In a world where live-service games and other online experiences are becoming increasingly the norm, there are fortunately still video games that can only be played solo. Among these titles are some real gems, some more recent than others, that have left their mark on an entire generation of gamers. It just goes to show that you don’t always need be with friends to have fun.
Today, single-player games come in many different forms. Some go for a linear format that lets them offer impressive scripted sequences, while others choose the traditional open world with plenty of possibilities. In any case, these games often emphasize their storylines and characters, some of which have since become iconic.
At a time when single-player games were the norm, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater made a lasting impression with its plot twists and some really charismatic protagonists. Among the classics of the format, we also find Shadow of the Colossus from the PS2 era, as well as BioShock: Infinite and Red Dead Redemption. This last one latter brought dozens of hours of adventure in a vast Wild West full of activities to the table.
And when it comes to solo experiences, it’s clear as a day that FromSotware knows how to do them. While the Japanese studio has now gone for coop titles, games such as Elden Ring and Bloodborne leave players alone to face adversity. There’s a feeling of constant threat in a dark fantasy universe that just doesn’t fall to captivate. In a different genre but with a similar high level of difficulty there’s Hollow Knight, which has managed to stand out.
Sometimes, open worlds that are as lively as they are teeming with things to do can give the impression of not being alone. Cyberpunk 2077, Ghost of Tsushima, Horizon Zero Dawn, Hogwarts Legacy, and the formidable The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom all shine bright with the freedom they offer to quench the players thirst for discovery. These games, which can last 50, 75, 100 hours or more, are filled to the brim with content. So much so that secrets can still be uncovered in these worlds several months after their release.
In any case, it’s virtually impossible to cover just how many single-player games are worth playing in 2025. Some even let you revisit classics such as Resident Evil 4 and Final Fantasy VII but with a twist, and there are some deep, emotional stories such as Ori and the Will of the Wisps and What Remains of Edith Finch. In any case, there are countless single-player titles that deserve to be played right away, be it with a big or small budget.
1. Shadow of the Colossus
- Available on PS4
2. Metro Exodus
- Available on PS4, Xbox One, and PC
3. Bioshock Infinite
- Available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC
4. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
- Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
5. Mafia: Definitive Edition
- Available on PS4, Xbox One, and PC
6. Red Dead Redemption
- Available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC
7. Elden Ring
- Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC
8. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
- Available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC
9. Divinity: Original Sin II
- Available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC
10. Titanfall 2
- Available on PS4, Xbox One, and PC
11. What Remains of Edith Finch
- Available on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, and PC
12. Yakuza: Like a Dragon
- Available on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC
13. Hollow Knight
- Available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC
14. Far Cry 5
- Available on PS4, Xbox One and PC
15. Bloodborne
- Available on PS4
16. Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
- Available on PS5, Xbox Series S|X and PC
17. Horizon Zero Dawn
- Available on PS4, PS5 and PC
18. God of War
- Available on PS4 and PC
19. Resident Evil 4
- Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox Series S|X and PC
20. Ghost of Tsushima
- Available on PS4, PS5 and PC
21. Hogwarts Legacy
- Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, Switch, Switch 2 and PC
22. Cyberpunk 2077
- Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, Switch, Switch 2 and PC
23. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
- Available on Switch and Switch 2
24. Hades
- Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, Switch and PC
25. Stardew Valley
- Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, Switch and PC
