How do you feel about the role of emotional storytelling in video games?

[Killamtropp44]

Emotional storytelling in video games has become a powerful way to immerse players in narratives that linger long after finishing a title. From heart-wrenching farewells to inspiring journeys of personal growth, these moments can evoke empathy and reflection. But do emotional beats sometimes feel forced or manipulative? Is it possible that an overemphasis on tugging at the heartstrings undermines gameplay or sacrifices subtlety? I’ve experienced titles where character arcs truly moved me, yet others felt like cheesy plot devices. What role should emotional storytelling play in gaming? Share examples of games that nailed it or those that missed the mark.

 

[TopSilver]

I always wish they would make Halo's story more deep and meaningful like it was in Halo: CE and Halo 2. Even Halo 3 had a really good story. Back then in Halo 2, seeing the arbitor and master chief join forces on the same side along with the overall nature of the game to stop aliens and actually succeed really touched my heart so much I was moved to tears. Unfortunately there hasn't been a single game to move me to tears since. You just can't imagine how it felt saving the planet from aliens. I'm hoping they find a game just like it in the future or do better in their future development in Halo because now it's not nearly as heart felt.

 

[B.F.G]

I always wish they would make Halo's story more deep and meaningful like it was in Halo: CE and Halo 2. Even Halo 3 had a really good story. Back then in Halo 2, seeing the arbitor and master chief join forces on the same side along with the overall nature of the game to stop aliens and actually succeed really touched my heart so much I was moved to tears. Unfortunately there hasn't been a single game to move me to tears since. You just can't imagine how it felt saving the planet from aliens. I'm hoping they find a game just like it in the future or do better in their future development in Halo because now it's not nearly as heart felt.

I totally agree if you seen the halo episode you would nearly feel heart broken all for something that involves from a germ in the right conditions. Watch out what can come up from your toilet.

 

[Killamtropp44]

I always wish they would make Halo's story more deep and meaningful like it was in Halo: CE and Halo 2. Even Halo 3 had a really good story. Back then in Halo 2, seeing the arbitor and master chief join forces on the same side along with the overall nature of the game to stop aliens and actually succeed really touched my heart so much I was moved to tears. Unfortunately there hasn't been a single game to move me to tears since. You just can't imagine how it felt saving the planet from aliens. I'm hoping they find a game just like it in the future or do better in their future development in Halo because now it's not nearly as heart felt.

I agree with you completely about Halo. The storytelling has really taken a nosedive ever since Halo 3 and they've even retconned certain things lore-wise in more recent games which makes the story a more confusing mess now.