Unforgettable Gaming Experiences You Can Finish in Under 5 Hours
Discover a collection of captivating games that offer immersive experiences in under 5 hours From the gripping psychological horror of PT to the emotional journey of Journey, these titles deliver unforgettable moments that can be enjoyed in a single afternoon
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In a gaming landscape dominated by expansive open-world and ongoing live-service projects, there is a refreshing change of pace in playing streamlined games. While it can be immersive and enjoyable to invest countless hours in games like Persona 5 Royal, The Witcher 3, or the latest Assassin's Creed installment, there is something uniquely powerful about experiencing a story in a single sitting.
Although there aren't many AAA titles that can be completed within a few hours, the indie scene offers a different story. In fact, some of the most exceptional independent releases of all time have a runtime similar to that of a movie. So, what are the finest short games out there?
To qualify, a game's average "main story" length on HowLongToBeat must be under 5 hours. Also, roguelikes will not be considered since repeat playthroughs are the norm.
23 P.T.
| Release Date | August 12, 2014 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Kojima Productions |
| Genre | Horror |
| Platform/s | PS4 |
Starting with a painful truth, P.T. is a flawlessly executed psychological horror game that, regrettably, cannot be legally downloaded anywhere. Originally released as a freebie to unveil the creation of Silent Hills, P.T. was later pulled from the PlayStation store after Konami terminated the project.
Immersing players through a first-person perspective, P.T. plunges them into an endless cycle within a haunted apartment. As they unravel puzzles in an attempt to escape the loop, players must constantly evade the clutches of Lisa, a terror-inducing apparition.
22 Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon
| Release Date | April 30, 2013 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Ubisoft Montreal |
| Genre | First-Person Shooter |
| Platform/s |
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Unlike modern Assassin's Creed games, Ubisoft's Far Cry projects do not typically have excessively long campaigns. Most of them can be finished in approximately 20 hours, making them a reasonable length for open-world releases. While they may not have the endless gameplay found in other games of the same genre, they are still not short enough to be completed within just 5 hours, excluding any secret endings. The one exception is Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, which is a standalone expansion that provides enjoyment even without prior knowledge of the main game.
Parodying '80s action movies, Blood Dragon enlists players as a commando tasked with thwarting a disgruntled agent's nefarious scheme worthy of a two-part episode in a Saturday Morning Cartoon. Naturally, the quest for victory entails demolishing everything in sight, an aspect in which the game truly excels. Blood Dragon offers expansive environments that bestow players with the freedom to approach missions according to their own unique strategies, mirroring the open-world essence of the series' mainline entries.
21 Firewatch
| Release Date | February 9, 2016 |
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| Developer | Campo Santo |
| Genre | Adventure |
| Platform/s |
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Henry looks out from his watchtower, taking in the breathtaking yet desolate expanse of the national forest. Tasked with the duty of safeguarding the woods and ensuring their protection, his life takes an intricate turn when a group of teenage girls arrives and mysteriously vanishes.
Despite its relatively straightforward gameplay focused on exploration, Firewatch compensates with its compelling narrative and captivating ambiance. By making decisions and engaging with Delilah, Henry's boss and sole companion, players have the ability to shape Henry's destiny, resulting in a deeply personal experience that leaves a lasting impression even after the game concludes.
20 Astro's Playroom
| Release Date | November 12, 2020 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Team Asobi |
| Genre | Platformer |
| Platform/s | PS5 |
Astro's Playroom is a complimentary game that accompanies the PS5 and serves as an introduction to the impressive features of the DualSense controller. This game essentially acts as a tech demonstration to engage users before they delve into more substantial gaming experiences. Despite serving this purpose, Astro's Playroom remains one of the top PS5 console exclusives, offering a delightful abundance of references and tributes to PlayStation's rich history.
19 Little Nightmares
When it comes to 3D platformers, Team Asobi's game not only offers a seamless gameplay experience but also boasts stunning visuals. Even as a 3-hour pack-in game, Astro's Playroom manages to keep things exciting by constantly introducing fresh gameplay elements.
| Release Date | April 28, 2017 |
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| Developer | Tarsier Studios |
| Genre | Horror, Puzzle, Platformer |
| Platform/s |
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Side-scrolling games are not typically associated with horror, but they have produced their fair share of terrifying experiences. Little Nightmares perfectly embodies this unsettling and creepy atmosphere. Playing as Six, gamers must navigate the nightmarish world of the Maw, where each level is centered around a horrifying humanoid creature.
Little Nightmares can be described as a stealth platformer with puzzle-like encounters. The game relies on minimal dialogue and focuses on environmental storytelling, allowing Tarsier Studios to craft a haunting narrative that expands the world while developing the character of Six.
18 Doki Doki Literature Club!
| Release Date | September 22, 2017 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Team Salvato |
| Genre | Visual Novel, Horror |
| Platform/s | PC |
Doki Doki Literature Club! comes in two different forms: the original game, which is free, and the Plus! version. Although both versions have main storylines that can be completed in around 5 hours, players will need to play through the game multiple times to explore all the different routes. As a result, even though a single playthrough can be completed in less than 5 hours, most players may not feel satisfied until they have experienced all the possible outcomes.
Regardless, Doki Doki Literature Club! is a remarkable game that deserves recognition. At first, it presents itself as a combination of a visual novel and dating sim. However, it soon takes a surprising turn, leading players on an unforgettable and occasionally horrifying journey. The Plus! version of the game offers additional side stories that effectively expand upon the characters. Nevertheless, for those simply seeking to try out a visual novel, the free version is likely to satisfy most people.
17 Metal Slug 3
| Release Date | March 23, 2000 |
|---|---|
| Developer | SNK |
| Genre | Run and Gun |
| Platform/s |
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Metal Slug 3 is a strong contender for the title of the best run and gun game ever made. This statement can also be applied to other entries in the franchise. Originating from arcades, SNK's game is notorious for its high level of difficulty, requiring players to put in a substantial amount of practice before they can successfully complete the campaign. However, regardless of the chosen platform, Metal Slug 3 remains a challenging and exhilarating experience.
What sets Metal Slug 3 apart is its exceptional gameplay, which makes it highly replayable. The campaign offers multiple paths, keeping things fresh and exciting. The game boasts tight and satisfying gun mechanics, coupled with stunning visuals and epic boss battles. Released in 2000, SNK truly achieved perfection with Metal Slug 3, as it still holds up beautifully to this day.
16 To the Moon
| Release Date | November 1, 2011 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Freebird Games |
| Genre | Adventure |
| Platform/s |
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To the Moon centers around the final wish of a terminally ill man to visit the Earth's treasured natural satellite. To fulfill his heartfelt longing, representatives from the renowned Sigmund Corporation infiltrate his consciousness, skillfully constructing artificial memories that portray the realization of his extraordinary aspiration. As they delve further into the intricate tapestry of the client's past, the puzzle pieces of his life story and innermost thoughts gradually fall into place.
15 Superhot
To the Moon, released by Freebird in 2011, received high praise upon its initial launch and has gracefully withstood the test of time. The game's focus is solely on its captivating narrative, with minimal emphasis on substantial gameplay elements. Although this approach may deter certain players, it is a deliberate choice that aligns perfectly with the game's unique circumstances.
| Release Date | February 25, 2016 |
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| Developer | Superhot Team |
| Genre | First-Person Shooter |
| Platform/s |
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Superhot is an elegant first-person shooter that revolves around a powerful game mechanic: enemies remain stationary until the player initiates movement. This unique feature introduces a strategic element, requiring players to thoroughly assess each scenario to determine the most intelligent course of action.
With a single-player campaign spanning 31 levels, including a thrilling finale, Superhot provides a compact yet fulfilling experience. Additionally, the game offers excellent value by incorporating an endless mode, ensuring players can enjoy its captivating gameplay for extended periods.
14 Donkey Kong Country
| Release Date | November 21, 1994 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Rare |
| Genre | Platformer |
| Platform/s |
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Some of the most remarkable games ever made can be attributed to Rare, and perhaps their greatest accomplishment lies in the Donkey Kong Country series. Although Diddy's Kong Quest is commonly regarded as the pinnacle of the franchise, with a runtime of just over 5 hours, fortunately, the original DKC fulfills the requirements and remains a true masterpiece.
13 What Remains Of Edith Finch
Despite being nearly 30 years old, the game's pre-rendered visuals still captivate and demonstrate the impressive capabilities of the aging SNES. While some elements may feel outdated by today's standards, DKC remains impressive in its gameplay, soundtrack, and distinct presentation, guaranteeing that Rare's masterpiece will continue to be cherished and revisited for years to come.
| Release Date | April 25, 2017 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Giant Sparrow |
| Genre | First-Person Exploration |
| Platform/s |
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What Remains of Edith Finch exemplifies the divisive "walking sim" genre, offering a narrative-focused adventure game centered around Edith Finch's exploration of her ancestral home. As Edith delves into the rooms of her relatives, she uncovers the secrets behind the tragedies that have shaped the Finch family.
Interestingly, What Remains of Edith Finch manages to create a soothing atmosphere, despite delving into complex and weighty subjects. Players are granted a certain level of autonomy to explore the expansive Finch estate, and the environment subtly tells its own stories along the way.
12 A Short Hike
| Release Date | July 30, 2019 |
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| Developer | Adam Robinson-Yu |
| Genre | Adventure |
| Platform/s |
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In A Short Hike, Claire, a bird, embarks on a day at the park with an important call coming her way. Determined to find a signal, Claire sets her sights on reaching the trail's peak, the lone spot where reception is possible. Along the way, she has the opportunity to interact with fellow park-goers and take on additional quests.
11 Gone Home
Visually stunning and remarkably expansive, A Short Hike is a serene gaming experience that prompts players to pause and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings. As Claire embarks on her journey to gather feathers and unlock essential abilities for reaching the summit, the game grants players the freedom to dictate their own pace.
| Release Date | February 25, 2016 |
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| Developers | The Fullbright Company, BlitWorks |
| Genre | First-Person Exploration |
| Platform/s |
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Similar to What Remains of Edith Finch, Gone Home follows a female protagonist returning to her family home. However, she is taken aback when she discovers that no one is there to greet her. As Katie explores every corner of the house, she gradually uncovers the mysteries surrounding her relatives.
Gone Home offers both freedom and constraints. Players have the liberty to wander through the entire house, delving deep into each room to uncover the truth. However, the gameplay primarily revolves around reading messages, with limited interactive elements. Nevertheless, Gone Home triumphs in creating a captivating atmosphere and presenting an intriguing central mystery.
10 The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe
| Release Date | April 27, 2022 |
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| Developer | Galactic Cafe, Crows Crows Crows |
| Genre | Adventure |
| Platform/s |
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The Stanley Parable from 2013 is an incredibly amusing, surreal, and unforgettable game. With its 2022 console port, players now have access to not only the original base game but also a wealth of new content. This combination enhances the overall experience, surpassing the already highly praised original version. As players take control of Stanley, an office worker trapped in a mostly vacant building, they are guided by a disembodied narrator. While following the main storyline is an option, venturing off the expected path is where the true adventure lies.
The Stanley Parable is an intriguing anomaly as it is bound to captivate players for more than just a few hours. Although a single playthrough can be completed swiftly, the true value of this game lies in unraveling its multitude of endings. Despite its brevity in comparison to other games, The Stanley Parable is far from lacking in substance, especially in its Ultra Deluxe version.
9 Mega Man 2
| Release Date | December 24, 1988 |
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| Developer | Capcom |
| Genre | Action Platformer |
| Platform/s |
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Nearly all of the mainline Mega Man games are eligible for this discussion, including several of the X and Zero spin-offs. In essence, it is up to personal preference as Capcom's franchise has remained consistently strong over the years. However, Mega Man 2 not only established the franchise's prominence but also achieved a level of excellence that few of its sequels managed to replicate.
Despite being released over 30 years ago, Mega Man 2 has proven itself to be a timeless masterpiece. The game's core mechanics are incredibly well-refined and are complemented by expertly-crafted levels, an exceptional soundtrack, and an impressive roster of bosses. With its high level of difficulty, newcomers to Mega Man may require more than 3 hours to complete it.
8 Portal
| Release Date | October 10, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Valve |
| Genre | Puzzle-Platform |
| Platform/s |
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| Release Date | October 10, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Valve |
| Genre | Puzzle-Platform |
| Platform/s |
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While the sequel, Portal 2, offers approximately 8 hours of gameplay, it's important not to overlook the fact that its predecessor is significantly shorter. Valve's original Portal can be completed in just 3 hours, yet manages to achieve a great deal within that brief timeframe. Players take on the role of Chell, finding themselves abruptly awakened within a research facility under the control of GLaDOS, one of gaming's most memorable A.I. characters. Throughout the game, GLaDOS challenges the human protagonist with a series of puzzles, all the while delivering hilarious one-liners that aim to undermine their confidence.
Although Portal may have been overshadowed by its sequel, it retains nearly all of the same inherent strengths. The truth is, these two games should be considered as a combined entity; one should begin with the initial release in 2007 and then seamlessly transition into its successor.
7 Doom (1993)
| Release Date | December 10, 1993 |
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| Developer | id Software |
| Genre | First-Person Shooter |
| Platform/s |
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Content:
Realistically, those who played Doom in the past, whether on its original release or any of its numerous ports, would find it difficult to tear themselves away from the game for hours on end. Its brilliance is just that captivating. However, a single playthrough of the campaign can be completed in approximately 5 hours, and experienced players are likely to finish even faster. Once the Doomguy has successfully eliminated all the demons, it is only natural to immediately start over at a higher difficulty level. That's just the way Doom is played.
While some of the later entries in the series offer lengthier gameplay, Doom is designed to be a sprint rather than a marathon. The first-person shooter demands constant alertness and movement, as even a momentary lapse can result in serious damage or death. So, even if a playthrough only lasts for 4 hours, it will be an intense and rewarding experience.
6 Brothers: A Tale Of Two Sons
| Release Date | August 7, 2013 |
|---|---|
| Developer | Starbreeze Studios |
| Genre | Adventure |
| Platform/s |
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Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons recounts the journey of the two brothers who embark on a mission to obtain mystical water from the Tree of Life, with the aim of saving their ailing father. While the game allows players to control both siblings, it was initially designed for solo play, although co-operative gameplay was later added in the Switch version.
The former provides a satisfactory means to engage in this transformative adventure, however, the initial version truly accentuates the profound bond between the siblings. Players are required to master the art of simultaneously managing both protagonists, and this endeavor to achieve harmony is mirrored in the gradual evolution of the brothers' relationship.
5 Journey
| Release Date | March 13, 2012 |
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| Developer | Thatgamecompany |
| Genre | Adventure |
| Platform/s |
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Content: Journey is without a doubt the pinnacle of Thatgamecompany's creations. It takes players on a captivating journey through a stunning yet desolate world, where they assume the role of indistinct figures. Unlike traditional storytelling through dialogue, Journey encourages players to fully engage in the gameplay's present moments.
Although the majority of the experience is solitary, there is a chance for players to encounter a stranger during their expedition. Despite the lack of direct interaction, these encounters generate a sense of unpredictability, ensuring that each playthrough is a distinctive and memorable experience.
4 Papers, Please
| Release Date | August 8, 2013 |
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| Developer | 3909 LLC |
| Genre | Simulation |
| Platform/s |
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Papers, Please is a weighty game that puts players in the role of a cog within a larger system. It captures the conflicting emotions of powerlessness and authority, granting players the ability to significantly impact a stranger's life with a single choice. Taking on the role of an immigration officer, the player must make judgements on whether or not to allow individuals entry into Arstotzka, a nation marked by oppression and despondency.
The brilliance of the game is its ability to humanize both those attempting to cross the border and the main character. The choices made by the main character have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only those involved but also the agent. Ultimately, a difficult decision arises as to whether to prioritize one's own family or the lives of others.
