8 Great Games That End Too Soon

Some video games leave you wanting more because they’re just too short. While their quality shines through, their brief runtimes can feel like a missed opportunity for deeper storytelling or gameplay.

I’ve picked eight games that are fantastic but wrap up quicker than you’d hope. These titles hook you with their worlds or mechanics, only to end before you’re ready. Here’s my take on games that could’ve used a bit more time to shine.

8. The Order: 1886 (2015)

‘The Order: 1886’ drops you into a steampunk Victorian London as a knight battling supernatural foes. Its cinematic visuals and gritty combat are stunning, showcasing the PlayStation 4’s power.

But the game clocks in at just six hours, with little reason to replay. The intriguing story of werewolves and secret societies feels cut short, leaving you craving a longer adventure.

7. Luigi’s Mansion (2001)

‘Luigi’s Mansion’ puts Luigi in a spooky mansion, vacuuming up ghosts with a quirky charm. As a GameCube launch title, it introduced fresh mechanics for the Mario series.

Its five-hour runtime feels too brief for such a fun concept. The mansion’s eerie vibe and clever puzzles beg for more rooms to explore, making it end too abruptly.

6. The Expanse: A Telltale Series (2023)

‘The Expanse: A Telltale Series’ follows Camina Drummer in a prequel to the sci-fi TV show ‘The Expanse’ (2015-2022). Its choice-driven narrative and striking visuals pull you into a tense space adventure.

Released in episodes, the game lasts about eight hours total, but each chapter feels rushed. You’ll wish for more time to dive deeper into its rich universe.

5. Resident Evil 3 (2020)

‘Resident Evil 3’ is a remake of the 1999 classic, following Jill Valentine escaping a zombie-infested city. The tight gunplay and creepy atmosphere deliver a thrilling survival-horror experience.

At five hours, it’s noticeably shorter than other Resident Evil remakes, missing key moments from the original. You’ll finish it wanting more of its intense action.

4. Guacamelee! (2013)

‘Guacamelee!’ is a vibrant Metroidvania where you play Juan, a luchador hopping between the living and dead worlds. Its colorful art and snappy combat make every moment a blast.

The six-hour campaign feels too short to fully explore its creative world. You’ll be left wanting more levels to flex your wrestling moves and uncover secrets.

3. Yoshi’s Story (1997)

‘Yoshi’s Story’ is a charming N64 platformer with a crafty art style and catchy music. You guide Yoshi through colorful levels, munching fruit and dodging enemies.

Its three-hour length and low difficulty make it feel like a weekend rental. The delightful world deserves more stages to keep the fun going longer.

2. The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay (2004)

‘The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay’ is a stealth-action game tied to the sci-fi films. Playing as Riddick, you break out of a prison with slick combat and tense sneaking.

At six hours, the game’s gripping story and gritty vibe end too soon. You’ll wish for more missions to flesh out Riddick’s badass escape.

1. Mirror’s Edge (2008)

‘Mirror’s Edge’ casts you as Faith, a runner leaping across a futuristic city’s rooftops. Its first-person parkour and sleek visuals create a thrilling, unique experience.

The six-hour campaign flies by, leaving you hungry for more of its breathtaking world. A longer story or extra missions would’ve made it even more unforgettable.

Which short game left you wanting more, or is there another brief gem I missed? Share your picks in the comments