10 Powerful Video Game Stories Told Without Words
3. Gris
While it’s not completely dissimilar to other games on this list, indie title, Gris, does well to evoke a feeling in the player despite its minimalist approach to writing and sparing use of dialogue.
Not only does it present a powerful story through art and music alone, it relies on it to tell its tale. Titular character Gris has lost her voice, and it’s her early realisation of this fact that results in the game’s first powerful moment. The scene being void of words means it must use other means to convey this crucial plot point, which Gris succeeds in doing. Moving forward with the story, it’s clear that Gris’ beautiful soundtrack is to be relied upon for any touching moments in the narrative department.
Though vague, the melancholic score and calming water-colour art style both complement the story, as the unnamed protagonist traverses the scenery and, ultimately, works to overcome the overwhelming feeling of loss.
The lack of words does, naturally, mean the game lacks clarity, but the atmosphere Gris creates is powerful enough to garner great emotion regardless of how one decides to interpret its tale.