Great games don’t fade with time, they only grow more meaningful. Whether they challenged reflexes, stirred emotion, or built worlds worth escaping into, these titles left an undeniable mark. For men who grew up gaming or discovered it later in life, some releases became more than just play, they were defining experiences. Here are 20 games no man should have skipped. If you missed them, it’s never too late to catch up.
Bloodborne
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A picture of a player’s POV in the game
This gothic action RPG stands as one of the most atmospheric games ever made. Its haunting setting, punishing combat, and cryptic story built a cult following. Bloodborne demands patience, reflexes, and a taste for the macabre. It rewards persistence with deeply satisfying victories. The game’s aesthetic alone is unforgettable, making it a standout in modern gaming.
Titanfall 2
A rare FPS that balances tight gunplay with an emotionally gripping story. Titanfall 2’s campaign, particularly the bond between pilot and Titan, BT, is underrated brilliance. Its multiplayer still impresses with smooth mobility and smart map design. It never got the attention it deserved upon release, but those who played it never forgot. A hidden gem that deserves its due.
Sleeping Dogs
Set in a vibrant, fictional Hong Kong, Sleeping Dogs delivered compelling hand-to-hand combat and a gripping undercover cop storyline. Often described as the most underrated open-world game of its generation, it seamlessly mixes crime drama with martial arts action. The narrative depth surprised many. Its world was alive, gritty, and memorable. It remains a one-of-a-kind experience.
Control
A mind-bending narrative with a striking art direction. Control places players inside the Federal Bureau of Control, where nothing is as it seems. The shapeshifting building, telekinetic powers, and surreal storytelling make it an instant modern classic. It balances eerie tension with explosive action. A must-play for those who enjoy mystery and chaos.
Spec Ops: The Line
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A picture of a character’s POV
It looks like a typical shooter on the surface, but under that camouflage is a psychological gut-punch. Spec Ops: The Line forces players to question the nature of war and heroism. Its controversial story choices linger long after the credits roll. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s necessary. A bold take on the modern military genre.
Hollow Knight
This indie darling offers tight gameplay, deep lore, and a world dripping in atmosphere. Don’t let its 2D look fool you, Hollow Knight packs serious challenge and heart. Exploring Hallownest feels lonely, epic, and rewarding all at once. The level of polish and ambition is staggering for a small team. It’s a love letter to classic exploration games.
Metro Exodus
This post-apocalyptic shooter combines stealth, survival, and narrative choice. Metro Exodus expands its predecessor’s linear formula into large, semi-open areas filled with danger and beauty. Its emotional core lies in its characters, especially Artyom and Anna. The game balances bleakness with hope. It’s one of the most immersive survival shooters in recent memory.
Alan Wake
Part horror game, part psychological thriller, Alan Wake tells the story of a writer trapped in his own nightmare. Its episodic structure mimics a gripping TV series, with cliffhangers and twists. Light is your only weapon, and darkness your enemy. The setting, a Pacific Northwest town, oozes atmosphere. A suspenseful ride with literary flair.
The Saboteur
A World War II game with a twist, The Saboteur places you in Nazi-occupied France as a rogue Irishman fighting back. The game’s black-and-white-to-color visual style reflected your progress in freeing Paris. It blended stealth, driving, and action in a unique way. Though overlooked at release, it’s aged surprisingly well. A stylish war game unlike any other.
Dead Space (Remake or Original)
Whether it’s the original or the remake, Dead Space remains a masterclass in sci-fi horror. It’s claustrophobic, tense, and brutally violent, but in a way that serves the narrative. Isaac Clarke’s descent into madness is handled with care. Few games make isolation feel this visceral. A terrifying but brilliant experience.
Ghost of Tsushima
This samurai epic is a visual feast. From its wind-guided navigation to its emotional story about honor and sacrifice, it’s a love letter to classic Japanese cinema. Combat is smooth, the world is rich, and photo mode became its own obsession. It balances action with introspection. A must for fans of open-world storytelling.
Prey (2017)
Prey is an immersive sim that combines sci-fi, horror, and puzzle-solving in one sleek package. You’re trapped on a space station overrun by shapeshifting aliens, using creativity to survive. Its storytelling is layered and rewards exploration. The freedom to approach problems your way sets it apart. Prey is a thinking man’s shooter.
Yakuza 0
Crime, comedy, karaoke, Yakuza 0 has it all. It tells the origin story of Kazuma Kiryu and Majima in 1980s Japan with surprising emotional depth. The combat is wild, the side quests hilarious, and the story hits harder than expected. It’s a beat-’em-up with brains. A cult classic that’s earned its legacy.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance
Realistic medieval combat, historically grounded storytelling, and punishing mechanics make this RPG unlike any other. Kingdom Come trades magic for muddy realism. Its commitment to accuracy might frustrate some, but that’s what makes it unique. It’s a slow burn, but deeply rewarding. A true knight’s journey.
Outer Wilds
A mystery set in a doomed solar system, Outer Wilds is less about action and more about curiosity. You explore planets stuck in a time loop, uncovering the fate of an ancient alien race. It’s poignant, mind-bending, and filled with quiet wonder. It encourages you to observe, learn, and piece the puzzle together. A peaceful yet profound experience.
The Evil Within 2
Often overlooked, this survival horror sequel improves on everything from the original. It mixes open-ended level design with psychological horror and sharp combat. Sebastian’s journey to find his daughter becomes something more layered and emotional. It’s not just scary, it’s smart. A dark ride worth revisiting.
Dishonored 2
A stealth-action masterpiece that lets you play your way. Choose between Corvo or Emily and use supernatural powers to sneak, fight, or manipulate your way through a decaying empire. Every mission can unfold a dozen ways. Its art style and level design are top-tier. It rewards creativity like few others.
Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons
A short but powerful game that uses its mechanics to tell an emotional story. You control both brothers at once, solving puzzles that reflect their bond. There’s barely any dialogue, but the story hits hard. It’s about loss, love, and the strength of connection. Proof that gameplay can be storytelling.
A Plague Tale: Innocence
Set during the Black Death, this stealth adventure follows two siblings trying to survive a cruel, plague-ridden world. It blends horror, history, and heartfelt storytelling. The bond between Amicia and Hugo carries the narrative. Rats, knights, and inquisition make for unique obstacles. An emotional journey that lingers.
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