Far from describing a game with adventure in it (that would include a lot of games!), the adventure genre is loosely defined as one that emphasizes narrative and exploration over action, which may also rely on light puzzle mechanics. In other words, a game that doesn’t have enough simulation to be a sim, action to be an action title, puzzle-solving to be a puzzle game, and… you get the idea. Despite the nebulous classification, games in this genre are unambiguously incredible experiences, often exploring refreshing and fascinating concepts. Shooting for games that are rolling around in the zeitgeist right now, some of the genres’ towering giants are not listed here. However, for anyone looking to check out today’s great experiences, feel free to peruse our list of the best adventure games to play right now.
Stray
Lost and alone, you find yourself wandering the streets of a neon-drenched, robot-filled city. Oh, and you're a cat. Stray's feline protagonist first captured players' attention back in 2020 during Sony's Future of Gaming Show. Now, the creature's adorable antics have won it praise from critics and fans alike. The game's narrative centers around the titular stray, who just wants to reunite with its family after being trapped in a mysterious metropolis devoid of human life. Luckily, you won't be alone in this quest, as you soon stumble upon a friendly drone called B12 that can help you navigate your surroundings and communicate with the city's denizens. Stray only offers a handful of hours of playtime, but its intricate locale, clever platforming, and lovable main character earn it a spot on this list. | Our Review
Norco
Norco tells a gripping, sometimes disturbing, and often darkly humorous tale set in a surrealist take on Louisiana. You play as Kay, a young woman returning home after years away to deal with the passing of her estranged mother. Things take a turn for the bizarre when your brother goes missing and Kay stumbles upon a supernatural mystery and industrial conspiracy gripping the small town. Norco sports top-notch writing, memorable characters, and a fascinating world that injects its Deep South aesthetic with elements of sci-fi. Best of all, the point-and-click puzzles are enjoyable without becoming confusing, and the game provides plenty of guidance to keep players on track about what to do and what’s happening. Norco is an unforgettable Southern Gothic romp that adventure game fans shouldn’t miss. | Our Review
Before Your Eyes
Try not to blink. This truly unique title hit earlier this year and blew us away with its innovative and evocative take on storytelling. The game takes advantage of the player’s webcam and progresses by blinking your eyes. This distinctive mechanic is not just there for its own sake but actually supports the narrative in which you, as newly deceased Benjamin Brynn, look over the events of your life while being ferried to the afterlife. You force the game to jump through the protagonist’s personal history by blinking, even if you didn’t mean to. This creates an immersive sensation, unlike other titles where you are experiencing these flashbacks the way the main character really would and sometimes wishing it hadn’t gone by so quickly. | Our Review
Doki Doki Literature Club Plus
An updated version of Team Salvato’s 2017 release, Doki Doki Literature Club Plus gives players the school-boy tale of love and literature with enhanced visuals, fresh side story missions, even more music, and over 100 images to unlock. Despite the game’s cute, dating sim veneer, Doki Doki Literature Club Plus isn’t all bubblegum and rainbows like it would have you believe. It is easy to spoil for those who haven’t experienced it, but if you know you are sensitive to certain scenarios, please check here for further information on accessing content warnings in the game. Anyone ready to jump in can look forward to writing some poetry, meeting the adorably drawn characters, and shockingly unexpected revelations.