15 Video Game Endings That Will Make You Cry

Video games have the power to evoke a wide range of emotions in players, from happiness and excitement to anger and frustration. But when a game’s story is so well-written and deeply engaging that it can bring you to tears, you know you’ve experienced something truly special. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 15 saddest video game endings that are known to make players cry, but don’t worry – we won’t include any spoilers. So, grab some tissues and let’s dive into these emotional masterpieces.

Our List of Saddest Video Game Endings

1. The Last of Us (2013)

The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic action-adventure game that tells the story of Joel and Ellie, two survivors in a world devastated by a fungal outbreak. The game is known for its incredible storytelling and character development, which ultimately leads to an ending that has left many players in tears.

2. Life is Strange (2015)

This episodic graphic adventure game follows Max Caulfield, a photography student who discovers she has the ability to rewind time. As Max, players must make choices that affect the game’s narrative and lead to one of multiple endings. The emotional weight of these choices, combined with the deep connections formed with the characters, make this game’s conclusion a tear-jerker.

3. To the Moon (2011)

To the Moon is an indie adventure game that tells the story of two doctors who use a unique technology to fulfill a dying man’s last wish. As players uncover the man’s memories and piece together his life, they are treated to a heartwarming and emotional narrative that culminates in a bittersweet ending.

4. Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)

This action-adventure game set in the Wild West follows the story of Arthur Morgan, a member of the notorious Van der Linde gang. With its rich storytelling and character development, players become deeply invested in Arthur’s journey, leading to a conclusion that will tug at your heartstrings.

5. The Walking Dead: Season 1 (2012)

This episodic adventure game, based on the popular comic book series, puts players in the shoes of Lee Everett, a convicted criminal who becomes the protector of a young girl named Clementine. As players make decisions that affect the story’s outcome, they’ll experience an emotional rollercoaster that culminates in a heart-wrenching finale.

6. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons (2013)

In this adventure game, players control two brothers simultaneously as they embark on a journey to save their ailing father. The game’s innovative gameplay and emotional narrative make for a powerful ending that will leave players misty-eyed.

7. Final Fantasy X (2001)

This classic role-playing game follows the story of Tidus, a young athlete who finds himself in a strange world called Spira. As Tidus joins a group of adventurers on a mission to save Spira, players become deeply invested in the characters and their relationships, leading to an ending that will undoubtedly bring a tear to your eye.

8. Valiant Hearts: The Great War (2014)

This puzzle-adventure game tells the story of several characters whose lives are intertwined during World War I. Through beautifully crafted animations and a powerful narrative, Valiant Hearts delivers an ending that is both poignant and emotionally resonant.

9. What Remains of Edith Finch (2017)

In this exploration game, players assume the role of Edith Finch, the last surviving member of a seemingly cursed family. As Edith explores her family’s home, she uncovers stories about her relatives that are both tragic and touching, ultimately leading to an ending that will leave players in tears.

10. Firewatch (2016)

Firewatch is a first-person adventure game that follows the story of Henry, a fire lookout stationed in the Wyoming wilderness. As he develops a relationship with his supervisor, Delilah, through radio communications, players are drawn into a mysterious and emotional narrative that culminates in a tearful conclusion.

11. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice (2017)

This action-adventure game tells the story of Senua, a Celtic warrior on a quest to save the soul of her dead lover. As players guide Senua through a dark and dangerous world, they’ll become emotionally invested in her struggle, leading to an ending that is both powerful and heartbreaking.

12. Ori and the Blind Forest (2015)

This beautifully crafted platform-adventure game follows the journey of Ori, a young forest spirit trying to save his dying forest. With its stunning visuals, enchanting soundtrack, and heartfelt narrative, Ori and the Blind Forest delivers an ending that will leave players reaching for tissues.

13. Shadow of the Colossus (2005)

In this action-adventure game, players assume the role of Wander, a young man on a quest to resurrect a girl named Mono by defeating giant creatures known as colossi. The game’s somber atmosphere and emotional narrative make for an unforgettable and tear-inducing ending.

14. Celeste (2018)

Celeste is a challenging platformer game that tells the story of Madeline, a young woman determined to climb the titular mountain. As players help Madeline overcome her inner demons and face her fears, they’ll experience an emotional journey that culminates in a touching and tearful conclusion.

15. Mass Effect 3 (2012)

The final installment of the popular sci-fi action RPG series follows Commander Shepard as they attempt to save the galaxy from a deadly alien race known as the Reapers. The choices players make throughout the game have a significant impact on the story’s outcome, leading to an emotionally charged and memorable ending.

Worthy mentions:

• Inmost
• Iron Lung
• Before Your Eyes
• Braid
• Omori

From post-apocalyptic tales to heartfelt adventures, these 15 video game endings have left players emotionally shaken and in tears. While we’ve done our best to avoid spoilers, we encourage you to experience these games for yourself and witness firsthand the power of storytelling in video games.