10. Journey
Many hardcore gamers dont consider Journey a game because it lacks a murder button and only lasts a couple hours. But for those who are open to new experiences in video games, Journey is a revelation. Its beautiful, spiritual, powerful, non-violent, innovative, and countless other positive adjectives. The plot is gorgeously simple: an unnamed traveler sets off on a pilgrimage to reach the top of a glowing mountain. Along the way, you can meet another journeyman to travel with through the power of online gaming. Theres no voice chat either, so racist and homophobic slurs must be communicated via button-activated musical notes. There are some obstacles along the way, but overall its a relaxing, stress-free game. Until you freeze to death, that is. All seems lost when the journeyman winds up in a vicious blizzard that seemingly ends their quest. Its a really dark turn, and one that just doesnt mesh with the tone of the rest of the game. Thats why its so relieving when our hero is resurrected by giant spirits, and ascends to the mountaintop. The final flight to the summit is one of the most visually astounding moments in gaming, and the accompanying musical score is breathtaking. At the top, the journeyman walks contently into a mesmerizing light, concluding the adventure. If youre lucky, another player will be walking right alongside you, sharing in this powerful moment. However you interpret this ending, it's nearly impossible not to be moved.