
5. Little Devil Inside
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox One
- Why It’s Great: A quirky, stylish action-adventure RPG with survival elements.
- Key Features:
- Semi-open world exploration
- Tactical real-time combat
- Atmospheric and dynamic weather
- Survival mechanics (hunger, temperature)
After years in development, Little Devil Inside is finally launching this spring. It’s got a beautiful, almost toy-like world with deadly threats and charming oddities. Think Zelda meets Darkest Dungeon, but cuter—and deadlier.
6. South of Midnight
- Platform: PC, Xbox Series X|S
- Why It’s Great: A southern gothic action-adventure with stunning visuals and folklore-inspired monsters.
- Key Features:
- Third-person action with spell-based combat
- Deep South setting with eerie atmosphere
- Creature designs rooted in folklore
- Story-rich narrative
If you like atmospheric storytelling with a haunting vibe, South of Midnight looks like one of the most promising new IPs this year. It’s spooky without being horror, and its folklore creatures give it a fresh spin on the action-adventure genre.
7. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
- Platform: PC, Xbox Series X|S
- Why It’s Great: A mind-bending, cinematic journey through myth and madness.
- Key Features:
- Stunning photorealistic graphics
- Psychological storytelling with binaural audio
- Intense melee combat
- Deep Norse mythology themes
Ninja Theory’s sequel to Hellblade continues Senua’s harrowing story with upgraded visuals and deeper gameplay. It’s not just an action game—it’s a haunting psychological experience, and the Norse backdrop makes it perfect for dark spring nights.
8. The Plucky Squire
- Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch
- Why It’s Great: A playful adventure that blends 2D and 3D gameplay seamlessly.
- Key Features:
- Unique mechanic shifting between 2D and 3D worlds
- Storybook aesthetic
- Light platforming and puzzle-solving
- Charming, family-friendly tone
One moment you’re playing a 2D platformer inside a book; the next, you’re leaping into the 3D world around it. The Plucky Squire is a love letter to adventure games of all kinds and feels like a breath of fresh spring air.
9. Avowed
- Platform: PC, Xbox Series X|S
- Why It’s Great: Obsidian’s next big RPG set in the Pillars of Eternity universe.
- Key Features:
- First-person sword and sorcery combat
- Large open world with factions and branching quests
- Deep lore from Pillars of Eternity
- Player choice impacting the story
This is Obsidian’s answer to Skyrim. It’s got magic, swords, dialogue trees galore, and moral choices. Perfect for players who love getting lost in worlds rich with history and intrigue.
10. Star Wars Outlaws
- Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
- Why It’s Great: The first true open-world Star Wars game.
- Key Features:
- Play as scoundrel Kay Vess
- Massive planets with seamless space travel
- Stealth, blaster combat, and speeder chases
- Decisions that affect your reputation with syndicates
Coming later in the spring, this one’s a must-watch. It’s Star Wars like you’ve never played before—freedom to explore, steal, smuggle, and scheme across the Outer Rim. Perfect for a springtime space adventure.
Other Classics You Should Play
11) Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 stands as a landmark in adventure gaming. Released in 2018 by Rockstar Games, it’s the third entry in the Red Dead series and has earned its place among the most ambitious open-world games ever produced.
The game follows Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang in 1899 America. Players explore a vast, detailed world that responds to their choices and actions. The story unfolds naturally as you ride through forests, mountains, and towns.
Many players consider it one of the most immersive games ever made. The attention to detail is stunning – from mud gathering on your boots to your horse’s coat growing over time. Animals behave realistically, and townspeople remember your actions.
The game packs an extraordinary amount of content. Side quests feel meaningful and add depth to the world rather than serving as simple distractions. Even small encounters can lead to surprising stories.
Travel in RDR2 differs from many modern games. While fast travel exists, the game encourages players to experience the journey. This design choice enhances immersion but requires patience from players used to skipping travel time.
Combat feels weighty and impactful. The game’s gunplay captures the feel of old western firearms, with satisfying duels and shootouts. The slow-motion “Dead Eye” feature lets players target multiple enemies in quick succession.
Weather and day-night cycles affect gameplay in meaningful ways. A rainstorm isn’t just visual – it makes paths muddy and hunting more difficult. This attention to systems makes the world feel alive and responsive.
12) Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 stands out as one of the best games released in recent years. This action-adventure title combines thrilling gameplay with an engaging storyline.
Players control both Peter Parker and Miles Morales in this epic superhero adventure. The game lets fans switch between the two Spider-Men, each with unique skills and fighting styles.
The game’s version of New York City feels alive and packed with details. Web-swinging through the urban landscape remains smooth and fun, making travel between missions a joy rather than a chore.
Combat has been improved from earlier games. New moves and powers give players more options when fighting enemies. The addition of Venom-based powers adds fresh elements to battles.
The story mixes action with emotion in a way that fans will love. Characters face personal struggles alongside their superhero duties, creating a tale with both heart and excitement.
Visually, the game impresses with stunning graphics and smooth performance. Character models show fine details, and the city looks amazing in different weather and lighting conditions.
Side missions and activities keep players busy beyond the main story. Collecting items, stopping crimes, and helping citizens adds many hours of gameplay.
Critics agree that Spider-Man 2 is currently the best superhero video game experience. It captures the spirit of being Spider-Man while telling a compelling story about both heroes.
The PC version offers even better graphics than its PlayStation counterpart. Players with powerful computers can enjoy enhanced visuals and performance.
For anyone who loves adventure games, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 offers an experience that blends action, emotion, and thrilling gameplay. It sets a high bar for superhero games.
13) God of War
God of War stands as one of the most best AAA games of its generation. The 2018 reboot changed the series dramatically, moving from Greek to Norse mythology while adding depth to its main character.
The game follows Kratos and his son Atreus on a journey to spread the ashes of Kratos’ wife. This simple goal leads them through stunning landscapes and dangerous encounters with gods and monsters alike.
Combat in God of War feels weighty and powerful. Kratos’ Leviathan Axe can be thrown and called back at will, adding a new layer to the fighting system. Players can upgrade weapons and learn new skills as they progress.
The story shines by focusing on the father-son relationship between Kratos and Atreus. Their growth throughout the adventure creates emotional moments that weren’t present in earlier games.
Its sequel, God of War Ragnarok improves on the 2018 game in every way. It expands the world, adds new combat options, and continues the compelling story of Kratos and Atreus.
Both games feature some of the best boss fights in the series. These epic battles test players’ skills while pushing the story forward in meaningful ways.
The God of War series has evolved from simple hack-and-slash games to rich adventures with deep characters. The 2018 reboot and Ragnarok are often ranked as having the best stories in the franchise, combining action with genuine emotion.
14) The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the most awarded games of all time, collecting over 800 awards since its release. This game blends adventure and role-playing elements to create an experience many players find unforgettable.
Players control Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with special abilities. His quest to find his adopted daughter leads through a vast open world filled with dangers and moral choices.
The game’s strength lies in its storytelling. Each side quest feels important and well-crafted, not just busy work. Characters have depth and memorable personalities.
Combat in The Witcher 3 requires strategy. Players must prepare with potions, oils, and study monster weaknesses before big fights. This system adds depth beyond simple button mashing.
What makes this game special is its living, breathing world. The game world changes based on player choices. Towns, villages, and wild landscapes feel alive with activity and purpose.
The Witcher 3 also shines in its sense of humanity. Even small stories pack emotional weight. Players often face tough choices with no clear right answer.
The two expansion packs, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, add even more quality content. Blood and Wine offers an entire new region to explore.
While some fans of other RPGs like Oblivion or Skyrim might disagree, The Witcher 3 remains a benchmark for adventure games. Its mix of strong story, meaningful choices, and rich world-building creates an adventure that stays with players long after they finish.
15) Monkey Island
The Monkey Island series stands as one of the most beloved adventure game franchises ever created. Since its debut in 1990, these games have charmed players with clever puzzles, witty dialogue, and unforgettable characters.
At the heart of the series is Guybrush Threepwood, a bumbling pirate wannabe who somehow finds himself in incredible situations. His ongoing rivalry with the ghost pirate LeChuck forms the backbone of most games in the series.
Many fans consider Monkey Island 2: LeChuck’s Revenge the best adventure game ever made. It perfectly blends humor, challenging puzzles, and a surprising dark twist that still has players talking decades later.
The series includes six main games. Each brings its own charm to the table, though gamers often debate their ranking. Most lists place the first three titles among the strongest entries.
The Curse of Monkey Island introduced a new art style that many consider the visual high point of the series. Its colorful cartoon graphics and full voice acting brought the world to life in fresh ways.
The newest entry, Return to Monkey Island, pleased longtime fans when it launched in 2022. It reconnected with the series’ roots while adding modern touches to the gameplay.
What sets these games apart is their humor. Few adventure games match Monkey Island’s perfect blend of silly situations, clever wordplay, and running jokes like the famous insult sword fighting.
The puzzles remain smart and satisfying, often requiring creative thinking rather than brute force solutions. This balance of challenge and fun explains why the series continues to win new fans decades after its start.
16) Grim Fandango
Grim Fandango stands as one of the most beloved adventure games ever made. Released by LucasArts in 1998, it blends film noir with Mexican folklore in a unique way that still captivates players today.
The game follows Manny Calavera, a travel agent for the dead, as he uncovers corruption in the afterlife. Its story unfolds over four years, giving players a rich narrative that many fans still talk about decades later.
The setting mixes Art Deco and Mexican Day of the Dead themes. This creative mix helps Grim Fandango stand out from other games of its time and even now.
Rubacava, the second major area in the game, offers strong non-linear adventure gaming. Players can explore at their own pace and solve puzzles in different orders.
Many fans remember Grim Fandango not just as a great game but as the end of a golden era. It came out when point-and-click adventures were losing popularity to other game types.
The puzzles range from clever to challenging. Some might frustrate new players, but they fit well with the game’s quirky world and characters.
In 2015, a remastered version brought Grim Fandango to modern systems. This update added better graphics, sound, and controls while keeping the core game intact.
Critics widely praise the game, with many calling it one of the best games of all time. Its sharp writing, memorable characters, and unique style help it stand out even today.
Tim Schafer’s direction gave the game its special feel. His creative vision shaped everything from the dialogue to the world design.
17) Monster Hunter Wilds
Monster Hunter Wilds stands as the new peak of this long-running action RPG series. With combat that shines brighter than ever before, it builds on what made previous games great while adding fresh features.
The game brings a new wound system that changes how players fight monsters. By targeting specific body parts, hunters can deal extra damage and stagger the beasts more easily. This adds depth to each hunt without making things too complex.
Players have praised the storytelling in Wilds, calling it the best narrative in the series’ 20-year history. The plot keeps hunters engaged between the action-packed monster battles.
Some fans on Reddit have called it “the best monster hunter game they’ve ever made.” While there were some performance issues at launch, the core gameplay shines through.
The game builds on the success of Monster Hunter World, with critics noting it’s a worthy successor that players will enjoy for years. The rich environments and monster designs show great attention to detail.
New and returning monsters give plenty of challenge. Creatures like the Rompopolo and Nerscylla offer exciting gameplay opportunities for both new players and series veterans.
While not perfect, Wilds has all the pieces needed to become the best game in the franchise’s history. The mix of thrilling combat, stunning worlds, and improved story makes it a standout adventure game that’s hard to put down.
18) Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II stands out as a remarkable adventure game that builds upon its predecessor. This full-fledged RPG shows confidence in its approach to medieval realism and cinematic quality, making it a standout title for adventure seekers.
The game features excellent melee combat that demands your full attention during every encounter. Combat isn’t simple button mashing—it requires strategy and skill to master.
Players will find themselves immersed in an exceptional story that pulls you through a historically grounded medieval world. The narrative feels both personal and epic, giving weight to your character’s journey.
The game creates a systems-driven sandbox that resembles experiences found in games like STALKER. This design gives players freedom to approach situations in multiple ways.
Every need in the game requires consideration, from hunger to fatigue. These survival elements add depth to the adventure without becoming frustrating.
Critics have praised it as one of the most immersive games available today. The attention to historical detail creates a world that feels lived-in and real.
The brutal nature of the game means players face true challenges. Death comes quickly to the unprepared, making each victory feel earned and significant.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II isn’t just a sequel—it’s a coronation that elevates the series to new heights. It takes what worked in the first game and improves upon nearly every aspect.
19) Marvel Rivals
Marvel Rivals is a team-based PVP shooter that brings together famous Marvel heroes. Players can form squads with their favorite characters and battle against others online.
The game stands out in the hero shooter genre with its unique Team-Up mechanics. These allow players to combine different character powers for special strategies and attacks.
Players seem to love Marvel Rivals so far. One first-time player shared their excitement about how the game renewed their interest in hero shooters.
The game features a large roster of varied heroes. This gives players many options to fit different play styles and strategies.
Maps and game modes in Marvel Rivals have received positive feedback too. IGN’s review mentions solid maps and modes that add to the fun experience.
One of the best things about Marvel Rivals is its approach to seasonal content. Unlike many modern games, it doesn’t force players to grind forever. The passes and events are actually completable within reasonable time frames.
Some fans have strong feelings about the game. In Steam discussions, one player called it the best superhero game they’ve ever played.
Marvel Rivals is available on Steam for those who want to try it. The game encourages teamwork and clever use of hero abilities to win matches.
20) Baldur’s Gate III
Baldur’s Gate III has taken the gaming world by storm since its release. This fantasy RPG stands as a remarkable achievement in the genre, bringing the beloved Dungeons & Dragons ruleset to life in a vibrant digital form.
The game follows your custom character after they’re infected with a mind flayer parasite. This starting point sends players on a sprawling adventure across the Forgotten Realms. Your choices truly matter here, affecting both the story and your companions.
Speaking of companions, the cast in Baldur’s Gate III shines brightly. Each character comes with deep backstories and personal quests that unfold based on your actions and conversations. These relationships add emotional weight to your journey.
Combat blends turn-based strategy with D&D mechanics. You can push enemies off cliffs, set traps, or talk your way out of fights entirely. This freedom extends to solving quests, with multiple paths available for nearly every challenge.
The game’s visuals are stunning, from lush forests to dark dungeons. Voice acting is top-notch too, bringing life to conversations and cutscenes. Many players consider Baldur’s Gate III one of the best RPGs of recent years.
While opinions vary, some fans even debate if this might be the best RPG ever made. It certainly stands tall among critically acclaimed titles. The game has earned praise for its voice acting, story depth, and player freedom.
Players who enjoyed titles like Dragon Age or Divinity: Original Sin will find much to love here. The game offers dozens of hours of content, with high replay value thanks to different character classes and story choices.
History of Adventure Games
Adventure games have evolved from simple text-based experiences to complex interactive narratives over several decades. This transformation reflects both technological growth and changing player expectations.
Origins and Evolution
The adventure game genre began in the 1970s with “Colossal Cave Adventure,” a text-based game created by Will Crowther and later expanded by Don Woods. Players typed commands to move through a cave system and solve puzzles.
In the 1980s, companies like Sierra On-Line and LucasArts pushed the genre forward. Sierra’s “King’s Quest” series introduced graphics to adventure games, while LucasArts created classics like “Grim Fandango.”
The 1990s are often called the golden age of adventure games. Titles like “The Longest Journey” and “Broken Sword” featured improved storytelling and character development.
After a brief decline in the early 2000s, adventure games made a comeback through indie developers and studios like Telltale Games.
Technological Advancements
The shift from text to graphics marked the first major technological leap in adventure games. Early games used simple pixels, but technology soon allowed for more detailed environments.
Point-and-click interfaces replaced text commands, making games more accessible. This change helped bring adventure games to a wider audience.
CD-ROM technology in the 1990s allowed for full voice acting and video sequences. Games like “Gabriel Knight: The Beast Within” used full-motion video with real actors.
Modern adventure games like “Call of the Sea” and “The Case of the Golden Idol” use 3D graphics, advanced physics, and complex storytelling techniques.
Mobile platforms have also created new opportunities for adventure games, bringing the genre to players who might never use a computer or console.
Core Elements of Adventure Games
Adventure games stand out because of their unique mix of storytelling, character growth, and brain-teasers that keep players engaged. These games bring worlds to life through their rich stories and challenging puzzles.
Storyline and Narrative
A strong story forms the backbone of any great adventure game. The narrative needs to grab players and make them care about what happens next. The best adventure games create worlds that feel alive and worth exploring.
Good stories in these games often include:
- Clear goals that drive the player forward
- Plot twists that keep players guessing
- Meaningful choices that affect how the story unfolds
Players want to feel like they’re part of something special. When a game lets them explore various locations and see the outcomes of their choices, they become more invested in the journey.
The story doesn’t have to be complex, but it should be engaging enough to make players want to keep playing.
Character Development
Characters bring adventure games to life and give players someone to root for. Strong character growth happens when game heroes face challenges and change because of them.
The main character should have:
- Clear strengths and weaknesses
- Room to grow throughout the story
- A personal stake in the game’s events
Side characters matter too. They add depth to the world and can provide help, information, or create obstacles. When players meet interesting people in the game world, it makes exploration more rewarding.
Characters need personalities that stand out and make players remember them long after the game ends. Games like Uncharted and God of War show how powerful character-driven adventures can be.
Puzzles and Challenges
Puzzles give players a chance to feel clever and make progress through their own skills. Good puzzles fit naturally into the game world and make logical sense.
Effective adventure game puzzles include:
- Clear goals – Players should understand what they’re trying to accomplish
- Fair difficulty – Hard enough to be satisfying, but not frustrating
- Variety – Different types of challenges keep the game fresh
Wikipedia notes that puzzle-solving is one of the essential elements of adventure games. These puzzles can range from finding hidden objects to solving complex logic problems.
The best games include mechanics that build upon themselves, teaching players new skills and then asking them to use those skills in new ways. This creates a sense of growth and mastery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Adventure game fans often have specific questions about which titles are worth playing across different platforms. The gaming community rates certain titles more highly based on storytelling, gameplay mechanics, and overall experience.
What are the top-rated adventure games currently available for PS4?
The PS4 offers several outstanding adventure games. Red Dead Redemption 2 stands out with its vast open world and compelling story about outlaw Arthur Morgan.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 gives players the chance to swing through New York City while facing iconic villains. The game combines fluid movement mechanics with an emotional storyline.
God of War redefines the franchise with its father-son narrative and Norse mythology setting. Its combat system and character development earned it numerous awards.
Which adventure games come highly recommended on Android devices?
Android users can enjoy quality adventure games on the go. Many classic point-and-click adventures have been adapted for touch screens with updated controls.
Games like Monument Valley offer unique puzzle experiences with beautiful visuals that work perfectly on mobile. Telltale’s Walking Dead series also runs well on Android devices.
Square Enix has ported several Final Fantasy titles that provide deep storytelling experiences for mobile players.
What classic point and click adventure games are considered must-plays?
The Monkey Island series remains an essential experience for any adventure game fan. These games combine humor, clever puzzles, and memorable characters.
LucasArts classics like Grim Fandango and Day of the Tentacle showcase the golden age of point-and-click adventures. Their unique art styles and witty writing still hold up today.
Sierra’s King’s Quest and Space Quest series defined early adventure gaming with their challenging puzzles and text parser interfaces.
Can you list standout adventure games that have launched on the PC platform?
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers one of the most immersive RPG experiences with its rich storytelling and complex decision-making. The game’s expansive world and meaningful side quests set new standards.
Life is Strange presents players with time-manipulation mechanics wrapped in a coming-of-age story. Its focus on choices and consequences creates genuine emotional impact.
Disco Elysium pushes narrative boundaries with its unique skill system and philosophical themes. The game’s writing quality makes it stand out in the genre.
What adventure games for iOS deliver the best experience?
iOS devices host several excellent adventure games with touch-friendly interfaces. The Room series offers atmospheric puzzle-solving with beautiful visuals optimized for Apple devices.
Oxenfree brings supernatural teen drama to mobile with its distinctive dialogue system. The game runs smoothly on iOS and maintains its eerie atmosphere.
Florence delivers a short but powerful interactive story about relationships. Its intuitive controls work perfectly with the touch interface.
Are there any adventure titles for PS5 that have received critical acclaim?
Horizon Forbidden West showcases the PS5’s capabilities with stunning visuals and an expanded world. Aloy’s journey continues with new machines to fight and mysteries to uncover.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart uses the console’s SSD for instant dimension-hopping gameplay. This action-adventure title combines humor with impressive technical achievements.
Returnal blends roguelike elements with psychological horror for a unique adventure. Its challenging gameplay and mysterious story have earned praise from critics.
