Top 10 Emotional Video Games

Top 10 Emotional Videogames

In some games, you shoot anything that moves. In others, you break down into heaving sobs because the game has figuratively ripped out your heart and showed it to you. Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we're counting down our picks for the top 10 emotional videogames.

For this list, we’re taking a look at games that take players on a roller coaster ride of emotion. Whether it’s eliminating beloved characters, destroying our favorite in-game worlds, or manipulating us to believe we were working toward one goal when it was really another. We’re going to try and avoid them as much as we can but since they’re really noteworthy moments in these games: Spoiler Alert

#10: “Mass Effect 3” (2012)

The final entry in BioWare's stunning space opera wasn't shy about revealing the harsh realities of war or the casualties as a result of the galaxy's conflict with the Reapers. If that weren’t depressing enough, players were forced to sort out some difficult decisions while facing the possibility of saying goodbye to beloved crew members. All that, and then multiple endings upon completion that didn’t quite work out in the optimal manner that Bioware wanted. Bummer.

#9: “Lost Odyssey” (2008)

If there were ever a tale designed to wring every single tear out of your body, it would be Kaim's. Everywhere this immortal swordsman travels, sadness follows. His journey to recall even a sliver of the memories he's lost over his lifetime is one that's wrought with despair, but the empathy he shows others despite his own personal struggle is admirable. We dare you to stay stone-faced during the text segments that recall Kaim's past.

#8: “Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots” (2008)

When Liquid Ocelot plots to dominate the world, Solid Snake is dispatched once again by Roy Campbell to take him out. Unfortunately, Snake’s accelerated aging has wracked his body as well as his health. It's sad to see the man who surpassed Big Boss don a special muscle suit just to get by, and the odds are consistently stacked against him. Simultaneously epic and heartbreaking, Snake’s final mission is a tearjerker up until the bitter end.

#7: “Halo: Reach” (2010)

From the beginning, you know the end. Before players suit up for the very first time, they already know what's waiting for them in this deeply personal Halo game. But that doesn't make things any less distressing. The Spartans who valiantly gave their all for the good of humanity are relatable and engaging characters, so it's heart-wrenching to play an active role in the last moments of their lives. Thank you for your sacrifice, Noble Team.

#6: “Heavy Rain” (2010)

Tracking down the deranged Origami Killer is a path wrought with despair, plot twists, and the extreme lengths one father would go to in order to save his child. Quantic Dream's neo-noir thriller places you at the forefront of the investigation, and whether you're father Ethan Mars or FBI profiler Norman Jayden, there are plenty of moments that'll have you turning your head away from the screen in disgust or total desperation.

#5: “To The Moon” (2011)

The Sigmund Corporation specializes in "wish fulfillment" services, and the dying Johnny Wyles has recruited them for a little assistance. Before he passes on, his dying wish is to go to the moon, though he can't quite remember why. With the help of two doctors he's able to live the life he's always dreamt of, though in doing so he unravels a rather heartbreaking past concerning his deceased wife River. Is someone cutting onions in here?

#4: “Final Fantasy VII” (1997)

Cloud Strife is a recently-recruited member of SOLDIER out to thwart the Shinra Corporation, until everything he knows to be true unravels around him. After some painful truths about his path come to light and he finds himself locked in combat with the nefarious Sephiroth, the game takes a turn for the distressing as Cloud fights to save all of humanity. Also, one of the most famous videogame deaths of all time transpires along the way. (Sephiroth stabs Aerith)

#3: “The Last of Us” (2013)

Joel and Ellie are survivors of a worldwide epidemic that's left society as we know it in shambles. After living through more than one man should ever have to, Joel presses on with his young companion, only to be caught in a vicious cycle of killing, regret, and loss. It's one of Naughty Dog's most moving pieces of entertainment, and one that’s sure to stick with you long after the credits roll.

#2: “Shadow of the Colossus” (2010)

This spiritual sequel to the equally gorgeous and heartrending Ico is a richly detailed and ornate journey that tasks you with felling one colossus after another. However, as each colossi fall, reality begins to unravel around you as you realize nothing is what it seems. It's all in a bid to save the girl that you love, but by the end of the game when the truth behind what you're actually doing is revealed, you'll be reduced to a quivering, emotional mess.


Before we get to the #1 spot, here are a few honorable mentions.


“The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening” (1993)

“Red Dead Redemption” (2010)

“Gears of War 2” (2008)

“Silent Hill 2” (2001)

#1: “The Walking Dead: Season One” (2012)

Telltale Games' stories following the popular zombie franchise are some of the saddest you'll ever see. Lee Everett's tale is the most memorable of all, given his close relationship with the adorable and plucky little Clementine. Of course, that just makes it all the more difficult when you're eventually faced with some tough decisions. Who survives is usually all up to you, but let's just say there are some things that you just can't change. Plus, you frequently don’t see it coming.


Do you agree with our list? What videogame had you blowing through boxes of Kleenex? For more tear-jerking Top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.