Discounted 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

Burly Men at Sea

A branching folktale misadventure about a trio of large, bearded fishermen. Shape a custom tale that begins again where it ends, through waters where lurk creatures from Scandinavian folklore.

Price -68% 3.08€
Rating 6.1
Release 29 Sep 2016

Quantum Break

From Remedy Entertainment, the masters of cinematic action games, comes Quantum Break, a time-amplified suspenseful blockbuster. The Quantum Break experience is part game, part live action show—where decisions in one dramatically affect the other.

Price -79% 7.81€
Rating 8.4
Release 29 Sep 2016

Virginia

Virginia is a single-player first-person thriller set in a small town with a secret. Experience a missing person investigation through the eyes of graduate FBI agent Anne Tarver.

Price -70% 3.00€
Rating 6.3
Release 22 Sep 2016

The Uncertain: Last Quiet Day

The Uncertain is an story-driven adventure game set in a post-apocalyptic world. Experience the mysterious vibe of each of carefully explored locations, solve diverse puzzles, make fateful decisions and discuss intriguing matters to find out the whole truth being kept from you.

Price -88% 1.00€
Rating 7.4
Release 22 Sep 2016

Mad Father

Witness the tale of a most foolish family. A remake of the classic horror exploration game makes its way to Steam.

Price -50% 4.09€
Rating 9.4
Release 22 Sep 2016

Pankapu

Pankapu is a narrative action-platformer that takes place in the dreams of Djaha’rell, a child troubled by a tragic incident. Upgrade your skills, find new competencies, switch your Aegis in real time in order to get rid of Nightmare's invasion.

Price -90% 1.19€
Rating 6.4
Release 21 Sep 2016

Cockroach Simulator

This game is about the hard life in the kitchen. In this unusual place many interests intertwine. But the only war between humans and cockroaches is truly epic and destructive.

Price -50% 1.49€
Rating 7.8
Release 16 Sep 2016

Dungeon Rushers

A Heroic-Parody tactical RPG combining dungeon crawler’s gameplay and turn-based fights. Dive in an off-beat universe, manage your team and craft mighty gear to equip them! Build your own dungeon by hiding traps and monsters in your galleries, then challenge other players to clean it!

Price -88% 1.86€
Rating 6.1
Release 06 Sep 2016

Curious Expedition

Curious Expedition is a roguelike expedition simulation set in the late 19th century. Together with famous personalities you will venture on unprecedented expeditions to regions never explored before for fame, science and treasures.

Price -90% 1.49€
Rating 8.8
Release 02 Sep 2016

Don't Disturb

Single-player puzzle adventure with a beautiful, distinctive art style and a genuinely emotional story. As a lonely dog wandering the afterlife searching for his dead master, 'Don't Disturb' explores traditional Asian views on death and the underworld.

Price -75% 1.00€
Rating 8.0
Release 01 Sep 2016

Titan Quest Anniversary Edition

For its 10 year anniversary, Titan Quest will shine in new splendour. This Anniversary Edition combines both Titan Quest and Titan Quest Immortal Throne in one game, and has been given a massive overhaul for the ultimate ARPG experience.

Price -86% 2.77€
Rating 8.9
Release 31 Aug 2016

Hue

Hue is a vibrant, award-winning puzzle-adventure, where you alter the world by changing its background colour.

Price -93% 1.00€
Rating 9.0
Release 30 Aug 2016

The Final Station

Travel by train through a dying world. Look after your passengers, keep your train operational, and make sure you can always reach the next station. Make your way through swarms of infected at each station. Explore mysterious and abandoned stations looking for supplies and survivors.

Price -85% 2.26€
Rating 8.5
Release 30 Aug 2016

The Turing Test

The Turing Test is a challenging first-person puzzle game set on Jupiter’s moon, Europa. You are Ava Turing, an engineer for the International Space Agency (ISA) sent to discover the cause behind the disappearance of the ground crew stationed there.

Price -78% 4.34€
Rating 8.5
Release 30 Aug 2016

Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura

Imagine a place of wonder, where magick and technology coexist in an uneasy balance, and an adventurer might just as easily wield a flintlock pistol as a flaming sword. Welcome to the land of Arcanum.

Price -35% 3.89€
Rating 8.5
Release 29 Aug 2016

Fernbus Simulator

The world of coach drivers awaits you! Drive along motorways and country roads to the bus stations in over 40 cities in Germany. Thanks to the cooperation with FlixBus and true-to-the-original MAN buses, you will experience the game world in a realistic way.

Price -68% 9.61€
Rating 7.3
Release 25 Aug 2016

The Hive

The Hive is a strategy game with RPG elements where you assume command as the insectoid hivemind. Build and expand your underground colony, harvest resources, and evolve your swarm using DNA. Will you survive in this hostile yet beautiful underworld?

Price -50% 9.99€
Rating 6.9
Release 25 Aug 2016

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided

Now an experienced covert operative, Adam Jensen is forced to operate in a world that has grown to despise his kind. Armed with a new arsenal of state-of-the-art weapons and augmentations, he must choose the right approach, along with who to trust, in order to unravel a vast worldwide conspiracy.

Price -87% 3.76€
Rating 7.5
Release 23 Aug 2016

ACE Academy

ACE Academy is a slice-of-life, story-centric comedy game with elements of dating-sim; fully voiced and extensively interactive!

Price -75% 4.87€
Rating 9.0
Release 22 Aug 2016

Enigmatis 3: The Shadow of Karkhala

Enigmatis 3: The Shadow of Karkhala is the final chapter in the blockbuster trilogy, an exciting detective story rife with adventure, puzzles, and ancient mystery. Follow the trail of a demonic preacher and unravel the secrets of Karkhala Peak!

Price -75% 3.69€
Rating 8.8
Release 11 Aug 2016

Doorways: Holy Mountains of Flesh

Doorways: Holy Mountains of Flesh is an Immersive Horror Adventure, featuring a Complex Story and Deep Atmosphere.

Price -60% 7.80€
Rating 7.5
Release 10 Aug 2016

CASE: Animatronics

CASE: Animatronics is a truly scary and challenging first-person stealth horror on PC. Control of the police department is in the hands of anonymous hacker. All exits are locked. Electricity is off. Metallic thumps are getting closer. Will you survive, Detective Bishop?

Price -86% 1.36€
Rating 8.1
Release 03 Aug 2016

ABZU

From the art director of Journey®, ABZÛ is a beautiful underwater adventure that evokes the dream of diving. Immerse yourself in a vibrant hidden world bursting with color and life as you descend into the heart of the ocean. But beware as you swim deeper as dangers lurk in the depths.

Price -79% 4.26€
Rating 9.1
Release 02 Aug 2016

This Is the Police

This Is the Police is a strategy/adventure game set in a city spiraling the drain. Taking the role of gritty Police Chief Jack Boyd, you'll dive into a deep story of crime and intrigue. Will Jack reach his retirement with a nice stack of bills, or will he end up broken ... or worse?

Price -82% 2.65€
Rating 8.1
Release 02 Aug 2016

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 April 19th 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 742,262 reviews of which 718,841 were positive and 23,421 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 121,788 peak concurrent players over the last day.
9.6
718,841
23,421

121,788
players

2. 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 709,021 reviews of which 653,299 were positive and 55,722 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. While seeing 35,189 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among story rich games based on player count.
9.1
653,299
55,722

35,189
players

3. Blue Prince

Welcome to Mt. Holly, where every dawn unveils a new mystery. Navigate through shifting corridors and ever-changing chambers in this genre-defying strategy puzzle adventure. But will your unpredictable path lead you to the rumored Room 46? Blue Prince is a puzzle, exploration and mystery game developed by Dogubomb and published by Raw Fury. Released on April 10th 2025 has received 2,515 reviews of which 2,080 were positive and 435 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. While seeing 14,628 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among story rich games based on player count.
8.0
2,080
435

14,628
players

4. 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 13,080 reviews of which 11,671 were positive and 1,409 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. With 13,905 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played story rich games.
8.7
11,671
1,409

13,905
players

5. 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 55,107 reviews of which 47,194 were positive and 7,913 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. With 9,989 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played story rich games.
8.4
47,194
7,913

9,989
players

6. Metro 2033 Redux

In 2013 the world was devastated by an apocalyptic event, annihilating almost all mankind and turning the Earth's surface into a poisonous wasteland. A handful of survivors took refuge in the depths of the Moscow underground, and human civilization entered a new Dark Age. The year is 2033. Metro 2033 Redux is a post-apocalyptic, fps and atmospheric game developed by 4A Games and published by Deep Silver. Released on August 27th 2014 has received 96,266 reviews of which 87,371 were positive and 8,895 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. With 9,746 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.0
87,371
8,895

9,746
players

7. 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 827,807 reviews of which 795,719 were positive and 32,088 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 8,698 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.5
795,719
32,088

8,698
players

8. Sultan's Game

The Sultan commands you to play a cruel game. Each week you draw a card, and have to complete its challenge within seven days. Forced to make dreadful choices to beat the Sultan’s Game and save your own life, you will have to find a way to survive not just the Game, but its consequences too. Sultan's Game is a rpg, simulation and adventure game developed by Double Cross and published by 2P Games. Released on March 30th 2025 has received 14,010 reviews of which 13,005 were positive and 1,005 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.0 out of 10. With 4,681 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.0
13,005
1,005

4,681
players

9. 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 239,857 reviews of which 221,654 were positive and 18,203 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. With 4,535 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.1
221,654
18,203

4,535
players

10. Ghost of Tsushima DIRECTOR'S CUT

A storm is coming. Venture into the complete Ghost of Tsushima DIRECTOR’S CUT on PC; forge your own path through this open-world action adventure and uncover its hidden wonders. Brought to you by Sucker Punch Productions, Nixxes Software and PlayStation Studios. Ghost of Tsushima DIRECTOR'S CUT is a action, open world and adventure game developed by Sucker Punch Productions and Nixxes Software and published by PlayStation Publishing LLC. Released on May 16th 2024 has received 62,617 reviews of which 58,690 were positive and 3,927 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. With 4,486 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played story rich games.
9.2
58,690
3,927

4,486
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 April 19th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted story rich games.

1. 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 1,925 reviews of which 1,347 were positive and 578 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
1,347
578

-97% 33.33€ 1.00€

2. 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 893 reviews of which 630 were positive and 263 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
630
263

-97% 44.33€ 1.33€

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 5,676 reviews of which 5,405 were positive and 271 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
5,405
271

-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 female protagonist game developed by Summerfall Studios and published by Humble Games. Released on August 09th 2023 has received 3,267 reviews of which 3,020 were positive and 247 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
3,020
247

-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 1,330 reviews of which 860 were positive and 470 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
860
470

-96% 29.25€ 1.17€

6. Beacon Pines

Beacon Pines is a cute and creepy adventure set within a mysterious book. Sneak out late, make new friends, uncover hidden truths, and collect words that will change the course of fate! Beacon Pines is a visual novel, story rich and emotional game developed by Hiding Spot and published by Fellow Traveller. Released on September 22nd 2022 has received 3,389 reviews of which 3,314 were positive and 75 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.4 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.
9.4
3,314
75

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

7. 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 12,707 reviews of which 12,026 were positive and 681 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 #7 position in the best deals for story rich games.
9.2
12,026
681

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

8. 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 7,821 reviews of which 7,266 were positive and 555 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9 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.
9
7,266
555

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

9. 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 701 reviews of which 605 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 #9 position in the best deals for story rich games.
8.1
605
96

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

10. 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 997 reviews of which 847 were positive and 150 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 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.
8.1
847
150

-95% 20.00€ 1.00€

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 April 19th 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 55,107 reviews of which 47,194 were positive and 7,913 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. With 9,989 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free story rich games on Steam.
8.4
47,194
7,913

9,989
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 1,918 reviews of which 1,803 were positive and 115 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 641, this story rich game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free story rich games on Steam.
9.0
1,803
115

641
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 168,720 reviews of which 162,295 were positive and 6,425 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 316, this story rich game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free story rich games on Steam.
9.5
162,295
6,425

316
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 75,216 reviews of which 71,328 were positive and 3,888 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 269 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
71,328
3,888

269
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 36,156 reviews of which 31,170 were positive and 4,986 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 194 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
31,170
4,986

194
players

6. 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 948 reviews of which 728 were positive and 220 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 out of 10. The game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
7.3
728
220

60
players

7. 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 13,615 reviews of which 11,258 were positive and 2,357 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 out of 10. The game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
8.1
11,258
2,357

49
players

8. 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 anime game developed and published by Leef 6010. Released on January 26th 2024 has received 6,184 reviews of which 6,128 were positive and 56 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. The game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
9.6
6,128
56

40
players

9. Return to campus

An open world school game, you can bully your classmates, collect protection fees, go to the supermarket to make zero-dollar purchases, or even blow up the school. Of course, you can also study hard and exchange ideas with your classmates. Return to campus is a casual, simulation and rpg game developed and published by 聂宇星. Released on January 12th 2025 has received 952 reviews of which 780 were positive and 172 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. The game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played free story rich games on Steam.
7.8
780
172

32
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, free to play and psychological horror game developed and published by Doctor Shinobi. Released on September 26th 2022 has received 14,818 reviews of which 14,422 were positive and 396 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
14,422
396

30
players