One of the best is 'Half - Life 2'. It has an immersive story that takes you through a post - apocalyptic world. You play as Gordon Freeman, a scientist, and the game's narrative unfolds as you battle the Combine. The physics - based gameplay also adds to the overall experience.
Another great FPS with a story is 'BioShock'. Set in the underwater city of Rapture, it has a complex plot full of moral choices. The art deco style of the city and the various plasmids you can use make it stand out. The story delves into themes like objectivism and the consequences of extreme ideologies.
For PC, 'Wolfenstein: The New Order' is a great FPS game with a story. It's set in an alternate history where the Nazis won World War II. You play as B.J. Blazkowicz and fight against the Nazi regime. The story is full of action and drama. 'Crysis' has a story about an alien invasion on a tropical island. The FPS gameplay allows you to use the Nanosuit's abilities to your advantage. 'S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl' has a very atmospheric story set in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. The FPS combat is challenging as you face mutants and other threats in this desolate area.
'Wolfenstein: The New Order' is a top pick. It has a unique story set in an alternate history where the Nazis won World War II. You play as B.J. Blazkowicz, fighting against the Nazi regime. The story is full of twists and turns, and it combines action - heavy gameplay with a well - crafted narrative that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
'Metro: Exodus'. This game has a great post - apocalyptic story. You follow Artyom as he leads a group of survivors on a journey across the wastelands of Russia. The story is full of moral choices and survival challenges. The game's atmosphere, with its dark and gritty environments, really enhances the storytelling.
One of the top PC FPS games with a good story is 'System Shock 2'. It combines horror and FPS gameplay. The story involves a spaceship infested with mutants and an AI gone rogue. You have to survive and figure out what's going on. 'Titanfall 2' has an excellent single - player campaign story. You are a pilot who teams up with a Titan. The FPS action is fast and fluid, and the story has some great emotional moments. 'Dishonored' can also be considered. Although it's more of a stealth - FPS hybrid, the story about a wronged assassin seeking revenge in a steampunk city is very engaging.
Far Cry 3 has a compelling story. You play as Jason Brody, who is stranded on an island filled with pirates. As you fight to survive and rescue your friends, you gradually become more immersed in the island's power struggles and the dark secrets it holds. The game does a good job of showing your character's transformation from a naive tourist to a hardened fighter.
The Metro series, such as Metro 2033, offers a great story. It's set in a post - apocalyptic Moscow. You play as Artyom, and the game focuses on survival in a world overrun by mutants. The story delves into the relationships between the different factions in the metro tunnels, and there are moral choices that impact the outcome of the game.
One great option is 'Half - Life 2'. It has an immersive story set in a dystopian world. You play as Gordon Freeman, a scientist, and fight against the Combine. The story unfolds gradually as you progress through the levels, with interesting characters and a lot of mystery.
I think 'Titanfall 2' is also suitable for new players. The story follows a pilot and his Titan as they fight against an evil corporation. The bond between the pilot and the Titan is really well - portrayed, and the levels are designed in such a way that it's easy to follow the story while enjoying the fast - paced FPS action. The game also has some interesting twists and turns in the plot.
For beginners, 'Portal' is a great choice. It has a simple yet really interesting story. You play as Chell, and you're in a test facility with a sadistic AI named GLaDOS. The puzzles are integrated well with the story, and it's not too complex in terms of shooting mechanics. Another good one is 'F.E.A.R.'. It has a spooky story about a special forces team dealing with a supernatural threat. The controls are easy to pick up, and the story will keep you hooked.
Red Dead Redemption 2. Although it's also available on consoles, it's a great PC game. The story of Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang in the dying days of the Wild West is both tragic and beautiful. The game's world is detailed, and the characters are complex, with a story that explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the changing times.