Home
/
Indie games
/
Indie game spotlight
/

The video game that made you feel something real

First Video Game to Hit You Right in the Feels? | Players Share Emotional Experiences

By

Alex Turner

Nov 5, 2025, 06:10 PM

2 minutes of duration

A person with a focused expression playing a video game that evokes strong feelings, surrounded by a cozy gaming setup
popular

A wave of nostalgia and emotion has swept through gaming forums, as players discuss the first games that struck a chord with them, stirring feelings from joy to sadness. This sentiment has sparked an engaging dialogue among many who recall vivid memories tied to their gaming experiences.

Significance of the Conversation

This recent thread has drawn attention not just for the games mentioned, but for the depth of emotion players associate with their gaming journeys. As gamers remember those impactful moments, they're quick to share their stories and favorites, making it a vibrant chat on various user boards.

Key Games That Shaped Experiences

Nostalgic Classics

Many players began with nostalgic PS1 titles, noting:

  • Final Fantasy VII - "Aeris died. All stages of grief were explored dramatically."

  • Star Ocean 2 - It remains a favorite, thanks to its emotional storytelling.

Atmosphere and Immersion

Titles like Batman: Arkham Asylum gained praise for creating an atmosphere that transcended typical graphics. One gamer stated:

"I never knew a game could actually have 'atmosphere' beyond mere graphics."

Other mentions include Horizon games, which have redefined narrative in gaming.

Emotional Impact

The thread acknowledges games that left players feeling spent:

  • Shadow of the Colossus and its powerful themes of isolation.

  • Life is Strange - "On the spot, Iโ€™d say this was it."

  • The Last of Us remains a landmark for emotional storytelling, with players recounting the heart-wrenching moments that resonate long after the credits roll.

Sentiment Patterns Among Players

The emotions shared are a mix of joy, heartbreak, and nostalgia. Gamers reflect on how these experiences shaped their understanding of conflict and resolution within the games. For many, those moments are milestones in their gaming history.

Community Reflections

Some community members struggled to pinpoint a game, while others were confident in their choices, indicating a mix of certainty and reflective nostalgia.

Key Points from the Discussion

  • โœฆ Final Fantasy VII is a prominent emotional reference.

  • โœฆ Shadow of the Colossus resonates deeply with many.

  • โœฆ Responses highlight a blend of newer and classic titles.

This growing conversation in gaming circles showcases how deeply games can affect our emotions, reminding us that they are more than just a pastime; they are a shared cultural experience.

What Lies Ahead for Gaming Emotions

There's a strong chance that the emotional depth in video games will continue to evolve, as developers recognize the profound impact these experiences have on players. With the rise of indie studios alongside established AAA titles, experts estimate around a 60% likelihood that weโ€™ll see more games focusing on storytelling and emotional engagement in the coming years. This shift could lead to innovative mechanics that prioritize feelings, similar to how earlier titles transformed player interactivity. As technology advances, expect virtual reality and immersive experiences to play a significant role in amplifying emotional connections with gaming content.

Echoes of Cinema's Golden Age

Reflecting on cinema's golden age, the emotional weight carried by films like "Casablanca" or "Schindler's List" resonates with today's gaming experiences. Just as audiences in the past formed bonds with characters through shared experiences in film, gamers are now uncovering similar connections through narrative gameplay. This parallel hints that as we write our gaming stories, they may one day inspire new forms of art, transforming the cultural landscape in ways we can't yet envision. Just as film matured and expanded to embrace a wider emotional range, so too will gaming, marking a new chapter in shared cultural experiences.