23 Video Games to Get Lost in Self-Isolating

The Best Video Games to Get Lost in While Self-Isolating

Within days, "Animal Crossing" fans will be able to travel to the island paradise and build a community when "New Horizons" is finally released. For gamers with diverse tastes, on the same day, "Doom: Eternal" allows those at home to battle through the demonic powers of hell. Either way, this is an escape.

And for many, the present requires a break from reality. Because the US and other governments are advising citizens to stay indoors during the coronavirus pandemic, there are few better options for entertainment than self-detaching, rather than diving into a new video game.

Whether you're trying to find a game to play with your family or just want to get some social interaction online, "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" and "Doom: Eternal" need something to hold you back. Here are some great games to dump for a few (hundred) hours.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Giddy-up, cowboy. As Arthur Morgan was banned, gamers travel across the declining Wild West, completing their objectives, fighting against bandits, rival gangs and law enforcement. Along the way, players explore the vast, detailed open world and meet a wide range of characters, opening up an in-depth, ambitious narrative that has been hailed as one of the best in video games.

(Available: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Stadia)

Last of Us: Remastered

If you want to board the "our last" train, now would be a great time to do so. Its bonafide speaks for itself: HBO is developing the series based on the HBO game, which has received critical acclaim and is one of the best-selling PlayStation 4 titles of all time. Its sequel is set for release on May 29.

(Available: PlayStation 4)

The Walking Dead

There are already plenty of reasons for fans of "The Walking Dead" TV series and comic book to check out Telltale's episodic series, but even for those who don't, Clementine's fight through the zombie apocalypse is worth pursuing. Additionally, four seasons of the game are available, offering a ton of sinking narrative (and dramatic options for agony).

(Available: iOS, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One)

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Netflix's TV series based on high-fantasy novels is a widely loved video game, following Rivia's witch Gerald as he searches for his long-lost lover and adopted daughter. Even if you haven't played the previous two games in this series (or read the books or seen the series), it doesn't take long for "Wild Hunt" to have a great story and a huge open world.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch)

If you want to explore the wide open world:

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - Special Edition

It’s never too late to start playing a game that has triggered countless open world titles since then. The fifth installment of the "Elder Scrolls" series has completely reinvented the genre and, despite dozens of glitches (some of which are charming and hilarious, some of which are angry and quirky), it contains a particularly reworked edition.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch)

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Trust the hype: it's really good. The latest entry in the series "The Legend of Zelda" allows the franchise to explore a beautiful, heavy world of fresh air. Whether Link is miles away in a valley, solving a shrine puzzle or clobbering through bocoblins, there is always something to do.

(Available: Nintendo Switch, Wii U)

Cuphead

"Cuphead" can be quite challenging at times, it's easy to forget to appreciate the awesome, 30s cartoon-style animation - but you shouldn't. Additionally, the indie run-and-gun title has a two-player option, in case you and your social distance friend want to be harmoniously angry.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, MacOS, Nintendo Switch)

Dark Souls: Remastered

You can't discuss the difficulty in video games without raising "Dark Souls". The game is unforgivable, generating countless angry albums and Twitch challenges - but it makes the success even more rewarding.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One)

Bloodborne

Often compared to the "Souls" series, "Bloodborne" has another challenging, skill-based combat system and does not require the faint of heart. However, there is a world of deep lore and interconnectedness to fight and explore it.

(Available: PlayStation 4)

If you are looking for a way to distract yourself and your significant other:

Overcooked 2

An easy title to choose from for gamers and non-gamers alike, this cooking simulator will test your communication skills (for better or worse). Play longer and you and your significant other will work like a well oiled machine.

(Available: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Mac, Xbox One)

Human: Fall Flat

This intriguing puzzle-platformer provides some sensitivity to stressful couples. For those who don’t want to opt for the multiplayer option, sitting back is a ridiculous game.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, Linux, MacOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android)

Super Smash Bros: Ultimate

If you're not afraid that competition can damage your relationship, consider the best entry in the "Smash" franchise. With very balanced spells, players can shoot for hours trying out all of them (or practice on improving their lead).

(Available: Nintendo Switch)

If you entertain children (but also have fun):

Super Mario Odyssey

"Super Mario Odyssey" has the feel and enjoyment of old Mario Brothers games, while being fresh and new. Whether you are a young gamer who has never tried a franchise or you miss the days of "Super Mario 64", it is definitely fun.

(Available: Nintendo Switch)

Pokemon sword and Shield

Players who haven't taken the Pokemon title for a while (or ever!) Can enjoy "Sword and Shield" and its Great Britain-inspired territory. Additionally, there are two expansion packs coming out later this year, so this is a great time to learn.

(Available: Nintendo Switch)

If you want to train your brain while you are in bed:

Portal 2

One of the main inventors of modern puzzle-platformers, "Portal 2" and its predecessors are worth playing for anyone who wants to break into the genre. It also lags far behind the puzzles: with dark comedy, memorable characters and stellar acting, "Portal 2" has received critical acclaim.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360)

The Witness

The puzzles of “witness” can be challenging to be sure, but there are some good choices to make your brain work. Although the players may occasionally feel entangled, the puzzles are never insurmountable and surrounded by fascinating art.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nvidia Shield, MacOS, iOS)

If you're looking for a simpler time:

Tetris 99

It's "Tetris" - with friends! And in 2020! In the new take on the classic game, 99 players are trying to complete a series while knocking each other out. Get a classic feel with a competitive spin.

(Available: Nintendo Switch)

Puzzle Fighter HD

Play as your favorite "Street Fighter" characters in this fast and fun retro puzzler as "cute-eyed" versions. You can play against your best social distance mate or against A.I.

(Available: Xbox 360)

If you are a social distance and want to play with friends online:

Fortnite

Okay, so this is definitely not an original recommendation, but what better time than now to choose a Battle Royale sensation to play for free? Build, shoot, and dance with your friends in a colorful phenomenon that attracts more than 250 million players.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, Android)

Apex Legends

Another free-to-play bottle royal title and a worthy contender for "Fortnight", "Apex Legends" has been praised for its breathtaking combat and genre mix. Its "ping" system makes it easy to access, making it very unnecessary if not preferred to voice chat.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One)

Overwatch

One of the best multiplayer shooters that has come out in recent years, "Overwatch" is a colorful world, exquisite gameplay and a variety of characters that can be reached, but its mechanics put you and your friends' teamwork skills to the test.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch)

Starting a new life seems completely appealing:

Stardew Valley

"Stardew Valley" is often described as "doing things, but fun," and that's not entirely wrong. Dedicating life on the farm, raising livestock, cultivating crops, making friends with the villagers, and starting a family - it's not tranquil and addictive.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita, iOS, Android)

The Sims 4

Anyone looking to kill time can find some better options than "The Sims". Start the perfect family, make progress in your career or ruin your stuff - you choose! Sims lives are as nonsense as the player wants.

(Available: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One)