10 Video Games That Make You a Better Human

For many people outside the world of gaming, video games are still seen as a simple form of entertainment or a way to pass the time. But for those of us who are part of this culture and have spent years of our lives with this medium, the story is very different. We see games as works of art that can be deeply impactful. They can convey messages that influence our character and worldview—either directly or indirectly.

Unlike cinema or books, games don’t turn us into passive audiences. We move the story forward with our own hands, and sometimes we even make choices and face the consequences. In short, we play an active role in the narrative. That’s why we’re taking a look at titles that go beyond being just good games—they intelligently introduce us to important human values, and when they’re over, we might honestly say we’ve become better people because of them.

> Note: This list has no particular ranking.

1. Detroit: Become Human

Like other cinematic and interactive games from Quantic Dream, this title puts players at the center of a big question: What does it mean to be human, and where does humanity come from?

The game doesn't explore this through complex dialogue, but by placing us in the shoes of three androids on the verge of self-awareness. Detroit shows how concepts like love, unity, and family can blur the lines between humans and machines. It's full of difficult choices and conveys moral messages through the emotional impact of those decisions.

2. The Last of Us Part I

No one can deny that moral dilemmas are the core of both The Last of Us games. In Part I, the characters’ struggles revolve around love, sacrifice, and the prioritization of loved ones.

The complex relationship between Joel and Ellie forces players to ask tough questions: Where is the line between love and selfishness?

The game doesn’t give you a definitive answer—it wants you to decide. Joel’s controversial final choice may be right or wrong. What matters most is how you arrive at your answer. Even pure motivations like love can lead to complicated decisions, and the game teaches us to navigate between logic and emotion.

3. Valiant Hearts: The Great War

In an industry that often portrays war as exciting action-packed events, Valiant Hearts offers a deeply emotional and different take.

This heartfelt game avoids mature violence, instead showing the real, bitter, and cruel face of war. It focuses on ordinary people and the impact of war on their lives and relationships.

With minimal dialogue and strong visual storytelling, the game presents a touching narrative about love and friendship during wartime. It may forever change how you perceive war.

4. It Takes Two

This creative co-op game is more than just fun—it’s practically a relationship therapy session.

The story of a couple on the verge of divorce who become dolls and must work together is a clever setup to teach the value of communication.

The gameplay is built around mandatory cooperation. If you play it with your partner, you’ll experience stages that leave you feeling closer, more connected, and more accomplished.

It Takes Two reminds us that mutual understanding and teamwork are key to solving problems—both in games and in real life.

5. What Remains of Edith Finch

Strange games that become unexpectedly popular often offer the most meaningful experiences—and this is one of them.

Through unique storytelling and environmental design, you step into the shoes of Edith, the last member of the Finch family, and witness the final moments of her relatives’ lives.

This narrative-rich title helps you reflect on life, death, and how people deal with grief. It feels more like a visual novel and offers deep insight into coping with family loss.

6. Overcooked 2

At first glance, Overcooked 2 looks like a chaotic, stressful mess. And yes, early stages with friends might drive you crazy.

But soon, you’ll realize you’re learning crucial skills: teamwork under pressure and patience.

When things get intense, effective communication becomes essential. You learn to divide tasks, form strategies, and—most importantly—stay calm during mistakes.

This game subtly teaches that yelling and blaming don’t help; staying calm, talking things through, and planning ahead are the real keys to success.

7. Persona 5 Royal

The Persona series has a devoted fanbase in Iran, and those who’ve played it know it offers a deep experience.

Persona 5 Royal, as a long JRPG, teaches valuable lessons about social responsibility, self-acceptance, and friendship.

Its time management system forces you to balance daily life and responsibilities—great practice for real-world planning.

Its social bonding system shows that success comes from building strong relationships and supporting your friends.

8. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

As someone who has always admired the bold storytelling of this IP, I believe Hellblade II offers moral lessons far beyond a cinematic experience.

Senua, now more mature and determined, teaches us how to face our fears. Instead of blindly fighting, we must find the roots of our pain.

Her journey isn’t just personal—it becomes a mission to free others from oppression. That responsibility gives her the strength to carry on despite inner doubts and haunting voices.

This game is a powerful reflection on resilience, growth, and the courage to heal.

9. Frostpunk 2

Many games force you to choose between bad and worse, but Frostpunk 2 adds the burden of making those decisions for an entire society.

This harsh crisis-management simulator challenges you to weigh survival against morality.

Will you legalize child labor to keep your city warm?

Is technological progress worth sacrificing nature and humanity?

The game makes you think about long-term consequences. It’s a difficult but valuable exercise in leadership and understanding the cost of every path.

10. Red Dead Redemption 2

Though this list isn’t ranked, I saved Red Dead Redemption 2 for last because it personally affected me the most.

Of course, this varies from person to person, but for me, the game’s characters—and the honor and bravery hidden in a gang of outlaws—left a deep mark.

Arthur Morgan’s character showed me that it doesn’t matter where you start; what matters is where you end up and the legacy you leave behind.

Even in the darkest times, we can choose the right path and strive to be better.

Experiencing Arthur’s redemption reminded me each time that striving to be a better person is the most worthwhile journey in life.