8 Heartbreaking Video Games That Left Players in Tears

Video games can hit you hard, pulling at your heartstrings in ways you don’t expect. From deep character bonds to gut-wrenching choices, some titles leave a lasting emotional mark.

These eight games stand out for their ability to make players feel loss, love, and everything in between. Here’s a look at the stories that broke hearts and why they matter.

The Walking Dead (2012)

Telltale’s ‘The Walking Dead’ follows Lee Everett, a man protecting a young girl named Clementine in a zombie apocalypse. The game’s choices shape their bond, making every decision feel heavy.

The final episode delivers a crushing blow as Lee faces his fate. Saying goodbye to Clementine, knowing their time together shaped her future, leaves players sobbing. It’s a raw, unforgettable moment.

The Last of Us (2013)

‘The Last of Us’ throws you into a post-apocalyptic world where Joel, a hardened survivor, protects Ellie, a teenage girl. Their evolving father-daughter bond is the game’s heart.

The opening scene sets a brutal tone, and the story never lets up. Moments of loss and sacrifice hit hard, with Ellie’s growth and Joel’s struggles making every tear earned.

Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)

Rockstar’s ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ follows Arthur Morgan, an outlaw facing a changing world. His journey with the Van der Linde gang is packed with loyalty and betrayal.

Arthur’s personal arc, especially his battle with illness, feels deeply personal. The game’s ending, where his choices echo beyond his life, leaves you reflecting long after the credits roll.

Final Fantasy 9 (2000)

‘Final Fantasy 9’ tells the tale of Zidane and his crew in a vibrant fantasy world. The story weaves themes of identity and mortality, with Vivi’s arc stealing the show.

Vivi’s quiet struggle with his own existence hits like a truck. His fate, revealed after the credits, is a bittersweet punch that lingers with players.

Persona 3 Reload (2024)

‘Persona 3 Reload’ centers on a high schooler facing death and destiny. The protagonist’s fight against a cosmic threat builds bonds with friends that feel painfully real.

The game’s ending, where the hero makes a final sacrifice, is devastating. Watching him keep a promise to his friends as his time runs out is pure heartbreak.

Valiant Hearts (2014)

‘Valiant Hearts’ explores World War 1 through the lives of ordinary people. Emile, a French farmer, and his companions form tight bonds amid the chaos of war.

The game’s final moments, where Emile’s fate unfolds, are quietly crushing. Its focus on human connection and loss makes it a standout tearjerker.

Cyberpunk 2077 (2020)

‘Cyberpunk 2077’ puts you in the shoes of V, a mercenary in Night City. The story dives into identity and survival, with Johnny Silverhand’s presence adding depth.

No matter your choices, the ending carries a heavy dose of melancholy. V’s journey and the bonds you form make the bittersweet conclusions hit hard.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)

‘The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’ follows Geralt, a monster hunter, as he searches for Ciri, his adopted daughter. The game’s rich world and choices shape their emotional reunion.

Ciri’s fate depends on your decisions, and some outcomes are devastating. The possibility of loss, paired with Geralt’s quiet pain, makes this RPG a heartbreaker.

Which game’s story hit you the hardest, or is there another tearjerker I missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!