If you love Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt, you understand well that very few games manage to balance dark storytelling and comedy the way this RPG did. One moment, Geralt of Rivia is hunting terrifying monsters or making impossible moral choices. The next, he is arguing with a talking horse, or helping a rock troll cook soup. This ability to shift between emotional drama and laugh-out-loud humor is one of the reasons the game remains beloved a decade after its release.

While players often praise the game’s emotional side quests and unforgettable monster contracts, here we shall discuss the game’s lighter moments deserve just as much attention. If you are looking for the most hilarious Witcher 3 quests, these seven adventures perfectly showcase CD Projekt Red’s brilliant sense of humor.

7. Dead Man’s Party

The Hearts of Stone expansion introduces one of the funniest scenarios in the entire game. During Dead Man’s Party, where Geralt attends a wedding party with Shani, he allows the ghost of Vlodimir von Everec to possess his body so the deceased man can experience one final night of celebration.

The result is comedy from beginning to end. Geralt, who usually speaks with a calm and serious manner, suddenly becomes the life of the party. He dances with Shani, drinks endlessly, flirts without hesitation, and even joins ridiculous contests.

The contrast between Geralt’s normal personality and Vlodimir’s carefree attitude creates countless memorable moments. Watching villagers react to Geralt behaving so wildly makes the quest feel completely different from anything else in the game. It also gives players a rare chance to see the White Wolf let loose, even if someone else is technically in control.

6. The Play’s the Thing

Geralt has fought kings, monsters, and powerful sorcerers, but acting on stage might be his greatest challenge. In The Play’s the Thing, he reluctantly joins a theatrical performance in Novigrad as part of his search for Dudu, so that he can eventually find Dandelion. Players can choose Geralt’s dialogue throughout the play, leading to several amusing outcomes depending on the decisions made.

Even when you select the correct lines, Geralt delivers them with all the enthusiasm of someone reading a shopping list. His dry delivery contrasts perfectly with the overly dramatic actors surrounding him. If you intentionally choose the wrong responses, the performance quickly spirals into chaos, much to the audience’s confusion. We can say this quest is a perfect example of how the most hilarious Witcher 3 quests often rely on sharp writing rather than cringeworthy jokes.

5. Fool’s Gold

At first glance, Fool’s Gold appears to be another simple side quest. Geralt arrives at a village where strange events have taken place, only to discover that many of the villagers have been transformed into pigs.

Maybe this absurd premise alone is enough to make you smile, but the quest becomes even funnier because of Geralt’s reactions. Rather than acting shocked by the bizarre situation, he approaches everything with his trademark sarcasm. As Geralt herds pigs across the countryside and uncovers the truth behind the curse, the quest embraces its ridiculous nature without ever feeling out of place in the world. It is one of those adventures that reminds players the Continent is just as capable of delivering comedy and not just tragedy.

Among the most hilarious Witcher 3 quests, this one stands out because it commits fully to its unusual premise.

4. Shock Therapy

Sometimes the funniest quests have the simplest objectives. In Shock Therapy, Geralt is tasked with helping a druid who has taken a vow of silence. The solution is not to cure him with magic or medicine. Instead, Geralt must become the biggest annoyance imaginable.

Players spend the quest destroying the druid’s silence, frightening him at every opportunity, and ruining his peaceful routine. Every failed attempt increases the druid’s frustration until he finally loses his temper in spectacular fashion. This is what makes this quest among the funniest Witcher 3 quests.

The quest works because Geralt himself seems to recognize just how childish the entire situation is. Instead of slaying monsters, one of the greatest witchers alive spends his day trolling an innocent druid. That unique premise easily earns Shock Therapy a place among the most hilarious Witcher 3 quests.

3. Broken Flowers

Most players remember Broken Flowers as an important part of the main story, but it is also packed with comedy.

While searching for Dandelion, Geralt interviews several women who had crossed paths and probably got romantically involved with his bard friend. Every conversation reveals another unbelievable chapter in Dandelion’s chaotic love life.

One woman remembers him as charming. Another remembers him as reckless. Others simply cannot believe the trouble he managed to create.Throughout the investigation, Geralt grows increasingly exhausted as he pieces together Dandelion’s latest disaster. His sarcastic comments and dry expressions perfectly balance the outrageous stories being told.

2. Harassing a Troll

Many players complete multiple playthroughs without ever discovering Harassing a Troll, making it one of the game’s best hidden quests. Located in Velen, this unmarked adventure introduces a friendly rock troll who is under attack by a group of nekkers. After helping him fight them off, Geralt discovers the monsters were attracted by his homemade nekker soup.

Like most rock trolls in The Witcher 3, Boris has an innocent personality and a wonderfully broken way of speaking that instantly makes him memorable. His attempt to thank Geralt with a bizarre reward only adds to the comedy. The quest is short, but it perfectly captures why trolls have become some of the most beloved creatures in the series. Their childlike innocence and logic combined with sincere kindness create moments that players never forget.

If hidden gems are your favorite part of the game, this is easily one of the most hilarious Witcher 3 quests worth seeking out.

1. Equine Phantoms

When we discuss the most hilarious Witcher 3 quests, no adventure comes close to Equine Phantoms from the Blood and Wine expansion.

After drinking a mysterious potion, Geralt suddenly gains the ability to understand Roach. What follows is one of the funniest conversations in RPG history. Roach questions Geralt’s decisions, pokes fun at his adventures and even jokes about gameplay mechanics that players have complained about for months or years. She explains why she always appears whenever Geralt whistles, comments on her strange habit of ending up in impossible places and refuses to let Geralt forget some of his questionable choices.

The quest is essentially CD Projekt Red making fun of its own game, and the self-aware humor lands perfectly.

Instead of breaking immersion, the dialogue feels like a reward for players who have spent dozens or even hundreds of hours riding across the Continent. Roach’s witty observations remain endlessly hilarious, making this one of the most memorable side quests in the entire franchise.

If you have already completed the game, revisiting these adventures is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. And if you missed any of these funniest Witcher 3 quests during your journey, there has never been a better excuse to return and experience some of the most hilarious Witcher 3 quests for yourself.

Check out what we know so far about Witcher 3 Songs of the Past.

You can also check out 10 most annoying game mechanics in Witcher 3 or 10 most tragic characters in Witcher 3. 

Developed by GrimTalin and Darkania Works, Crimson Maid is a first-person narrative adventure game that blends mystery, exploration and a bit of supernatural horror into a compact five to six-hour experience.

If you are someone who loves story-based games, Crimson Maid may attract you as one of the more intriguing mystery games released in 2026, it immediately grabs your attention with its haunting mansion and eerie atmosphere. While its storytelling is enough to keep players invested, simplistic gameplay and underdeveloped characters prevent it from reaching its full potential.

Read our Crimson Maid review to know if the game is worth your time!

Visuals & Atmosphere

The greatest strength of Crimson Maid is undoubtedly its presentation. Considering it was created by a small development team, the visual quality is genuinely impressive. Every room inside the Rosenthal estate is filled with intricate furniture, dimly lit corridors, religious imagery, and gothic architecture that constantly reminds you something feels wrong beneath the surface.

The mansion itself almost becomes a character. Exploring its bedrooms, hallways, and hidden corners is consistently enjoyable because the environment feels authentic and beautifully crafted. The lighting does an excellent job creating tension, while the gloomy atmosphere keeps you curious about what lies behind the next door.

Few indie walking simulator games manage to create such a convincing gothic setting. Even during slower moments, the atmosphere alone is enough to keep you moving forward.

Gameplay, Exploration & Puzzles

If you’re expecting combat or deep gameplay mechanics, Crimson Maid may disappoint you. The gameplay is deliberately simple, making it closer to a walking simulator than a traditional adventure game. You’ll spend most of your time exploring rooms, interacting with objects, solving puzzles, and progressing conversations.

This simplicity might work in the game’s favor if your primary interest is experiencing the story without complicated mechanics. However, players looking for meaningful gameplay systems or challenging exploration may not fully enjoy the experience.

Exploration can also become frustrating. There are several moments where the game provides little guidance about your next objective, leaving you wandering through the mansion trying to trigger the next event. Better objective design would have improved the pacing considerably.

The puzzles in Crimson Maid are not that difficult throughout most of the game and rarely become roadblocks. Surprisingly, the final puzzle can feel unnecessarily confusing compared to everything before it.

Characters in Crimson Maid

Unfortunately, the weakest aspect of Crimson Maid is its characters.

Although Marius Rosenthal, Irina, Leon Rosenthal, and the rest of the household all have interesting roles within the mystery, they rarely become emotionally engaging. Much of this comes down to presentation, we can say. You hardly feel for a character or sympathize with them, because the writing feels quite lifeless.

There is no voice acting, which again immediately removes much of the emotional weight from important scenes. Characters also remain largely static during conversations, often maintaining nearly identical facial expressions throughout the story. Instead of feeling like believable people living inside the estate, they often resemble stationary figures waiting for the next conversation. Due to this, Crimson Maid feels like a game made 10 to 15 years ago.

The dialogue itself is equally disappointing. Rather than delivering memorable exchanges or emotionally layered conversations, many interactions feel surprisingly simplistic, almost resembling a children’s fairy tale despite the game’s mature gothic themes. As a result, it’s difficult to form a strong emotional connection with anyone, even when the story might try to make you care about their struggles.

Story in Crimson Maid

The story begins rather slowly. The opening chapters can feel uneventful, and the pacing struggles to build momentum early on. Fortunately, things become far more interesting once it becomes clear that everyone inside the Rosenthal estate is hiding something.

Irina quickly becomes one of the biggest reasons to continue playing. Her mysterious yet charming personality keeps you interested and she is the main reason why the narrative is engaging. The growing tension surrounding the family slowly encourages you to uncover more secrets. Around Chapter 8, the story becomes significantly more intense and finally starts delivering on its promise.

The story is not straightforward as Crimson Maid does feature an unexpected twist, but whether it fully pays off is another matter.

If you’ve played numerous detective or narrative games or read plenty of mystery novels, portions of the story become fairly predictable despite the occasional surprise. More importantly, several character decisions and reactions simply don’t feel believable, making certain story developments difficult to fully accept. I personally find the latter parts of the story quite predictable, and if you play the game, you might understand why.

That said, Crimson Maid still succeeds in doing one important thing: keeping you interested until the very end. Even if the conclusion doesn’t entirely satisfy, and might leave few questions unanswered, the mystery remains compelling enough to encourage you to keep searching for answers.

Music & Sound

The soundtrack is decent but ultimately forgettable. While the visuals do most of the heavy lifting, stronger music could have elevated the eerie gothic atmosphere even further. An even bigger issue is the lack of impactful sound effects. The mansion often feels quieter than it should, reducing the immersion during exploration.

Choices & Replayability

Replayability is also limited. Although the game advertises multiple endings, most choices throughout the journey have very little impact on the overall story. Only the final decisions meaningfully influence the conclusion, and this can make additional playthroughs feel less rewarding than expected.

Verdict

Crimson Maid is a visually impressive indie adventure that understands how to build atmosphere. The gorgeous mansion, creepy gothic aesthetic, and intriguing mystery make it easy to recommend to fans of walking simulator games especially if you don’t mind slower narrative experiences.

However, simplistic gameplay, static characters, forgettable audio, and limited replay value stop it from becoming one of the standout mystery games released in 2026.

Players who enjoy walking simulator experiences and atmospheric storytelling will still find plenty to appreciate, but those expecting interesting gameplay mechanics or complex character writing may leave disappointed.

So should you play Crimson Maid? You can, but don’t expect something extremely unique that will blow your mind. It is good enough to keep you engaged but the ending might not feel that rewarding.

Final Score: 6/10

If you liked our Crimson Maid review, you can read our other articles such as 10 Underrated Psychological Horror Games You Can Play in 2026 

Psychological horror has evolved far beyond cheap jump scares and grotesque monsters. The best games in the genre leave you questioning your own perception, morality, and reality long after the credits roll. While the Silent Hill and Evil Dead franchise dominate discussions when we talk about psychological horror games, there are countless hidden gems that deserve far more recognition.

If you’re looking for underrated psychological horror games that deliver unforgettable stories, emotional depth, and mind-bending narratives, this list is for you. Whether you’re searching for psychological horror games like Silent Hill or simply want other types of best psychological horror games that most players have overlooked, these titles deserve a place on your wishlist.

10. Who Is Mike

Identity becomes the greatest source of terror in this fascinating visual novel. After waking up, you’re confronted by another man who looks exactly like you and insists that he is the real Mike. Suddenly every conversation, every memory, and every decision become suspicious.

Its intriguing premise makes it one of the most unique horror games to play in 2026, especially for players who enjoy psychological mysteries more than traditional survival horror. And the best thing is Who is Mike is completely free on steam, to download and play!

9. Among the Sleep

At first glance, Among the Sleep appears to be another indie horror game. In reality, it’s one of the most emotional experiences in the genre.

You experience the entire story through the eyes of a two-year-old child, turning an ordinary home into a terrifying labyrinth filled with distorted memories and frightening shadows. The brilliance lies in how childhood innocence reshapes reality, allowing players to slowly piece together a heartbreaking story without relying on excessive exposition.

Among the many underrated psychological horror games, this is definitely among the most emotionally impactful.

8. The Medium

The Medium introduces a unique mechanic that lets players explore two realities simultaneously.

Rather than focusing entirely on monsters, the game explores trauma, memory, and emotional scars through dual-world exploration. While opinions on its ending remain divided, the game’s storytelling and atmosphere make it stand out. If you are looking for modern psychological horror games like Silent Hill, you can definitely try this.

It remains one of the more overlooked underrated psychological horror games released in recent years.

7. Downfall

Relationships rarely become the foundation of horror, but Downfall proves just how terrifying emotional collapse can be.

It tells the story of a guy who is truly loves his wife. As reality slowly dissolves around the protagonist, players are forced to question what is genuine and what exists only inside a fractured mind. Its surreal imagery and mature writing create an unforgettable psychological experience.

Among all underrated psychological horror games, Downfall remains one of the finest examples of character-driven horror.

6. Lorelai

Revolving around a girl who refuses to give up, Lorelai transforms personal trauma into an unforgettable psychological journey.

The game explores family abuse, grief, and resilience through surreal dreamlike sequences without ever losing sight of its emotional core. Its memorable characters and cinematic storytelling elevate it far beyond conventional horror. It remains one of the best psychological horror games for players who value narrative above everything else.

5. Detention

Blending Taiwanese history with supernatural horror, Detention delivers one of gaming’s most emotionally devastating stories. Set in 1960s Taiwan, when the country was under martial law, the game revolves around a high school student trapped in a supernatural version of her school.

Its haunting atmosphere is supported by brilliant symbolism, unforgettable environmental storytelling, and themes of guilt, regret, and political oppression. Every revelation deepens the tragedy rather than relying on cheap twists.

If you’re searching for psychological horror games like Silent Hill, then this game should be in your list!

4. The Cat Lady

Few horror games have portrayed depression, loneliness, and hope with as much compassion as The Cat Lady. It revolves around Susan Ashworth, a 40-year-old lonely woman on the verge of suicide.

Rather than relying on monsters, the game confronts players with deeply human struggles while weaving surreal horror into every chapter. Its unforgettable protagonist and emotionally powerful narrative have earned it cult classic status among psychological horror fans.

Even today, although the visuals seem outdated, it stands among the greatest underrated psychological horror games ever created.

3. Visage

Few games manage to create sustained dread as effectively as Visage. Taking place in an ever-changing house, the game’s fragmented storytelling requires patience. The game rewards players who pay close attention to environmental details and subtle clues. Every chapter explores fear from a different perspective, gradually revealing a disturbing overarching mystery.

If atmosphere matters as much as story, Visage easily earns its its place among the best psychological horror games in 2026.

2. Who’s Lila?

What if you couldn’t choose dialogue? Unlike traditional choice-based games, Who’s Lila does something different.

Here instead of dialogue, you physically manipulate the protagonist’s facial expressions before every conversation, never knowing exactly how others will interpret them. This innovative mechanic becomes central to an increasingly surreal story that is filled with identity, manipulation, and existential dread.

If you’re looking for truly original psychological horror games like Silent Hill, few titles experiment with storytelling as boldly as Who’s Lila? It is without a doubt also one of the absolute best psychological horror games released in the past decade.

1. Saya no Uta (Song of Saya)

No other game explores perception quite like Saya no Uta. Following a devastating accident, the protagonist begins seeing the entire world as a grotesque nightmare where ordinary people appear as horrifying monsters. Only one mysterious girl still looks human, setting the stage for one of the most disturbing and tragic stories ever told in gaming.

The game constantly challenges players to reconsider morality, identity, and the meaning of humanity itself. One of the best stories ever written among visual novels, every decision feels emotionally devastating because the line between victim and monster becomes increasingly blurred.

Among all underrated psychological horror games, Saya no Uta stands at the very top. Its unforgettable story, philosophical themes, and emotional complexity firmly establish it as one of the best psychological horror games ever created.

Final Thoughts

Mainstream classics like Silent Hill might always define the genre, but there are countless hidden masterpieces waiting to be discovered. These underrated psychological horror games prove that the scariest stories don’t always rely on monsters or jump scares. Instead, they explore trauma, guilt, identity, memory, and the darkest corners of the human mind.

Also check out 7 Cinematic Horror Games You Can Play Right Away!

Released on July 17, 2020, Ghost of Tsushima is an open-world action-adventure game set during the first Mongol invasion of Japan in 1274., The game follows Jin Sakai, one of the last surviving samurai on Tsushima Island, as he struggles to repel the invading forces led by Khotun Khan.

While the game presents the Mongols as the obvious enemy, its emotional conflict revolves around Jin’s relationship with his uncle, Lord Shimura. By the end of the journey, it becomes clear that Lord Shimura is the real villain, not because he serves the Mongols, but because he repeatedly places a broken political system above the people he claims to protect.

1. Shimura’s Version of Honor Was Never About Saving Lives

The biggest misconception in Ghost of Tsushima is that Lord Shimura represents genuine morality, honor and traditions. In reality, his definition of honor revolves around preserving the authority of the samurai class, even when it costs innocent lives.

Shimura constantly condemns Jin for using stealth, deception, and poison despite the overwhelming military advantage enjoyed by the Mongols. Every time Jin successfully weakens the invaders through unconventional tactics, Shimura responds with outrage rather than enthusiasm and gratitude.

This makes one thing painfully obvious: Lord Shimura is the real villain because his priorities are in the wrong places. Victory comes second. Protecting the image of the samurai comes first. For Shimura, a glorious defeat is preferable to a dishonorable victory, even if thousands of civilians pay the price.

2. He Saw the Ghost as a Political Threat Instead of Tsushima’s Savior

The Ghost did something that no one in the island expected. Jin proved that ordinary people could fight back against impossible odds without relying entirely on the samurai elite. Farmers, blacksmiths, thieves, monks, and survivors all became part of Tsushima’s resistance. That wasn’t simply a military problem for Shimura. It was a political nightmare.

The Ghost inspired hope among commoners while simultaneously proving that traditional samurai warfare was no longer the only path to victory. Once fear of the ruling class disappears, authority begins to crumble.

This is exactly why Lord Shimura is the real villain. Rather than embracing the tactics that were saving the innocent people in the island, he became obsessed with preserving a hierarchy that benefited the ruling class far more than the people dying beneath it. His enemy gradually became Jin instead of Khotun Khan.

3. Yuna Was Nothing More Than an Expendable Scapegoat

No character exposes Shimura’s hypocrisy better than Yuna. Despite relying on her knowledge, survival skills, and assistance throughout the campaign, Shimura never truly accepts her because she is a common thief. Once he learns that the Shogun is going to know about the Ghost’s methods, Shimura immediately searches for someone to blame.

His solution is brutally simple. Blame Yuna.

Instead of defending the woman who helped liberate Tsushima, he expects Jin to sacrifice her so the samurai leadership can distance itself from the poison attacks. Her life becomes a convenient political offering designed to protect the reputation of the ruling samurai class.

Once again, Lord Shimura is the real villain because his loyalty lies with appearances rather than justice. To him, Yuna’s execution is an acceptable price for preserving the honor of the samurai.

4. He Wanted Jin to Abandon Clan Sakai for His Own Legacy

Shimura’s desire to adopt Jin is often portrayed as a touching father-son moment. It is anything but.

Adoption would erase the independent future of Clan Sakai by making Jin the heir of Clan Shimura instead. In a society where lineage, inheritance, and family legacy defined political power, this was far more than an emotional gesture.

Shimura expected Jin to abandon his father’s legacy in order to strengthen his own household. When Jin refuses because he is unwilling to become Yuna a scapegoat, Shimura’s affection suddenly has limits.Instead of respecting his nephew’s decision, he places his so-called duty above family, and puts Jin in prison.

This is another reason Lord Shimura is the real villain. His love for Jin exists only as long as Jin remains useful to the system Shimura serves. The moment Jin chooses conscience over obedience, Shimura chooses the state over his own family.

5. His “Honor” Meant Nothing During the Yarikawa Rebellion

Lord Shimura constantly lectures Jin about honor, yet his own history tells a different story. Years before the Mongol invasion, Yarikawa rebelled against the Shogunate. Shimura, alongside other samurai clans, brutally crushed the uprising. Even years later, the people of Yarikawa still despise Clan Shimura and Clan Sakai, showing just how deep the scars of that campaign remain. So where was Shimura’s honor then?

Apparently, honor wasn’t an obstacle when the enemy consisted of fellow Japanese challenging the Shogunate. It only became sacred when Jin used unconventional tactics to save Tsushima from a brutal foreign invasion.

That contradiction exposes Shimura’s greatest hypocrisy. His version of honor was never a universal moral code; it was a tool used to defend the samurai hierarchy whenever its authority was threatened. Once you recognize that, it becomes much easier to see why Lord Shimura is the real villain in Ghost of Tsushima.

6. He Was Willing to Sacrifice His Own Soldiers Instead of Changing His Strategy

We perfectly see at the Battle of Castle how Shimura himself exposes the fatal flaw in his leadership. After the samurai successfully pushed the Mongols back, Khotun Khan’s men destroyed the bridge leading to the inner keep, which had killed countless warriors in the explosion. Rather than adapting to the situation, Shimura planned to rebuild the bridge and launch another frontal assault at dawn, despite knowing it would send even more of his own men into a heavily fortified killing zone.

Jin immediately recognized this reality of the battlefield. Repairing the bridge under enemy fire would cost countless lives before the samurai even reached the castle walls. Instead, he infiltrated the keep alone and poisoned the Mongol army, allowing Castle Shimura to be retaken without sacrificing another wave of soldiers.

Shimura, however, was horrified; not because his men had died, but because Jin had violated the samurai code. That reaction says everything. Faced with a choice between preserving lives or preserving tradition, Shimura chose tradition. It is difficult to call that honorable. A true leader values the lives of his soldiers above customs, outdated or not. Shimura was willing to spend those lives to protect an ideal, making the argument that Lord Shimura is the real villain even stronger.

7. He Was Even Willing to Kill the Man Who Saved Tsushima

Perhaps the greatest indictment of Shimura’s character comes after the Mongols have already been defeated.

Jin rescues Shimura from captivity, reunites the island’s fractured clans, inspires ordinary people to resist the invasion, defeats Ryuzo, kills Khotun Khan, and ultimately saves Tsushima from getting captured by the Mongols. Without Jin abandoning the traditional samurai code, none of those victories would have been possible.

Yet none of that mattered to Shimura. He did not even allow the Ghost to be a temporary solution against the Mongols. When the Shogun declared the Ghost a threat to the authority of the samurai, Shimura accepted the order to execute Jin without hesitation. He disbanded Clan Sakai, abandoned his dream of adopting Jin, and at the end of the game, we see him challenging Jin, the protector of Tsushima, his own nephew to a duel to the death.

This wasn’t a battle against a traitor. It was a battle against the very man who had accomplished what every samurai on the island had failed to do. Shimura knew Jin had saved countless lives, including his own, but he still chose loyalty to the Shogun over loyalty to his family.

That final confrontation reveals Shimura’s true priorities. His devotion was never to justice, compassion, or even the people of Tsushima. It was to the political system he had sworn to uphold. This is why he can choose his loyalty to the Shogunate over his nephew any day!

Conclusion

Lord Shimura wasn’t simply an outdated samurai struggling to adapt to changing times. He consistently chose political authority, tradition, and the samurai hierarchy over the lives of his people and even his own family.

History has repeatedly shown that guerrilla warfare is not inherently dishonorable; great leaders like Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who had built the Maratha Empire in India, used it to fight against the Mughals as they were stronger and larger in number. while earning lasting respect for himself. Shimura’s real flaw wasn’t just not seeing the importance of guerilla warfare at such a crucial time, nor his commitment to honor, but his willingness to hide behind it whenever power was at stake. That is why Lord Shimura is the real villain in Ghost of Tsushima, if we look deeply into the story.

Read our full review of Ghost of Tsushima’s and why its Storytelling Feels Untouchable

Also check out some of the best cinematic horror games that you can play

Good detective games are a rare breed today. Even rarer are detective games that manage to combine compelling mysteries, memorable characters, historical authenticity, and satisfying deduction mechanics into one cohesive package. Murders on the Yangtze River does exactly that.

Set in early 1900s China, this hand-drawn detective adventure follows Shen Chung-pin, a brilliant investigator searching for the truth behind the death of his brother, Brian, who died under mysterious circumstances in London three years earlier. Along the way, Shen and his loyal companion Ah Foo encounter a series of seemingly unrelated murder cases. What begins as a straightforward investigation gradually evolves into something much larger, delivering one of the most engaging mystery narratives in gaming.

Story and Characters

The biggest strength of Murders on the Yangtze River is undoubtedly its story.

Each case is meticulously crafted, featuring intriguing setups, memorable suspects, and unpredictable twists. Unlike many detective games where murders exist merely as puzzles to solve, Murders on the Yangtze River ensures that every crime has emotional weight. The motives behind the murders are often tragic, understandable, and deeply human. Even when players disagree with the actions of certain characters, they will rarely struggle to understand why those characters made the choices they did.

At the center of the narrative is Shen Chung-pin, one of the most compelling detective protagonists that I can remember. Intelligent, observant, and emotionally driven, Shen is more than simply a Chinese version of Sherlock Holmes. He ends up becoming a detective only during his quest to uncover the truth behind his brother Brian’s mysterious death and it is this story that gives the entire game a strong emotional backbone.

Equally important is Ah Foo. The relationship between Shen and Ah Foo is one of the game’s highlights. Their interactions provide warmth, humor, and emotional grounding throughout the story. The chemistry between the two characters ensures that players remain invested not only in the mysteries but also in their personal journey.

The overarching mystery surrounding Brian’s death ties the individual cases together beautifully. Instead of feeling episodic, every investigation contributes to a larger narrative, constantly rewarding you with newer revelations and clues, which keeps you tied to the game.

By the end of the game, the game delivers several fascinating truths for humanity as a whole. However, some players may feel that the narrative gradually shifts away from being a tightly focused psychological murder mystery and becomes increasingly interested in socio-political commentary.

Gameplay and Deduction Mechanics

Murders on the Yangtze River strikes an excellent balance between storytelling and gameplay.

Players investigate crime scenes, gather evidence, interrogate suspects, and use deduction mechanics to reconstruct events. Unlike purely narrative-driven experiences, the game constantly encourages active participation and using your thinking. Players are expected to pay attention to details, examine clues carefully, and draw their own conclusions.

The side-scrolling exploration deserves particular praise. Simply moving Shen through beautifully realized environments makes the world feel tangible and alive. Exploration breaks up long conversations and ensures that the game never feels like a passive reading experience.

The deduction segments are equally satisfying. Successfully connecting clues and exposing contradictions gives us a genuine sense of accomplishment. While experienced mystery fans may occasionally predict certain twists, the game generally plays fair with its clues and never relies on cheap surprises.

The courtroom confrontations, meanwhile, provide some of the game’s most memorable moments, delivering dramatic reveals and emotional payoffs that definitely rivals the best detective adventures available today. I would definitely count the game as among the best detective games I have ever played.

Historical Setting and World Building

Early twentieth-century China is an incredibly underutilized setting in video games, and Murders on the Yangtze River takes full advantage of this unique backdrop.

The game vividly depicts a society caught between tradition and modernization. Foreign influence, political instability, and social tensions all play important roles in shaping both the world and its characters.

Perhaps most impressively, the historical setting never feels superficial. It is woven directly into the mysteries themselves, influencing motives, relationships, and broader themes throughout the story.

The result is a world that feels authentic, immersive, and distinct from the countless Victorian or contemporary detective settings that dominate the genre.

Art Direction and Presentation

Visually, Murders on the Yangtze River is stunning.

The hand-drawn art style gives the game a unique identity and it perfectly complements its history as well. Every location is richly detailed, atmospheric, and kind of has its own personality.

More importantly, the stylized presentation makes the game feel timeless. Unlike realistic graphics that often age poorly, hand-drawn visuals retain their appeal for decades. Much like classic animated films, Murders on the Yangtze River possesses an artistic quality that ensures it will remain visually impressive long after contemporary graphical showcases have been forgotten.

The presentation immerses you quite well in early twentieth-century China, making exploration a genuine pleasure.

Music and Sound Design

The soundtrack is nothing short of brilliant. Whether you are investigating crime scenes, confronting suspects, or making dramatic revelations, the music always manages to enhance the atmosphere. Tense tracks elevate courtroom confrontations, while quieter pieces effectively capture both melancholy and reflection.

The soundtrack rarely calls attention to itself, yet it constantly reinforces the emotional tone of each scene. In a mystery game where atmosphere is crucial, this understated approach proves highly effective.

Pacing Issues

Despite its many strengths, Murders on the Yangtze River is not without flaws. The game’s biggest issue is pacing, particularly during the last chapter, which just goes on and on, on and on.

The problem is not necessarily the overall length. Rather, certain sections simply linger for too long. When we talk about the final courtroom scene, it continues way too long. You spend hours within the same location, cycling through dialogues, presenting evidence, revisiting characters and cycling through dialogues again. And again.

Spending three hours or more in the same courtroom sequence can become tedious, even when the writing remains strong and engaging. Yes, the story and mystery is definitely interesting. But the overall length of the game, which is around 15-20 hours could have been easily shortened by around 20 percent.

Additionally, while the final mastermind reveal is presented exceptionally well, observant players may find parts of the mystery somewhat predictable. No, I am not talking about the killer in the last chapter. The revelation about the killer is mind-blowing and completely unpredictable. But if we talk about the final mastermind behind the events, that is something many players can find predictable if you are used to playing detective games and reading mystery novels.

Finally, the game’s increasing emphasis on socio-political themes near the conclusion may divide players. Some will appreciate the broader historical commentary and the important message that the game tries to give on social issues, others might have prefered and ending with a tighter psychological focus that defined earlier chapters.

Should you Play Murders on the Yangtze River?

The answer is – Yes. Especially if you are a fan of detective stories and mysteries, Murders on the Yangtze River is one of the finest best games ever created. Its mind-blowing mysteries, memorable protagonists, atmospheric soundtrack, and stunning hand-drawn artwork creates an unforgettable experience. Even if you are someone who has never played a detective game before, this might be the one where you can start!

Minor pacing issues and the extremely long final act prevent it from achieving absolute perfection, but these shortcomings do not diminish the overall experience.

Rating : 9 out of 10 stars 

If you’re looking for the most underrated games of 2026, these five titles deserve a place on your radar.

1. MOUSE: P.I. For Hire

Few games released in 2026 looked as unique as MOUSE: P.I. For Hire. Developed by Fumi Games, this noir-inspired first-person shooter combines classic 1930s rubber-hose cartoon visuals with fast-paced boomer-shooter action. Players step into the shoes of private investigator Jack Pepper as he uncovers corruption and conspiracy in the city of Mouseburg.

What makes this game special is how confidently it blends genres. One moment you’re investigating clues like a detective, and the next you’re blasting through enemies with a growing arsenal of absurd weapons. Despite strong sales and positive reviews, the game never dominated gaming discussions, making it among the underrated games of 2026.

For a title that successfully combined old-school FPS gameplay, noir storytelling, and one of the most distinctive art styles of the decade, MOUSE: P.I. For Hire deserved far more coverage.

2. ZERO PARADES: For Dead Spies

When ZA/UM announced its next project after Disco Elysium, expectations were naturally sky-high. Yet ZERO PARADES: For Dead Spies somehow slipped under the radar compared to many major RPG releases. The original developers behind Disco Elysium is not involved in this project, which could be the reason why it remained among the underrated games of 2026.

The espionage RPG follows operative Hershel Wilk, codenamed Cascade, on a dangerous mission filled with deception, psychological conflict, and difficult choices. Rather than relying on traditional combat systems, the game focuses heavily on dialogue, investigation, skill checks, and internal struggles.

Its layered writing and mature storytelling make it one of the most intellectually engaging RPGs released this year. While critics and hardcore RPG fans appreciated what it achieved, broader gaming communities largely overlooked it.

For players who miss narrative-driven role-playing games that trust the audience’s intelligence, ZERO PARADES is a must-play.

3. Cairn

Most games ask players to save the world. Cairn asks them to climb a mountain.

That simple premise results in one of the most unique gaming experiences of 2026. Developed by The Game Bakers, Cairn is a realistic climbing and survival adventure where every handhold, foothold, and movement matters. Players control mountaineer Aava as she attempts to conquer the unforgiving Mount Kami.

The game turns climbing into a tense puzzle. Route planning, stamina management, weather conditions, and survival mechanics all play a role in determining whether you reach the summit or fall short.

Critics praised its originality, but the gameplay can feel slow and frustrating, which is why it is not for everyone. Maybe this is why Cairn rarely appeared in discussions about the year’s best games, making it among the underrated games of 2026. In an industry flooded with familiar formulas, it delivered something genuinely different and deserved far more attention than it received.

4. God of War: Sons of Sparta

The God of War name guarantees visibility, but Sons of Sparta still feels surprisingly under-discussed. It is definitely among the underrated games of 2026.

Instead of continuing the modern Norse saga, this 2D Metroidvania takes players back to ancient Greece and focuses on the relationship between young Kratos and his brother Deimos. The result is a refreshing blend of exploration, platforming, combat, and storytelling.

Many fans dismissed the game simply because it wasn’t a traditional God of War title. Those who gave it a chance discovered a surprisingly emotional prequel that expanded the franchise’s lore while delivering excellent gameplay.

Many people might have expected Sons of Sparta to have sparked months of discussion. Instead, it was quickly overshadowed by larger releases, which is why it remains among the underrated games of 2026.

5. ReAnimal

Tarsier Studios built a reputation with Little Nightmares, and ReAnimal proves the studio hasn’t lost its touch.

Among the most underrated games of 2026, this horror adventure follows a brother and sister as they navigate a terrifying island filled with grotesque creatures and unsettling mysteries. The game’s atmosphere is outstanding, combining disturbing visuals with constant tension and uncertainty.

What separates ReAnimal from many horror games is its focus on emotional storytelling. The relationship between the two protagonists adds weight to every encounter and transforms the journey into something far more memorable than a typical survival horror experience.

Despite delivering some of the most haunting moments of 2026, ReAnimal never generated the level of conversation its quality warranted. This is probably because it was followed by Resident Evil Requiem, one of the biggest horror releases of the decade.

Read our review of ReAnimal here. 

Also check out 10 short games you can finish in a single weekend! 

Modern adulthood is basically an endless boss fight against time. Between work, studies, family responsibilities, fitness routine, and the occasional existential crisis at 2 AM, not everyone can spend 120 hours grinding a massive open world game anymore. That is exactly why short games you can complete in one weekend are in demand, especially among older gamers. They respect your time while still delivering unforgettable stories, emotional moments, terrifying scares, or explosive action.

The best part is that many of these games feel more memorable than bloated open-world titles filled with repetitive quests. Some are emotional narrative games that stay in your head for weeks, while others are intense horror games or stylish action games that can be completed in just a few sittings. If you are searching for short games you can complete in one weekend, this list has some of the best experiences modern gaming has to offer.

10. Choo-Choo Charles

Choo-Choo Charles is one of the weirdest horror games released in recent years, and honestly, that is exactly why people love it. The idea of a giant demonic spider train hunting players across an island sounds ridiculous on paper, but the game somehow makes it genuinely tense and entertaining.

The story is quite simplistic and the game doesn’t pretend to take itself too seriously. Its short runtime works perfectly because the concept never overstays its welcome. You can finish it comfortably over a weekend, or even a single night, making it one of the most unique short games you can complete in one weekend.

9. As Dusk Falls

As Dusk Falls is a narrative game that focuses on storytelling, choices, and character relationships. The game follows multiple characters whose lives collide after a robbery goes horribly wrong, leading to emotional and unpredictable consequences.

Among modern narrative games, this one deserves more attention because of how engaging its storytelling becomes. Once you start the game, it is hard to stop till you completely finish it! It is binge-worthy in the same way a great Netflix thriller is binge-worthy, which makes it one of the best short games you can complete in one weekend.

8. What Remains of Edith Finch

What Remains of Edith Finch is a masterpiece of storytelling. You explore a huge mansion as a young girl and the only surviving member of a family, who is back to her family mansion after many years. Every family member’s story feels unique, emotional, and creatively designed in ways that constantly surprise the player.

The game proves that short experiences can sometimes leave a bigger impact than massive open-world adventures. Emotional, imaginative, heartbreaking, and unforgettable, people continue discussing theories around the game even after years.

7. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

Spider-Man: Miles Morales proves that not every superhero game needs to be gigantic to feel meaningful. The shorter length actually benefits the experience because the story remains focused and emotionally engaging throughout. You play as Miles Morales who is supposed to protect New York City as the new Spiderman, after Peter Parker leaves the country on a vacation.

Swinging through snowy New York feels incredible, while the combat adds enough style and energy to keep things exciting from start to finish. If you enjoy cinematic action games with strong pacing, this is easily one of the best short games you can complete in one weekend. And don’t worry- you need not need to play Insomniac’s other titles to enjoy this one!

6. Until Dawn

Released in 2015 and again remade in 2024 for PC and PS5, Until Dawn feels like a playable horror movie where every choice can completely change the outcome. The game constantly builds tension as players try to keep a group of friends alive during a terrifying night in the mountains.

Among modern horror games, few titles are this replayable or entertaining with friends. The cinematic presentation, branching choices, and nonstop suspense make it one of the ultimate short games you can complete in one weekend.

5. The Quarry

The Quarry follows a similar formula to Until Dawn but with a larger cast and a more chaotic summer-camp setting. Every decision matters, and one bad choice can completely destroy a character’s survival chances.

The game works brilliantly as a weekend experience because it feels like watching a long interactive horror series. Fans of narrative games and horror games will easily get hooked for hours without realizing how quickly time passes.

Check our full review of The Quarry here.

4. Little Nightmares

Little Nightmares is proof that atmosphere alone can create unforgettable horror. The game is quite popular among horror fans as it constantly makes players feel small, vulnerable, and deeply uncomfortable through disturbing environments and terrifying enemy designs.

Every chapter introduces something memorable. Thanks to its brilliant pacing and visual storytelling, it stands among the best short games you can complete in one weekend. If you loved Little Nightmares, you can also check out its sequels, as well as the 2026 game Re-Animal.

3. Batman: Arkham Asylum

It is hard to believe that this game came out back in 2009! Batman: Arkham Asylum remains one of the greatest superhero games ever made because of its focused design combined with tight and intense storytelling. Instead of drowning players in endless side content, the game delivers a tightly paced adventure inside Gotham’s infamous asylum.

The combat still feels satisfying even today, while the dark atmosphere perfectly captures the feeling of being trapped inside a prison filled with maniacs. The best thing is that the game never feels repetitive. Among classic action games, very few hold up this well even after so many years, which is why it remains one of the finest short games you can complete in one weekend.

2. Bramble: The Mountain King

Bramble: The Mountain King feels like a twisted fairytale slowly descending into nightmare territory. Inspired by Nordic folklore, the game is about a young boy who is forced to go on an adventure after his sister gets kidnapped by the Mountain King. The game mixes beautiful environments with disturbing creatures and genuinely creepy moments.

Despite resembling a children’s tale, this dark fantasy game is quite dark and is actually not meant for children. Unlike many horror games that rely entirely on jump scares, Bramble succeeds through atmosphere and visual storytelling. Its pacing remains consistently strong throughout the experience, making it one of the most memorable short games you can complete in one weekend.

1. Firewatch

Firewatch is not filled with nonstop action nor with traditional horror, yet its story, characters, art style and atmosphere maks it quite unique. Even a decade later, it remains one of the most emotionally immersive gaming experiences ever made. Set inside a lonely forest, the game revolves around a guy named Henry who takes up a job as a fire lookout in a National Park in Wyoming, after his wife gets dementia, in order to escape from everything.

The game focuses heavily on atmosphere, mystery, and need for human connection. The conversations feel natural and believable, which helps players become attached to the story and characters surprisingly quickly. Among emotional narrative games, few games are this effective while remaining short and focused, which is why it stands on top of our list.

Final Thoughts

Not every gamer has time for endless 100-hour adventures anymore, and honestly, that is completely fine. Some of the most unforgettable gaming experiences come from shorter titles that deliver powerful stories and memorable gameplay without unnecessary filler.

Whether you love horror games, stylish action games, or emotional narrative games, these short games you can complete in one weekend prove that great experiences do not need to consume your entire month. Sometimes all you need is a free weekend, a comfortable chair, and a game that respects your time.

Even after over a decade, players continue discovering new secrets inside The Witcher 3. From tiny unmarked islands to strange caves hidden behind mountains, the game is filled with stories many players completely miss during their first playthrough. Few RPGs have ever matched the sheer amount of hidden content CD Projekt Red packed into the world, especially across the dangerous islands of Skellige.

Some of these quests only appear if you explore carefully, while others can disappear forever depending on your choices. These Hidden Quests in Skellige prove why The Witcher 3 still feels alive today, even years after release for millions of players worldwide.

Skellige is probably the region with the highest number of hidden or missable quests and locations, but here we are going to explore only seven of the top ones.

7. Shock Therapy

Among the funniest Hidden Quests in Skellige, Shock Therapy is easy to overlook because it begins near the druid settlement of Gedyneith on Ard Skellig. Geralt meets a worried druid who explains that his friend has suddenly stopped speaking entirely. According to him, the only way to cure the man is to repeatedly scare and annoy him until he finally breaks his silence.

What follows is one of the most ridiculous quests in the game. Geralt throws beehives, destroys fires, and creates chaos around the silent druid while the poor man desperately tries to maintain his composure. Eventually, he finally snaps and starts shouting in frustration, completing the quest in hilarious fashion.

6. Free Spirit

Hidden away on Snidhall Isle north of the Ancient Crypt, Geralt saves a man named Ivar from an angry warrior and learns that he is secretly in love with Irma, a Priestess of Freya. Since priestesses are forbidden from marrying, the relationship has turned into a dangerous scandal.

Instead of hunting monsters, Geralt must collect rare religious books to help Ivar search for a loophole in Skellige’s traditions. Its unusual structure and hidden island location make it one of the most overlooked Hidden Quests in Skellige.

5. The Price of Honor

This quest begins near a wrecked ship in the northeastern waters of Skellige, in Harviken, Faroe Isle, where Geralt is asked by a man to investigate the disappearance of a young woman, his bethroted bride, whom his brothers were supposed to fetch . The investigation slowly reveals a tragic story involving love, family expectations, and honor.

Because the quest starts through exploration rather than a major NPC or notice board, many players sail past it completely. That hidden setup makes it one of the Witcher 3 quests in Skellige you probably missed during your first playthrough.

4. The Family Blade

Starting from a notice board in Kaer Trolde Harbor, Geralt is hired to recover Kuliu, a stolen ancestral sword belonging to Clan an Craite, who has promised a big bounty to anyone who can catch the thief. The search will take you across several remote Skellige locations while following clues left behind by thieves.

Although this quest isn’t quite hidden, many players ignore the quest because it first appears to be a basic treasure recovery mission. However, its hidden locations and investigation-focused structure make it one of the more memorable Hidden Quests in Skellige.

3. Crime and Punishment

On a remote coastline east of Rogne near the Ancient Crypt, Geralt discovers a man chained to a rock and abandoned to die for murder. He pleads Geralt for help. After hearing the prisoner’s side of the story, players must decide whether he deserves mercy or punishment.

The quest begins as a completely unmarked encounter with no obvious marker leading players toward it. Even veteran fans continue discovering it years later, making it one of the Witcher 3 quests in Skellige you probably missed.

2. For Fame and Glory

West of Larvik on Hindarsfjall, two young Skellige warriors ask Geralt to help them clear a monster-infested cave so they can earn glory and become legends. Their reckless obsession with heroic death perfectly reflects Skellige’s warrior culture.

Inside the cave, Geralt battles necrophages while trying to keep the two warriors alive. Since the quest is hidden away in an isolated part of Hindarsfjall, many players never naturally stumble upon it.

1. The Cave of Dreams

Near Holmstein’s Port in southwestern Ard Skellig, Geralt joins Blueboy Lugos and several warriors in a strange hallucinogenic ritual inside a mysterious cave. Once the visions begin, each character is forced to confront terrifying manifestations of their deepest fears and regrets.

What makes the quest so memorable is how different it feels from a normal Witcher contract. Instead of simply hunting monsters, players experience disturbing visions, eerie environments, and dreamlike sequences that feel closer to horror than fantasy.

Since the quest becomes unavailable after King’s Gambit, many players permanently miss it during their playthrough, which is why many fans consider it the greatest and rarest Hidden Quest in Skellige.

Also check out five missable quests in Novigrad many Witcher 3 players miss.

You can read our Witcher 3 review that explains why the game stands out over a decade later.

Released in 2026, 007: First Light is the latest James Bond game developed and published by IO Interactive, the studio behind the legendary Hitman games. Expectations were naturally sky-high. After all, if there was any studio capable of blending stealth gameplay with the cinematic spectacle of a Bond film, it was probably IO Interactive.

And to be fair, 007: First Light does succeed in several important areas. The visuals are phenomenal, the presentation is incredibly cinematic, and some stealth sections genuinely feel like classic IO Interactive brilliance. In fact, this may be one of the most cinematic non-PlayStation-exclusive action adventure games ever released.

But there is also a major problem.

007: First Light constantly feels unsure about what it actually wants to be. Instead of focusing on one clear identity, the game desperately tries to become Hitman, Uncharted, Batman Arkham, Watch Dogs, a cinematic narrative game, and a full Hollywood blockbuster all at the same time. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it feels like five different AAA games fighting each other in the same room.

One Of The Most Cinematic Games IO Interactive Has Ever Made

The first thing players will notice about 007: First Light is the presentation. The game looks absolutely gorgeous. Character models, lighting, animations, environments, and cinematic camera work are all extremely polished. Compared to the recent Hitman trilogy, this is easily IO Interactive’s most visually ambitious project.

Whether Bond is infiltrating snowy military facilities, exploring luxury hotels, sneaking through crowded markets, or attending elite events, the game constantly feels expensive. Several scenes genuinely look like something straight out of a modern Bond movie.

And honestly, this is where the game deserves massive credit. Very few non-PlayStation-exclusive games have managed to reach this level of cinematic spectacle at launch. The transitions between gameplay and cutscenes are smooth, the action choreography is stylish, and the globe-trotting atmosphere feels authentic to the Bond franchise.

At times, I genuinely forgot I was playing a game made by the same studio behind the Hitman games because the presentation feels so much larger and more cinematic than anything IO Interactive has done before.

The Hitman DNA Is Visible

If you are among the long-time fans of the Hitman games, you will immediately recognize familiar design ideas hidden throughout 007: First Light.

Strong aesthetic similarities to both classic and World of Assassination Hitman missions can be seen in nearly all the missions. The Mauritania mission strongly resembles Marrakesh and Mumbai probably because of the environment and its crowded market infiltration. Meanwhile, the nightclub mission feels heavily inspired by Berlin’s Apex Predator with its dark club atmosphere, undercover espionage tone, and most importantly, hidden threats inside civilian crowds.

The Slovakia hotel mission also gives strong Paris and Dartmoor vibes thanks to its high-profile event setting and elegant architecture. Meanwhile, the Webb Industries mission feels like Chongqing mixed with elements of The Graveyard Shift and The Jacuzzi Job from Hitman 2: Silent Assassin. These similarities are not criticisms. In fact, some of the best parts of 007: First Light happen when the game fully embraces its stealth roots instead of trying to imitate a Hollywood movie every five minutes.

Stealth And Puzzle Sections Are Surprisingly Strong

One thing I genuinely enjoyed throughout 007: First Light was the stealth gameplay and puzzle-solving sections. Sneaking through guarded compounds, infiltrating restricted areas, bypassing security systems, and solving environmental puzzles often feels satisfying and rewarding. If you love the Hitman games, you will most likely enjoy these parts.

These moments showcase the classic strengths of IO Interactive. There are several missions where the game slows down and actually allows players to think, observe, and experiment instead of constantly throwing explosions at the screen. Ironically, for me, these quieter stealth and exploration moments were kind of more memorable than some of the giant cinematic set pieces.

Unfortunately, replay value is where the game struggles badly. Once the surprises in the story and scripted sequences are gone, many missions lose much of their appeal. This becomes especially noticeable because replayability has always been one of the biggest strengths of the Hitman games.

I replayed all Hitman games, including even Hitman Absolution multiple times despite its flaws. But with 007: First Light, I honestly cannot see myself replaying the game again anytime soon. Once the cinematic spectacle fades away, there simply is not enough gameplay depth left to keep pulling me back.

The Game Has A Serious Identity Crisis

And now this is where 007: First Light starts falling apart. The game constantly jumps between completely different gameplay styles. One moment it wants to be Hitman with stealth infiltration and disguises. Then suddenly it becomes Uncharted with heavily scripted action scenes in beautiful locations and collapsing environments. A few minutes later, it starts behaving like the Watch Dogs games with gadget hacking systems, followed by combat, stealth sections and boss-fights heavily inspired by Batman Arkham series.

Then the game suddenly decides it also wants to become a cinematic narrative game. There are dialogue choices throughout the story, but most of them barely affect anything meaningful. The ending and major story remain unchanged, which makes many choices feel cosmetic rather than impactful. It feels like the game desperately wants players to think they are shaping the story without actually committing to meaningful consequences.

And then come the QTE moments. Why exactly does a third-person stealth-action game suddenly need random “press button quickly” sequences every few hours? This is not Detroit Become Human. These sections often feel outdated and unnecessary, interrupting gameplay flow instead of improving immersion.

At times, 007: First Light genuinely feels like a AAA identity crisis simulator.

007: First Light Feels Like Several AAA Games Fighting Each Other

One of the most fascinating and unintentionally hilarious things about 007: First Light is how aggressively it tries to borrow ideas from almost every major AAA franchise imaginable at the same time.

• Hitman WOA– stealth infiltration, disguises, and sandbox-inspired level design.
• Hitman Absolution – cinematic action pacing, bullet-time effects, flashy takedowns, and “hero slowly walking away from explosions” energy.
• Uncharted – globe-trotting adventures, beautiful locations, collapsing environments, and gigantic scripted sequences
• Batman Arkham – stealth predator sections, reliance of gadgets, and strategic boss fights.
• Sleeping Dogs – stylish hand-to-hand combat choreography and flashy environmental takedowns.
• Detroit Become Human – dialogue choices, QTE moments, and interactive-movie presentation
• Watch Dogs – hacking systems and tech-driven espionage gameplay.

Individually, none of these inspirations are bad. The problem is that 007: First Light tries to juggle all of them simultaneously while also behaving like a full Hollywood Bond movie. At times, the game genuinely feels less like one focused experience and more like seven AAA games arguing with each other over who gets control of James Bond.

The Story Starts Slowly And Leans Too Hard Into Hollywood Clichés

The story itself is not terrible. In fact, by the time Chapter 4 ends, things finally start becoming genuinely interesting once the larger conspiracy elements begin unfolding. Before that point, however, the narrative mostly feels like a generic spy thriller.

The biggest problem is that the game constantly tries too hard to behave like a modern Hollywood blockbuster. And unfortunately, that means many scenes become painfully predictable.

Villains repeatedly get Bond cornered only to start delivering dramatic monologues instead of simply shooting him immediately. Apparently every villain in this universe has a PhD in wasting time. Bond also keeps surviving through last-second rescues again and again and again. Every time the game tries to convince you Bond was finally trapped, another character magically appeared at the very last possible moment to save him.

After a while, these scenes stop creating tension because the player already knows exactly what is going to happen.

“Oh no, Bond is cornered and about to die.”

Five seconds later:
“Never mind, somebody crashed through a wall to save him again.”

The villains are another weak point. Damian especially feels far too cartoonish throughout the game. Instead of feeling threatening or psychologically interesting, he often comes across like a stereotypical Hollywood villain trying very hard to sound dramatic without having particularly clear motivations.

The supporting characters are also somewhat underutilized. Some interactions are enjoyable, and Bond himself has charisma in several scenes, but many emotional moments feel underdeveloped. Isola is honestly one of the more interesting characters in 007: First Light, mainly because she brings some mystery and unpredictability into the story whenever she appears. However, her dynamic with Bond also feels heavily reminiscent of the classic Batman and Catwoman relationship.

The flirtation, the constant tension, the “can you really trust this person?” energy, and the emotionally distant chemistry all feel very familiar. While that dynamic can still be entertaining, it also makes several story beats feel predictable because experienced players can immediately guess the kind of role Isola is going to play in Bond’s journey long before the game fully reveals its hand.

The Combat Feels Like Hitman Absolution Mixed with Other Games

The combat in 007: First Light feels heavily inspired by Hitman Absolution, especially because of its cinematic shootouts, slow-motion bullet-time effects, flashy takedowns, and action-thriller pacing. At several moments, it genuinely feels like IO Interactive revisited the Hollywood-style direction they experimented with in Absolution, except now with James Bond instead of Agent 47.

At the same time, other influences are clearly visible too. Some melee sections resemble Sleeping Dogs because of their cinematic hand-to-hand choreography and environmental takedowns, while the gadget-assisted combat sections occasionally give off Batman Arkham vibes. The large scripted cinematic action sequences also feel very similar to the Uncharted games.

The problem is not that these inspirations exist. The problem is that the game rarely commits fully to one combat identity. Instead, 007: First Light constantly shifts between stealth shooter, cinematic action game, gadget thriller, and scripted Hollywood spectacle, making the overall experience feel stylish but sometimes strangely unfocused.

Technical Problems Hurt The Experience

Though I managed to finish the game in five days, performance problems also damaged my experience significantly. Despite running the game on low settings and having hardware above the minimum requirements, the PC version still suffered from crashes, stuttering, and lag throughout the playthrough. These issues became frustrating because cinematic games rely heavily on immersion and pacing.

Several critics also mentioned inconsistent PC optimization, so this clearly was not an isolated issue.

Final Verdict- Is 007: First Light Worth Playing?

007: First Light is one of the strangest AAA games I have played recently because it is simultaneously impressive and frustrating at the same time. As a cinematic experience, it absolutely succeeds. The visuals are gorgeous, the atmosphere is stylish, and several stealth missions genuinely remind players why IO Interactive became famous in the first place. Fans looking for visually spectacular action adventure games of 2026 will probably still find plenty to enjoy here.

But as a complete package, the game often feels unfocused. Instead of mastering one strong identity, 007: First Light constantly tries to become several popular AAA formulas imaginable. Along with Hitman, Uncharted, Batman Arkham, etc. it mixes together Hollywood spy movies into one giant package. Sometimes those ideas blend well. Other times, the experience feels bloated and exhausting.

I did not hate 007: First Light. In fact, I enjoyed parts of it quite a lot. But by the end, I mostly felt relieved that the experience was over instead of emotionally attached to it.

And honestly, for a game developed by the creators of the Hitman games that I love, it was honestly disappointing.

So, if you are looking for a one-time linear action adventure game, feel free to give it a try. However, don’t expect something like Hitman that makes you want to replay the game again and again.

Rating: 6.5 out of 10

Check out some of our other articles on the Hitman franchise:

All Hitman games ranked from weakest to strongest

Review of Hitman World of Assassination almost 5 years later: The Game That Refused to Die

The world of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is filled with unique monsters, emotional storylines, tough choices, and unforgettable cities where we lost track of time. What’s amazing is that even after over a decade and even after hundreds of hours, many players still discover entirely new content hidden across the game. Novigrad is another example of this. The city feels alive because secrets exist around every corner. You can walk into a random alley or marketplace and suddenly trigger a full storyline. That is why this discussions such as this one 5 missable quests in Novigrad, continue even years after release. Some of these quests are hilarious, while others are darker than parts of the main story itself.

So, let us take a look at 5 missable quests in Novigrad, where we picked some of the top ones.

5. Novigrad Hospitality

When people discuss 5 missable quests in Novigrad, this quest is almost always mentioned first because it perfectly captures the unpredictable nature of the city. Geralt encounters two cheerful bards drinking by the roadside near Yantra. They invite him to sit down and drink with them. Most players either ignore them or never even notice them.

If Geralt accepts the invitation and continues drinking, he eventually wakes up robbed with almost all his gear missing. The quest then turns into a short but memorable investigation where Geralt tracks the thieves using Witcher senses. It is not a massive quest with huge rewards, but that is exactly why players love it.

The best part is how believable the entire situation feels. Novigrad is a dangerous place filled with thieves, gamblers, drunks, and opportunists. Geralt lowering his guard for one evening and immediately regretting it feels completely natural. This humor is also what makes the quest stand out among others.

Many playersmight not like “Novigrad Hospitality” much among the other hidden Witcher 3 quests in Novigrad because it has no dramatic setup. The game does not push you toward it. You simply stumble upon it naturally while exploring.

4. Cabaret

“Cabaret” is one of the funniest and most charming side quests in the entire game. Yet surprisingly, many players never complete it because they rush through the main story. It easily earns it a place among the 5 missable quests in Novigrad.

The quest begins through Dandelion’s storyline after several major events in Novigrad. Dandelion decides to open a cabaret, which naturally leads to absolute chaos. Geralt becomes involved in renovations, local gang problems, theater drama, and bizarre misunderstandings.

What makes “Cabaret” memorable is how human it feels. Not every quest needs world-ending stakes. Sometimes the best stories involve friends trying to build something meaningful in a cruel city.Dandelion also shines throughout the quest. Many players initially view him as comic relief, but “Cabaret” adds emotional depth to his character. His dream of creating something artistic and joyful inside violent Novigrad actually becomes surprisingly touching.

This quest should be included in lists of Witcher 3 quests you did not know about because players accidentally lock themselves out by progressing too quickly through the main story missions.The humor is also fantastic. Few RPGs manage comedy naturally, but Witcher 3 consistently succeeds because the characters feel authentic.

3. The Dwarven Document Dilemma

This smaller side quest often gets overshadowed by larger storylines, but it deserves a place among the 5 missable quests in Novigrad because of how cleverly it connects with later events.

Near the bridge leading toward Novigrad, Geralt encounters a distressed dwarf who claims important documents were stolen from him. At first glance, it feels like a simple fetch quest. But who knows? It might turn out to be even more!  That interconnected design is one of the reasons Witcher 3 still feels ahead of many modern RPGs. Tiny actions matter. NPCs remember things. Small side stories can quietly influence later encounters.

Many fans place “The Dwarven Document Dilemma” among the top Hidden Witcher 3 quests in Novigrad because players sometimes easily progress too far in the story and lose access to it. The game never loudly warns you.

2. A Tome Entombed

Among the 5 missable quests in Novigrad, this may be the easiest one to permanently miss. The quest is hidden deep inside the sewers during the mission “A Dangerous Game.” While chasing Duke, players can discover a breakable wall that leads to a secret crypt. Most players run past the area completely.

Behind the hidden wall is a trapped scholar surrounded by ancient books and dangerous creatures. The atmosphere immediately changes from ordinary sewer exploration into gothic horror. Dark tunnels, old stone chambers, and a mysterious vampire make the quest feel like something from an older fantasy RPG.

What makes “A Tome Entombed” special is the sense of discovery. There is no obvious marker screaming for attention. You find it only if you are curious enough to explore every hidden corner.

“A Tomb Entombed” also one of those Witcher 3 quests you did not know about until someone randomly mentioned it online years later. Even longtime fans often discover it during a second or third playthrough. The quest proves how much effort CD Projekt Red placed into optional content. Many modern RPGs barely develop their main quests properly, yet Witcher 3 hides fully voiced side stories behind random walls in sewer systems.

1. Carnal Sins

If “Cabaret” represents the lighter side of Novigrad, “Carnal Sins” represents its darkest side. Many players consider this one of the greatest detective among RPG games.

The storyline begins after Priscilla is brutally attacked. Geralt and Dandelion begin investigating what initially appears to be an ordinary crime. However, the deeper Geralt digs, the more disturbing the mystery becomes. The atmosphere throughout the quest is genuinely unsettling. Blood-covered crime scenes, nervous witnesses, autopsies, religious paranoia, and psychological manipulation create constant tension. Unlike monster hunts, you realize that this quest might focus on human evil.

That is exactly why so many players remember it years later.

Among the 5 missable quests in Novigrad, this one leaves the strongest emotional impact for most players. The villain reveal shocked many players during their first playthrough because the game carefully builds suspicion around multiple characters.

The list shows you why even the hidden Witcher 3 quests in Novigrad remain legendary. Optional content in this game often feels deeper and more mature than main quests from other RPGs.

You can also check out top 9 missable quests in Toussaint in Witcher 3. 

You can also check out the top 10 oldest characters in Witcher 3.