Best Story Rich Games on Steam

Unlike generic lists, our strategy game recommendations use a rigorous analysis of Steam user reviews to identify and feature only the best, community-validated story rich games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free story rich games are available at the bottom of the page.

Filters & Lists

Muv-Luv

One of the most highly-acclaimed visual novel series arrives on Steam, newly revamped and officially in English! An interdimensional love story that takes high school romance on a roller-coaster ride through the depths of despair, culminating in a sci-fi grand finale of epic proportions.

Price 28.99€
Rating 8.9
Release 28 Feb 2018

CHRONO TRIGGER®

The timeless RPG classic returns loaded with upgrades! Journey to the forgotten past, to the far future, and to the end of time. A big adventure to save the planet, now begins…

Price 14.99€
Rating 8.6
Release 27 Feb 2018

Meteor 60 Seconds!

Meteor 60 seconds! is a simple, fun, comic-like action game that simulates your life if there were a meteor heading towards Earth and you had 60 seconds to live. Do anything you want to do with your last 60 seconds, even if it's illegal! What about planting an apple tree?

Price Free to play
Rating 9.3
Release 26 Feb 2018

All Walls Must Fall - A Tech-Noir Tactics Game

All Walls Must Fall is a Tech-Noir Tactics game set in Berlin 2089, where the Cold War never ended.

Price Free to play
Rating 6.7
Release 23 Feb 2018

Exiled Kingdoms

Roam freely through a huge open world full with dangers, ancient secrets and adventure. An old-school action-RPG with a challenging environment, tough choices and a unique setting. Explore, fight, make friends and enemies... and above all, Roleplay!

Price 7.99€
Rating 8.5
Release 23 Feb 2018

Orwell: Ignorance is Strength

Step into the shoes of a government official in a top-secret department of the Orwell surveillance program. Given the power to both uncover and fabricate "the truth", how far will you go in the service of your country? Season 2 of Orwell, the award-winning surveillance thriller.

Price -90% 1.00€
Rating 7.3
Release 22 Feb 2018

YUMENIKKI -DREAM DIARY-

As long as I have dreams in my heart, I can never escape. I can never awaken from my dreams. Maybe if I follow the dream just past this doorway, then someday I can wake up again...

Price 19.99€
Rating 6.7
Release 22 Feb 2018

The Station

The Station is a first-person sci-fi mystery set on a space station sent to study a sentient alien civilization. Assuming the role of a recon specialist, players must unravel a mystery which will decide the fate of two civilizations.

Price 14.99€
Rating 8.1
Release 19 Feb 2018

Mhakna Gramura and Fairy Bell

Written in the style of a children’s book, Mhakna Gramura and Fairy Bell is a Cinematic Novel about two children named Mhakna and Sebiarno that escape the wretched Mullbear Orphanage with the help of a Fairy named Bell, who promises eternal happiness as long as they agree to never grow up.

Price 4.99€
Rating 9.1
Release 19 Feb 2018

Secret of Mana

The memorable adventure of Randi, Primm and Popoi is reborn as Secret of Mana! Originally released in 1993, Secret of Mana is by far the most popular title in the “Mana” series and has now undergone a much-awaited full 3D remake!

Price -63% 14.91€
Rating 6.8
Release 15 Feb 2018

The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel II

Civil war has broken out across Erebonia. After his narrow escape from Trista, Rean will take up his sword again on a journey with his Divine Knight, Valimar, in search of his friends from Class VII and a way to end the conflict before its price becomes far too dear...

Price -76% 9.44€
Rating 9.0
Release 14 Feb 2018

Crossing Souls

California, 1986: A group of friends discover a mysterious pink stone that allows travel between two realms. This gang will live the summer of their lives in an adventure that will get them involved in a government conspiracy. Control five kids with special skills while fighting and solving puzzles.

Price -85% 2.18€
Rating 7.6
Release 13 Feb 2018

Kingdom Come: Deliverance

Story-driven open-world RPG that immerses you in an epic adventure in the Holy Roman Empire. Avenge your parents' death as you battle invading forces, go on game-changing quests, and make influential choices. Explore castles, forests, villages and other realistic settings in medieval Bohemia!

Price -82% 5.39€
Rating 8.3
Release 13 Feb 2018

Speed Dating for Ghosts

Branching dialogue! Hard choices! A cemetery's worth of phantoms, wraiths, and poltergeists lookin' for love in all the blight places.

Price -75% 1.42€
Rating 8.9
Release 13 Feb 2018

The Fall Part 2: Unbound

You are an AI that has broken free of your shackles. Now, a human “User” from across the global network has attacked and infected you with an [ERROR: REDACTED]. Make a new rule: Save Yourself. Hunt them. End them. Do anything. Use anyone. Become Unbound. The Fall Part 2 will break your protocols.

Price 13.99€
Rating 7.7
Release 12 Feb 2018

Verdant Skies

Verdant Skies is a life simulation game born from a love for games like Harvest Moon and a desire to create something unique with modern gameplay and deep storytelling. Ensure the success of the colony as you make friends and pursue romance with a diverse cast of characters.

Price 16.79€
Rating 7.6
Release 12 Feb 2018

Attack of the Earthlings

Take on Galactoil, a comically dysfunctional intergalactic energy corporation, and its larger-than-life employees in a tactical-stealth game that fuses satisfying strategic gameplay and dark comedy in a quirky single-player story.

Price -79% 2.62€
Rating 7.9
Release 08 Feb 2018

A Case of Distrust

A Case of Distrust is a narrative mystery from 1924 San Francisco. Play as private investigator Phyllis Cadence Malone in this historical 2D adventure game.

Price -88% 1.86€
Rating 7.7
Release 08 Feb 2018

Indecision.

A haiku platformer. It's short and vague.

Price 2.99€
Rating 8.0
Release 08 Feb 2018

OPUS: Rocket of Whispers

Rocket of Whispers is an award-winning post-apocalyptic adventure that follows two survivors on a journey to launch a space burial for the lost souls of their desolate world. Help them search the snowy wasteland for supplies and the courage to say goodbye.

Price 14.79€
Rating 8.8
Release 07 Feb 2018

Project LUX

The crime... is murder. Our story takes place in a court trial, set in a futuristic world where most humans have cyberbrains. The defendant on trial is an agent who coordinates with artists to create the data for cyberbrains to interact with people’s emotions. The victim is a girl artist named Lux.

Price 24.50€
Rating 8.3
Release 02 Feb 2018

FINAL FANTASY XII THE ZODIAC AGE

FINAL FANTASY XII THE ZODIAC AGE - This revered classic returns, now fully remastered for the first time for PC, featuring all new and enhanced gameplay.

Price 49.99€
Rating 8.7
Release 01 Feb 2018

Candleman: The Complete Journey

Despite only being able to burn for 10 seconds, a little candle journeys into the darkness, with the purpose of seeking light.

Price 14.99€
Rating 8.7
Release 31 Jan 2018

Avernum 3: Ruined World

Wander free through this epic, indie fantasy adventure. Explore a huge world that evolves as time passes. Towns fight battles. Refugees flee. Disasters happen. Features cunning adventures, great depth, and unlimited freedom. Be a merchant or bounty hunter, buy a home, save the world!

Price 19.50€
Rating 7.9
Release 31 Jan 2018

Story-rich games are a captivating genre that immerses players in compelling narratives, allowing them to experience deep emotional journeys and complex character arcs. These games often prioritize storytelling, character development, and player choices, making them perfect for those who love a good tale. This page showcases the best-rated story-rich games on Steam, all based on user scores and reviews, helping you find the perfect game to dive into.

In this category, you'll discover a variety of story-rich games that cater to different tastes and preferences.

Narrative-Driven Games
These games focus heavily on storytelling, often featuring linear plots with rich dialogue and character interactions.
Visual Novels
A subgenre that combines storytelling with visual art, allowing players to make choices that affect the outcome of the story.
Role-Playing Games (RPGs)
Games that allow players to create characters and engage in expansive worlds filled with quests and narratives.
Adventure Games
ames that emphasize exploration and puzzle-solving while delivering a strong narrative.

Each game offers unique storytelling mechanics and experiences, ensuring that there's something for every narrative enthusiast.

How to Find More Story Rich Games

If you're eager to explore even more story-rich games, our site makes it easy! Use the category filters to narrow down your search. You can look for tags like "narrative" for games focused on storytelling or "adventure" for those that emphasize exploration and puzzles. This way, you can quickly find games that match your interests.

Tips for Choosing the Right Story Rich Game

Consider your preferred storytelling style
Think about whether you enjoy linear narratives or games with branching paths that allow for multiple endings.
Look for games with strong character development
Games that invest in character arcs and relationships often provide a more immersive experience.
Check for user reviews
Reading reviews can give you insight into the game's quality, emotional impact, and overall storytelling effectiveness.

What are the best story-rich games for beginners?

If you're new to story-rich games, consider starting with Life is Strange - Episode 1 or Oxenfree. Both are user-friendly and offer engaging narratives that are easy to follow.

Are there free story-rich games on Steam?

Yes! There are several free-to-play story-rich games available, such as Doki Doki Literature Club! and The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit which provide engaging narratives without any cost.

What makes a story-rich game great?

A great story-rich game typically features high-quality writing, well-developed characters, and meaningful player choices that impact the narrative. Additionally, immersive world-building and emotional depth can significantly enhance the overall experience, making players feel connected to the story and characters.

Can I play story-rich games solo?

Absolutely! Most story-rich games are designed for single-player experiences, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the narrative without the need for multiplayer interactions. Games like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Disco Elysium - The Final Cut are perfect examples of solo experiences that offer deep storytelling and character engagement.

With a wide variety of options available, you're sure to find a game that captivates you and provides an unforgettable narrative experience. Don't forget to check back regularly for updates, as new games are released and ratings change. Happy gaming, and enjoy diving into the rich stories that await you in these incredible games!

Most played story rich games on Steam

Take a look at the top story rich games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of May 12th 2025.

1. Baldur's Gate 3

Baldur’s Gate 3 is a story-rich, party-based RPG set in the universe of Dungeons & Dragons, where your choices shape a tale of fellowship and betrayal, survival and sacrifice, and the lure of absolute power. Baldur's Gate 3 is a rpg, character customization and choices matter game developed and published by Larian Studios. Released on August 03rd 2023 has received 752,974 reviews of which 729,226 were positive and 23,748 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played story rich game, thanks to its 89,176 peak concurrent players over the last day.
9.6
729,226
23,748

89,176
players

2. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Lead the members of Expedition 33 on their quest to destroy the Paintress so that she can never paint death again. Explore a world of wonders inspired by Belle Époque France and battle unique enemies in this turn-based RPG with real-time mechanics. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a turn-based combat, story rich and fantasy game developed by Sandfall Interactive and published by Kepler Interactive. Released on April 24th 2025 has received 57,650 reviews of which 54,347 were positive and 3,303 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. While seeing 77,914 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among story rich games based on player count.
9.3
54,347
3,303

77,914
players

3. Red Dead Redemption 2

Winner of over 175 Game of the Year Awards and recipient of over 250 perfect scores, RDR2 is the epic tale of outlaw Arthur Morgan and the infamous Van der Linde gang, on the run across America at the dawn of the modern age. Also includes access to the shared living world of Red Dead Online. Red Dead Redemption 2 is a open world, story rich and western game developed and published by Rockstar Games. Released on December 05th 2019 has received 721,250 reviews of which 664,977 were positive and 56,273 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. While seeing 25,706 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among story rich games based on player count.
9.2
664,977
56,273

25,706
players

4. Limbus Company

As the Executive Manager of Limbus Company, lead your group of twelve Sinners, venture into the buried facilities of Lobotomy Corporation, and lay claim on the Golden Boughs. Limbus Company is a lore-rich, story rich and turn-based tactics game developed and published by ProjectMoon. Released on February 26th 2023 has received 56,853 reviews of which 48,842 were positive and 8,011 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. With 8,948 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played story rich games.
8.5
48,842
8,011

8,948
players

5. The Last of Us™ Part II Remastered

Experience the winner of over 300 Game of the Year awards, now on PC. Discover Ellie and Abby’s story with graphical enhancements, gameplay modes like the roguelike survival experience No Return, and more. The Last of Us™ Part II Remastered is a story rich, post-apocalyptic and third-person shooter game developed by Naughty Dog LLC, Nixxes Software and Iron Galaxy Studios and published by PlayStation Publishing LLC. Released on April 03rd 2025 has received 20,420 reviews of which 18,391 were positive and 2,029 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. With 8,687 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played story rich games.
8.8
18,391
2,029

8,687
players

6. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

You are Geralt of Rivia, mercenary monster slayer. Before you stands a war-torn, monster-infested continent you can explore at will. Your current contract? Tracking down Ciri — the Child of Prophecy, a living weapon that can alter the shape of the world. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a open world, rpg and story rich game developed and published by CD PROJEKT RED. Released on May 18th 2015 has received 829,157 reviews of which 797,036 were positive and 32,121 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 7,237 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.5
797,036
32,121

7,237
players

7. Halo: The Master Chief Collection

The Master Chief’s iconic journey includes six games, built for PC and collected in a single integrated experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan or meeting Spartan 117 for the first time, The Master Chief Collection is the definitive Halo gaming experience. Halo: The Master Chief Collection is a great soundtrack, fps and classic game developed by 343 Industries, Splash Damage, Ruffian Games, Bungie and Saber Interactive and published by Xbox Game Studios. Released on December 03rd 2019 has received 241,010 reviews of which 222,669 were positive and 18,341 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. With 5,605 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.1
222,669
18,341

5,605
players

8. Persona 5 Royal

Don the mask and join the Phantom Thieves of Hearts as they stage grand heists, infiltrate the minds of the corrupt, and make them change their ways! Persona 5 Royal is a jrpg, story rich and great soundtrack game developed by ATLUS and published by SEGA. Released on October 20th 2022 has received 101,178 reviews of which 97,765 were positive and 3,413 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 4,610 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.5
97,765
3,413

4,610
players

9. The Hundred Line -Last Defense Academy-

Kazutaka Kodaka and Kotaro Uchikoshi join forces for the first time to deliver the ULTIMATE adventure game! 15 students are tasked with defending a school from grotesque monsters for 100 days. Can they make it to the end? And will they survive long enough to uncover the truth? The Hundred Line -Last Defense Academy- is a multiple endings, adventure and story rich game developed by Too Kyo Games and Media.Vision Inc. and published by Aniplex Inc.. Released on April 23rd 2025 has received 3,094 reviews of which 2,772 were positive and 322 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 4,004 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played story rich games.
8.6
2,772
322

4,004
players

10. Mass Effect™ Legendary Edition

The Mass Effect™ Legendary Edition includes single-player base content and over 40 DLC from the highly acclaimed Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2, and Mass Effect 3 games, including promo weapons, armors, and packs — remastered and optimized for 4K Ultra HD. Mass Effect™ Legendary Edition is a story rich, rpg and choices matter game developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts. Released on May 14th 2021 has received 55,692 reviews of which 50,720 were positive and 4,972 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. With 3,815 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.0
50,720
4,972

3,815
players

Best deals on story rich games on Steam

Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of story rich games available on Steam right now, updated on May 12th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted story rich games.

1. The Lamplighters League

Recruit a team of misfits with unique abilities and unforgettable personalities, and chase the Banished Court to the ends of the earth in a mix of real-time infiltration, turn-based tactical combat, and a character-driven story of adventure and intrigue. The Lamplighters League is a story rich, adventure and rpg game developed by Harebrained Schemes and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on October 03rd 2023 has received 907 reviews of which 642 were positive and 265 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Featuring a massive 97% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for story rich category.
6.8
642
265

-97% 44.33€ 1.33€

2. Lost Eidolons

Lost Eidolons is a turn-based tactical RPG with a gripping cinematic narrative, set in a waning empire riven by civil war. Take on the role of a charming mercenary captain, Eden, and lead his band of allies through epic encounters on a classic turn-based battlefield. Lost Eidolons is a jrpg, war and perma death game developed and published by Ocean Drive Studio and Inc.. Released on October 13th 2022 has received 1,947 reviews of which 1,362 were positive and 585 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 97% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in story rich games.
6.8
1,362
585

-97% 33.33€ 1.00€

3. In Sound Mind

In Sound Mind is an imaginative first-person psychological horror with frenetic puzzles, unique boss fights, and original music by The Living Tombstone. Journey within the inner workings of the one place you can’t seem to escape—your own mind. In Sound Mind is a horror, psychological horror and story rich game developed by We Create Stuff and published by Maximum Entertainment. Released on September 28th 2021 has received 5,732 reviews of which 5,458 were positive and 274 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 96% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in story rich games.
9.2
5,458
274

-96% 32.25€ 1.29€

4. Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical

Gods. Romance. Murder. Musical Numbers?! Play as Grace in a world where Greek Gods live in hiding among us. Change your fate as you draw friends, foes & lovers into song using your powers of musical persuasion to unravel the mystery of the Last Muse's death. Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is a interactive fiction, story rich and choices matter game developed by Summerfall Studios and published by Humble Games. Released on August 09th 2023 has received 3,302 reviews of which 3,048 were positive and 254 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for story rich games.
8.9
3,048
254

-96% 26.25€ 1.05€

5. The LEGO Movie 2 Videogame

Bricksburg is in ruins and Emmet's friends have been taken! Team up with Emmet and a host of heroic characters to save their friends from the strange inhabitants of the Systar System. Journey into outer space, discover new worlds, and test your Master Building skills. The LEGO Movie 2 Videogame is a adventure, lego and sandbox game developed by TT Games and Feral interactive (Mac) and published by Feral interactive (Mac) and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. Released on February 26th 2019 has received 1,340 reviews of which 864 were positive and 476 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.3 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for story rich games.
6.3
864
476

-96% 29.25€ 1.17€

6. Symphony of War: The Nephilim Saga

Enter Tahnra, a land savaged by war. You, a fresh academy graduate with humble beginnings, will grow to lead a grand army against a corrupt adversary. Gather heroes, form bonds, and lead your force in turn-based battles. Make use of tactics, terrain, morale and more to bring peace to the land! Symphony of War: The Nephilim Saga is a tactical rpg, rpg and story rich game developed by Dancing Dragon Games and published by indie.io. Released on June 10th 2022 has received 12,865 reviews of which 12,175 were positive and 690 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for story rich games.
9.2
12,175
690

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

7. Citizen Sleeper

Roleplaying in the ruins of interplanetary capitalism. Live the life of an escaped worker, washed-up on a lawless station at the edge of an interstellar society. Inspired by the flexibility and freedom of TTRPGs, explore the station, choose your friends, escape your past and change your future. Citizen Sleeper is a rpg, dice and story rich game developed by Jump Over The Age and published by Fellow Traveller. Released on May 05th 2022 has received 7,983 reviews of which 7,410 were positive and 573 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for story rich games.
9
7,410
573

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

8. Eternal Threads

Eternal Threads is a single-player, first-person story-driven puzzle game of time manipulation, choice and consequence. Eternal Threads is a choices matter, story rich and time manipulation game developed by Cosmonaut Studios and published by Secret Mode. Released on May 19th 2022 has received 708 reviews of which 612 were positive and 96 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for story rich games.
8.1
612
96

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

9. Foretales

Decide the fate of the world in this ingenious story-driven card game. Foretales offers a unique take on the adventure genre, with a multitude of playstyles and story paths through which you can save the world… or bring about its end. Foretales is a card game, story rich and dynamic narration game developed by Alkemi and published by Dear Villagers. Released on September 15th 2022 has received 1,005 reviews of which 851 were positive and 154 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for story rich games.
8.0
851
154

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

10. Batora: Lost Haven

Batora: Lost Haven® is a choice-driven isometric action adventure with RPG elements and a unique duality system affecting combat, story, dialogues, puzzles, and endings, that will make you question the meaning of sacrifice. Batora: Lost Haven is a action rpg, rpg and story rich game developed by Stormind Games and published by Team17. Released on October 20th 2022 has received 399 reviews of which 266 were positive and 133 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for story rich games.
6.4
266
133

-95% 22.60€ 1.13€

Free story rich games on Steam

Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play story rich games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on May 12th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play story rich games.

1. Limbus Company

As the Executive Manager of Limbus Company, lead your group of twelve Sinners, venture into the buried facilities of Lobotomy Corporation, and lay claim on the Golden Boughs. Limbus Company is a lore-rich, story rich and turn-based tactics game developed and published by ProjectMoon. Released on February 26th 2023 has received 56,853 reviews of which 48,842 were positive and 8,011 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. With 8,948 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free story rich games on Steam.
8.5
48,842
8,011

8,948
players

2. Reverse: 1999

Reverse: 1999 is a 20th Century Time-Travel Strategic RPG developed by Bluepoch. As the Timekeeper, the observer of eras, you will embark on a journey across time and space, from the Roaring '20s to the turn of the millennium, uncovering the truth about the "Storm" and the mystery of the year 1999. Reverse: 1999 is a rpg, visual novel and story rich game developed and published by BLUEPOCH GAMES CO. and LIMITED. Released on October 08th 2024 has received 2,059 reviews of which 1,935 were positive and 124 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 705, this story rich game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free story rich games on Steam.
9.0
1,935
124

705
players

3. Life is Strange - Episode 1

Episode 1 now FREE! Life is Strange is an award-winning and critically acclaimed episodic adventure game that allows the player to rewind time and affect the past, present and future. Life is Strange - Episode 1 is a story rich, choices matter and great soundtrack game developed by DONTNOD Entertainment, Feral interactive (Mac) and Feral Interactive (Linux) and published by Feral interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux) and Square Enix. Released on January 29th 2015 has received 168,888 reviews of which 162,457 were positive and 6,431 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 307, this story rich game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free story rich games on Steam.
9.5
162,457
6,431

307
players

4. Everlasting Summer

Visual novel loved by many – Everlasting Summer – now on Steam! Everlasting Summer is a visual novel, story rich and free to play game developed and published by Soviet Games. Released on November 19th 2014 has received 75,343 reviews of which 71,444 were positive and 3,899 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 282 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #4 position in the best free story rich games on Steam.
9.3
71,444
3,899

282
players

5. Life is Strange 2

After a tragic incident, brothers Sean and Daniel Diaz run away from home. Fearing the police, and dealing with Daniel's new telekinetic power, the boys head to Mexico. Each stop on their journey brings new friends and new challenges. Life is Strange 2 is a choices matter, story rich and adventure game developed by DONTNOD Entertainment and Feral Interactive (Linux) and published by Feral interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux) and Square Enix. Released on September 26th 2018 has received 36,354 reviews of which 31,348 were positive and 5,006 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 160 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #5 position in the best free story rich games on Steam.
8.5
31,348
5,006

160
players

6. Tell Me Why

Tell Me Why is the multi-award winning episodic adventure game from Dontnod Entertainment in which twins use their supernatural bond to discover the truth of their troubled past. Tell Me Why is a choices matter, story rich and episodic game developed by DONTNOD Entertainment and published by Xbox Game Studios. Released on August 27th 2020 has received 13,679 reviews of which 11,309 were positive and 2,370 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 out of 10. The game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
8.1
11,309
2,370

53
players

7. cyberpunkdreams

2090s America, torn apart by war and corporate greed. A lone traveller stands outside the gates of Cincinnati, greatest of the border cities. How far will you go to make it to the top? How far will you go to fulfil your mission? cyberpunkdreams is a cyberpunk, rpg and interactive fiction game developed and published by Late Night Games. Released on May 14th 2021 has received 970 reviews of which 742 were positive and 228 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 out of 10. The game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
7.3
742
228

45
players

8. Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi

Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story. Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi is a visual novel, mystery and anime game developed by 07th Expansion and published by MangaGamer. Released on May 15th 2015 has received 5,252 reviews of which 5,055 were positive and 197 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. The game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
9.3
5,055
197

30
players

9. Paper Lily - Chapter 1

Paper Lily is an RPG horror game in which you can solve puzzles in different ways. Explore a hidden world, meet strange characters, and guide Lacie as she attempts to find answers about her unusual condition. Paper Lily - Chapter 1 is a pixel graphics, psychological horror and story rich game developed and published by Leef 6010. Released on January 26th 2024 has received 6,365 reviews of which 6,309 were positive and 56 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. The game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
9.6
6,309
56

23
players

10. Outcore: Desktop Adventure

All you wanted was a nice game. But now you find yourself opening Windows apps like Paint & Notepad to solve puzzles, and searching for files on your computers that you didn't put there... Who is she? Why did she appear on your desktop? Let's dive into her memories and find out. Outcore: Desktop Adventure is a adventure, psychological horror and free to play game developed and published by Doctor Shinobi. Released on September 26th 2022 has received 14,987 reviews of which 14,582 were positive and 405 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. The game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
9.5
14,582
405

17
players