In the vast landscape of PlayStation 4 gaming, linear games hold a special place for enthusiasts seeking immersive storytelling, engaging narratives, and carefully crafted experiences. Unlike open-world games that offer boundless exploration, linear games guide players through a meticulously designed narrative, delivering captivating storylines and memorable characters. In this blog, we will explore the top 10 linear games for PS4, each offering a unique and unforgettable journey.
What are linear games for PS4?
Linear games for PS4 are video games that follow a structured narrative path, guiding players through a predetermined storyline with limited deviation. These games offer a more focused and directed experience, often presenting a carefully crafted story with specific objectives and sequences to progress through.
Unlike open-world games that provide extensive freedom and exploration, linear games prioritize storytelling, character development, and scripted sequences. Players typically follow a linear progression, moving from one story segment or level to the next, with minimal backtracking or open-ended choices.
Linear games on the PS4 offer immersive narratives, cinematic presentation, and engaging gameplay mechanics that drive the story forward. They often feature richly detailed environments, compelling characters, and emotional journeys that captivate players.
While linear games may have limited player agency compared to open-world titles, their strength lies in delivering tightly paced narratives, well-defined character arcs, and memorable moments. They provide a curated experience, carefully guiding players through a cohesive story while presenting opportunities for intense action, exploration, and puzzle-solving.
Linear games for PS4 have showcased exceptional examples of this genre, with titles like The Last of Us Remastered, God of War, Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End, and Horizon Zero Dawn offering thrilling adventures and captivating storytelling within a linear structure.
In summary, linear games for PS4 offer curated and narrative-driven experiences, taking players on captivating journeys through well-constructed storylines, memorable characters, and immersive gameplay.
Top 10 linear games for PS4
The Last of Us Remastered:
The Last of Us Remastered is a video game developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It is an enhanced version of the original game, The Last of Us, which was released for the PlayStation 3 in 2013. The Last of Us Remastered was released exclusively for the PlayStation 4 in July 2014.
The game takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where players control Joel, a smuggler tasked with escorting a young girl named Ellie across a dangerous United States devastated by a fungal infection that turns people into hostile creatures. The gameplay combines elements of action-adventure, survival horror, and stealth, with players navigating through environments, engaging in combat, and solving puzzles.
The Last of Us Remastered includes improved graphics, higher resolution textures, and other technical enhancements compared to the original PlayStation 3 version. It also includes the single-player expansion, “Left Behind,” which delves into Ellie’s backstory, as well as the “Grounded” difficulty mode, which offers a greater challenge to experienced players.
The game received critical acclaim for its narrative, characters, and gameplay mechanics. It won numerous Game of the Year awards and has been praised for its emotional storytelling and immersive atmosphere. The Last of Us Remastered has since become one of the best-selling PlayStation 4 games and a beloved title among gamers.
God of War:
God of War (2018) is a critically acclaimed action-adventure video game developed by Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It serves as a soft reboot of the God of War series, departing from its Greek mythology roots and introducing a new setting inspired by Norse mythology.
The game features an older and more mature Kratos, who now resides in the realm of Midgard. He embarks on a journey with his son Atreus to fulfill his wife’s final wish and scatter her ashes atop the highest peak in the nine realms. Throughout their adventure, Kratos and Atreus face various mythological creatures and gods while uncovering the secrets of Kratos’ past.
One notable change in this installment is the gameplay perspective. The previous games were presented in a fixed camera angle, while God of War (2018) adopts a third-person, over-the-shoulder camera, similar to many modern action-adventure games. The combat system has also been revamped to provide a more intimate and tactical experience, with Kratos utilizing his Leviathan Axe and shield, as well as hand-to-hand combat.
The game received widespread acclaim for its storytelling, character development, visuals, and gameplay. The narrative explores the relationship between Kratos and Atreus, delving into themes of fatherhood, redemption, and the consequences of one’s actions. God of War (2018) won numerous awards, including Game of the Year, and has become one of the highest-rated PlayStation 4 games.
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End:
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End is an action-adventure game developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It is the fourth main installment in the Uncharted series and serves as the conclusion to the story arc of Nathan Drake, the series’ protagonist.
In Uncharted 4, players once again assume the role of Nathan Drake, a retired treasure hunter who is pulled back into the world of adventure when his long-lost brother, Sam, reappears and asks for his help in finding a pirate treasure called the Libertalia. The game takes players on a globetrotting journey, from exotic locations to lush jungles, as they unravel the mystery and face off against ruthless enemies.
The gameplay of Uncharted 4 combines exploration, platforming, and third-person shooter mechanics. Players navigate through beautifully crafted environments, solve puzzles, engage in cover-based gunfights, and experience thrilling set-piece moments. The game also introduces new features, such as a grappling hook that allows for more vertical traversal and enhanced stealth mechanics.
Uncharted 4 received widespread acclaim from critics and players alike. It was praised for its stunning visuals, compelling storytelling, well-developed characters, and polished gameplay mechanics. The game was celebrated for its emotional depth and exploration of themes like family, loyalty, and the cost of pursuing one’s desires.
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End was released exclusively for the PlayStation 4 in May 2016. It became one of the best-selling games on the platform and won numerous awards, including Game of the Year. The success of the game led to the development of a standalone expansion called Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, featuring different protagonists within the Uncharted universe.
Horizon Zero Dawn:
Horizon Zero Dawn is an open-world action role-playing game developed by Guerrilla Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It was initially released exclusively for the PlayStation 4 in 2017, and later became available for Microsoft Windows in 2020.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Horizon Zero Dawn takes place in a future where humanity has regressed to a primitive tribal society while robotic creatures roam the land. Players control Aloy, a skilled hunter and archer, as she embarks on a quest to uncover her own origins and the mysteries of the ancient world. The game features a vast and visually stunning open world, filled with diverse environments and wildlife.
Gameplay in Horizon Zero Dawn revolves around exploration, combat, and strategic use of weapons and traps. Aloy can engage in both ranged and melee combat, using a variety of weapons and gadgets to defeat both human enemies and the robotic creatures known as “machines.” The game also incorporates elements of stealth, allowing players to plan their attacks and exploit the weaknesses of their enemies.
One of the notable features of Horizon Zero Dawn is its rich narrative and world-building. The game offers a compelling story that gradually unveils the secrets of its post-apocalyptic setting and the history of the old civilization. Aloy encounters various factions, engages in quests, and interacts with a range of well-developed characters.
Horizon Zero Dawn was met with critical acclaim upon its release, praised for its stunning visuals, immersive gameplay, engaging story, and strong female protagonist. It received multiple Game of the Year awards and has been hailed as one of the best games of its generation. Its success has led to a highly anticipated sequel, Horizon Forbidden West, which is scheduled for release on the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles.
Detroit: Become Human:
Detroit: Become Human is an interactive drama and action-adventure game developed by Quantic Dream and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It was released exclusively for the PlayStation 4 in 2018 and later became available for Microsoft Windows in 2019.
In Detroit: Become Human, players control three android protagonists: Connor, Markus, and Kara. The game is set in a futuristic version of Detroit, where androids have become a common part of society. The story revolves around themes of artificial intelligence, humanity, and morality, as players make choices that impact the narrative and determine the fate of the characters.
The gameplay in Detroit: Become Human is focused on decision-making and branching narratives. Players guide the characters through a series of interactive scenes, where they must choose dialogue options, perform actions, and solve puzzles. The choices made by players can lead to different storylines and outcomes, providing a high degree of replayability.
The game tackles various social and ethical issues, such as discrimination, civil rights, and the nature of consciousness. The narrative explores the struggles and emotions of the android protagonists as they navigate a world where their existence is both desired and feared by humans. The branching storylines and multiple endings allow players to shape the direction of the game’s narrative.
Detroit: Become Human received positive reviews for its gripping story, compelling characters, and stunning visuals. Critics praised its branching narrative structure, which offers meaningful choices and consequences. The game’s themes and thought-provoking storytelling were also well-received, and it was considered a standout title in the interactive drama genre.
Spider-Man:
Spider-Man is an action-adventure video game developed by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It was released exclusively for the PlayStation 4 in 2018.
In the game, players take on the role of Peter Parker, also known as Spider-Man, as he navigates the bustling city of New York and fights crime to protect its citizens. The story follows an experienced Spider-Man who faces off against iconic villains while dealing with personal and professional challenges.
The gameplay in Spider-Man revolves around traversing the open-world cityscape using Spider-Man’s web-slinging abilities. Players can swing between buildings, run along walls, and perform acrobatic moves to navigate the environment quickly and efficiently. The combat system combines fluid melee combat with the use of Spider-Man’s web-based gadgets, allowing players to perform combos and utilize various strategies in battles.
Throughout the game, players encounter familiar characters from the Spider-Man universe, including Mary Jane Watson, Miles Morales, and classic villains like the Kingpin, Doctor Octopus, and the Sinister Six. The game offers a blend of scripted story missions and optional activities, such as side quests, challenges, and collectibles, providing a variety of gameplay experiences.
Spider-Man received critical acclaim for its engaging story, well-crafted characters, polished gameplay mechanics, and impressive visuals. The game was praised for capturing the essence of being Spider-Man and delivering an authentic superhero experience. It became one of the best-selling PlayStation 4 games and was hailed as one of the greatest superhero video games ever made.
In addition to the original game, an expansion titled “Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales” was released as a standalone title for the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles in 2020. It continues the story, focusing on Miles Morales as he embraces his own role as Spider-Man.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt:
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an action role-playing game developed by CD Projekt Red. It was released in 2015 for various platforms, including PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows.
Set in a vast open world inspired by the fantasy book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher 3 follows the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter known as a Witcher. Players control Geralt as he embarks on a quest to find his adopted daughter, Ciri, while navigating a war-torn land and dealing with political intrigue.
The gameplay in The Witcher 3 combines exploration, combat, and role-playing elements. Players can freely traverse the open world, taking on various quests, engaging in combat with a diverse range of creatures, and making choices that impact the storyline and the game world. Geralt possesses a variety of combat skills, magical abilities, and alchemical concoctions that can be used strategically in battles.
The game features a rich and immersive narrative, filled with complex characters, branching storylines, and morally ambiguous choices. Players’ decisions and actions throughout the game can lead to different outcomes and consequences, shaping the world and characters’ fates. The Witcher 3 also includes two substantial expansion packs, “Hearts of Stone” and “Blood and Wine,” which add new areas to explore, quests, and characters.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt received widespread critical acclaim, earning numerous Game of the Year awards and praise for its deep storytelling, memorable characters, immersive world, and detailed graphics. The game is known for its attention to detail, complex quests, and the vastness of its open world, offering players hundreds of hours of gameplay and a truly epic adventure.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice:
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a psychological action-adventure game developed and published by Ninja Theory. It was initially released in 2017 for PlayStation 4 and Microsoft Windows, and later made available for other platforms.
The game tells the story of Senua, a Celtic warrior who embarks on a harrowing journey through a mythological Viking realm to rescue the soul of her dead lover. What makes Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice unique is its focus on mental health and the portrayal of Senua’s personal struggles with psychosis. The game delves into the depths of Senua’s mind, offering players a deeply emotional and atmospheric experience.
Gameplay in Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense melee combat. Players guide Senua through haunting and otherworldly environments while engaging in visceral and challenging battles against otherworldly entities. The combat system emphasizes timing, precision, and strategic use of Senua’s abilities.
One of the standout features of Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is its dedication to portraying mental health issues with empathy and accuracy. The developers worked closely with neuroscientists and people who have experienced psychosis to create a realistic representation of Senua’s condition. The game incorporates auditory hallucinations, visual distortions, and other elements to immerse players in Senua’s world and provide a unique perspective on her journey.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice received critical acclaim for its captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and powerful performance by its lead actress, Melina Juergens. The game’s portrayal of mental health issues was widely praised for its sensitivity and authenticity. It received multiple awards, including recognition for its narrative, audio design, and technical achievements.
Until Dawn:
Until Dawn is an interactive survival horror game developed by Supermassive Games and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It was released exclusively for the PlayStation 4 in 2015.
The game takes place in a remote mountain lodge where a group of eight friends gathers for a vacation. However, their peaceful getaway quickly turns into a nightmarish ordeal as they find themselves stalked by a mysterious and deadly presence. Players control each of the eight characters throughout the game, making choices that affect their relationships, actions, and ultimately their survival.
Gameplay in Until Dawn focuses on narrative-driven decision-making and branching storylines. Players must navigate through the lodge and its surrounding areas, making choices during critical moments that can determine the fate of the characters. Quick-time events and exploration sequences also play a role in the gameplay, adding tension and suspense to the experience.
The game’s unique feature is the “Butterfly Effect” system, which tracks the player’s choices and their consequences, shaping the narrative accordingly. Each decision made by the player can have significant ramifications, leading to multiple branching paths and possible outcomes. This mechanic adds a layer of replayability as players can try different choices to uncover the various story possibilities.
Until Dawn received positive reviews for its engaging storyline, atmospheric setting, and strong performances by its cast. The game was praised for its cinematic presentation, well-executed scares, and the tension it creates. It successfully captured the essence of classic slasher horror movies, providing players with a thrilling and interactive horror experience.
If you enjoy Until Dawn, you may also be interested in other narrative-driven games developed by Supermassive Games, such as “The Dark Pictures Anthology,” which includes titles like “Man of Medan” and “Little Hope.” These games follow a similar structure, allowing players to make choices that shape the story and influence the fate of the characters.
Ratchet & Clank:
Ratchet & Clank is a long-running series of action-platformer video games developed by Insomniac Games. The series features a combination of humor, exploration, and dynamic combat, set in a science fiction universe.
The games follow the adventures of Ratchet, a Lombax mechanic, and Clank, a small, intelligent robot. Together, they traverse different planets, battle enemies, and embark on quests to save the galaxy from various threats. The duo encounters a colorful cast of characters, acquires powerful weapons and gadgets, and solves puzzles throughout their journeys.
Gameplay in the Ratchet & Clank series typically includes platforming challenges, combat encounters, and exploration of diverse environments. Players control Ratchet in third-person perspective, utilizing his arsenal of unique weapons and tools to defeat enemies and overcome obstacles. Clank also adds a strategic element to gameplay, as he can transform into various forms or assist Ratchet with puzzle-solving abilities.
The series is known for its imaginative worlds, vibrant visuals, and humorous writing. It often features a wide array of inventive weapons, from traditional guns to more unconventional and comical weapons. Players can upgrade their weapons and abilities throughout the games, enhancing their combat capabilities.
Ratchet & Clank has been well-received by both critics and players, praised for its engaging gameplay, charming characters, and lighthearted tone. The series has evolved over time, with each installment adding new features, refined mechanics, and expanded narratives. Some notable titles in the series include “Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando,” “Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal,” and the more recent “Ratchet & Clank” (2016), which served as a reimagining of the original game and tied into an animated film release.
Additionally, a standalone game titled “Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart” was released for the PlayStation 5 in 2021. It continues the adventures of Ratchet and Clank, introducing new gameplay mechanics and taking advantage of the next-generation hardware to deliver stunning visuals and fast-paced action.
Conclusion:
The top 10 linear games for PS4 provide an array of unforgettable experiences, each contributing to the rich tapestry of gaming on this beloved console. From emotionally charged narratives to visually stunning worlds, these games showcase the power of linear storytelling and demonstrate the heights that the medium can reach. Whether you’re a fan of post-apocalyptic adventures, gripping dramas, or action-packed journeys, the PS4’s lineup of linear games offers something for every gaming enthusiast. Embark on these immersive experiences and let the captivating narratives unfold as you uncover the secrets, face challenges, and forge unforgettable memories within these extraordinary virtual worlds. Choose your next adventure and prepare to be captivated by the magic of linear gaming on the PlayStation 4.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- What are linear games?
Linear games are video games that follow a structured narrative path, guiding players through a predetermined storyline with limited deviation. They offer a more focused and directed experience compared to open-world games, prioritizing storytelling and scripted sequences.
- How are linear games different from open-world games?
While open-world games provide extensive freedom and exploration, linear games have a more restricted progression. Linear games follow a specific storyline with predetermined objectives, whereas open-world games offer more player agency and the ability to explore vast, non-linear environments.
- What makes linear games special?
Linear games excel in delivering immersive narratives, cinematic presentations, and engaging gameplay mechanics that drive the story forward. They often feature well-defined character arcs, memorable moments, and tightly paced storytelling, creating captivating experiences for players.
- Are linear games less immersive than open-world games?
Not necessarily. While linear games have a more structured progression, they can still provide highly immersive experiences through their compelling narratives, rich environments, and memorable characters. The focused storytelling and directed gameplay of linear games can often lead to deeply immersive and emotionally engaging experiences.
- Can linear games offer replay value?
While the linear nature of these games may limit replayability compared to open-world titles, many linear games offer multiple difficulty levels, hidden collectibles, or branching story paths that encourage replayability. Additionally, the quality of the storytelling and gameplay mechanics can make revisiting linear games a worthwhile experience.
- Are linear games suitable for casual gamers?
Linear games can be enjoyed by gamers of all skill levels, including casual players. Their structured narratives and guided progression can make them more accessible and easier to pick up and play compared to open-world games that require more time and commitment.
- Can linear games be enjoyed by players who prefer multiplayer experiences?
Yes, linear games can be enjoyed by players who prefer multiplayer experiences. While they focus on single-player narratives, many linear games offer rich storytelling, immersive worlds, and satisfying gameplay mechanics that can appeal to a wide range of players, even those who typically gravitate towards multiplayer games.
- Are all linear games story-driven?
While most linear games prioritize storytelling, not all of them are solely focused on narrative elements. Some linear games may emphasize other aspects such as action, exploration, or puzzle-solving, while still maintaining a structured progression and a more directed experience.
- Can linear games be played on other platforms besides PS4?
Yes, linear games are not exclusive to the PS4 platform. While the examples discussed in this blog specifically highlight linear games for PS4, many linear games are available on other platforms such as Xbox, PC, and even newer console generations.
- How long does it take to complete a typical linear game?
The length of a linear game varies depending on the specific title and player’s playstyle. Some linear games can be completed within a few hours, while others may take several days or weeks to finish. The duration is influenced by factors such as the complexity of the narrative, optional side content, and the player’s skill level.