Point-and-Click Lives On, Crafting Some of the Most Memorable Stories in Gaming History
Remember when your greatest weapon in gaming wasn't a rifle or a magic spell, but an impossibly large inventory filled with pocketed crowbars, rubber chickens, and that one random fish you picked up "just in case"? Point-and-click adventure games haven't just survived—they've thrived, weaving some of the richest storytelling of the last two decades into quirky puzzles and delightfully absurd scenarios. So dust off your detective hat, double-check your logic (and your illogic), and get ready to revisit the modern classics: here are the 16 best point-and-click adventure games of the 21st century.
16. Fran Bow (2015)
If Lewis Carroll had teamed up with Tim Burton for a late-night brainstorming session, the beautifully bizarre Fran Bow would be their unsettling masterpiece. Released by Killmonday Games in 2015, this indie gem plunges players into the shoes of Fran, a young girl whose life spirals into madness after witnessing her parents' brutal murder. Locked away in an asylum and haunted by visions both whimsical and grotesque, Fran embarks on a journey to unravel the truth—with only her loyal cat, Mr. Midnight, for company. What sets Fran Bow apart isn't just its point-and-click gameplay, but its striking art style, dark fairy-tale narrative, and puzzles that dance gracefully between logic and sheer lunacy. Beneath the eerie visuals and grim humor lies a poignant story exploring childhood trauma, grief, and resilience. It’s delightfully macabre, charmingly twisted, and genuinely heartfelt—making Fran Bow not only one of the best adventures of the century but a modern cult classic you'll never quite shake off.
15. Dark Fall: The Journal (2002)
If you've ever wondered what happens when classic ghost stories collide with moody, atmospheric puzzles, look no further than Dark Fall: The Journal. Released in 2002 by indie creator Jonathan Boakes, this eerie point-and-click adventure invites players to the sleepy English village of Dowerton, home to a haunted train station and an abandoned hotel brimming with chilling secrets. Stepping into the shoes of an investigator, you sift through forgotten letters, crack cryptic codes, and uncover sinister supernatural forces lurking in the shadows. The game masterfully blends slow-building suspense with challenging puzzles, rewarding sharp-eyed sleuthing and patient exploration. Dark Fall’s strength lies in its richly detailed environments, unsettling sound design, and storytelling that evokes classic horror literature, drawing inspiration from Lovecraftian dread and Victorian ghost tales. Two decades later, its chilling atmosphere and intricate narrative still captivate, cementing Dark Fall: The Journal as an essential entry for fans of spine-tingling, old-school mysteries that linger long after lights out.
14. The Black Mirror (2003)
Long before Netflix made the phrase famous, The Black Mirror was already sending shivers down spines—just in point-and-click form. Released by Future Games in 2003, this Gothic horror mystery unfolds like a dark Victorian novel, steeped in family curses, hidden madness, and brooding atmospheres. Players follow Samuel Gordon, reluctantly returning to his ancestral home, Black Mirror Castle, after the tragic death of his grandfather. But grief soon gives way to suspicion, as Samuel unearths chilling secrets buried deep within the estate’s gloomy halls. Combining traditional adventure-game mechanics with evocative storytelling, The Black Mirror immerses you in a haunting world of intricate puzzles, suspenseful narrative twists, and richly detailed environments dripping with atmosphere. It's a slow burn, rewarding patience and thoughtful investigation, as each discovery pushes Samuel—and you—closer to the brink of sanity. More than two decades later, its shadowy tale still resonates, proving that sometimes the most chilling horrors are those waiting patiently behind a locked door.
13. Unavowed (2018)
Demons, detectives, and decisions, oh my! If you've ever fancied solving supernatural mysteries while juggling your own inner turmoil, Unavowed is your darkly delightful invitation. Released in 2018 by Wadjet Eye Games, this urban fantasy adventure throws you headfirst into the shadowy alleys of New York City, freshly freed from demonic possession (hey, we've all had rough weeks). Now, you're recruited by the mysterious Unavowed—an underground society protecting humanity from things that go bump in the night. Combining classic point-and-click mechanics with RPG-style party choices, the game lets you assemble your team of magical misfits, each richly developed and bursting with personality. Your dialogue choices meaningfully shape the narrative, ensuring no two playthroughs feel the same. Packed with clever puzzles, snappy dialogue, and a plot that seamlessly blends noir detective tropes with dark humor, Unavowed doesn't just revive the adventure genre—it redefines it. Whether you're a supernatural skeptic or a true believer, this brilliantly witty thriller demands your attention.
12. Return to Monkey Island (2022)
Ahoy, adventure lovers! After decades of longing, 2022's Return to Monkey Island sails triumphantly back into port, recapturing the witty magic of gaming’s most beloved pirate series. Crafted by legendary creators Ron Gilbert and Dave Grossman, this swashbuckling reunion plunges players back into the charmingly absurd shoes of Guybrush Threepwood, Mighty Pirate™. Set shortly after Monkey Island 2: LeChuck’s Revenge, the game is both a loving tribute and a fresh voyage filled with sharp humor, nostalgic callbacks, and puzzle-solving brilliance. Gilbert’s signature comedic touch is sharper than ever, breathing vibrant life into classic characters and fresh faces alike. Cleverly updated mechanics ensure puzzles are brain-teasingly challenging but rarely frustrating—keeping you entertained rather than marooned. Gorgeously illustrated visuals and witty dialogue merge seamlessly, proving that modern graphics and timeless storytelling can coexist in perfect harmony. For newcomers and veteran buccaneers alike, Return to Monkey Island is proof that you truly can go home again—even if it's on a pirate ship.
11. Norco (2022)
Prepare yourself: Norco isn't just a point-and-click game—it's a fever dream wrapped in pixel art, simmering with Southern Gothic charm. Released in 2022 by Geography of Robots, this narrative-driven mystery unfolds in the shadowy corners of a near-future Louisiana, where industrial decay meets haunting beauty. Players assume the role of Kay, returning home after her mother's death, only to find her brother missing and her hometown gripped by unsettling conspiracies and surreal mysteries. Blending poetic storytelling with gorgeously grimy pixel visuals, Norco plunges you into a world filled with eccentric characters, cryptic puzzles, and deeply philosophical themes. Its narrative dances effortlessly between cyberpunk dystopia and Southern folklore, resulting in a uniquely atmospheric experience that lingers long after the credits roll. With a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack and dialogue that captures the bittersweet poetry of loss, hope, and humanity, Norco sets a new standard in storytelling, firmly establishing itself as one of this century's most unforgettable adventures.
10. Rusty Lake (2015)
Step right up to the surreal, eerie shores of Rusty Lake, where puzzles are peculiar, secrets lurk everywhere, and nothing is quite what it seems. Developed by the twisted masterminds at Rusty Lake Studio since 2015, this series of interconnected adventures combines point-and-click mechanics with escape-room style puzzles, set against a backdrop of delightfully macabre storytelling. Each game—from Rusty Lake Hotel to Roots and Paradise—is a chapter in a mind-bending saga filled with enigmatic characters, dark humor, and unsettling mysteries just waiting to be unraveled. The series' distinctively minimal yet captivating visuals pair perfectly with puzzles that teeter between logic and madness, keeping players simultaneously fascinated and unnerved. Beneath its bizarre surface lies a cleverly layered narrative exploring themes of memory, identity, and existential dread, stitched together with uncanny charm and subtle horror. Equal parts absurd, captivating, and chillingly addictive, Rusty Lake isn't just an adventure—it’s a rabbit hole from which you might never fully escape.
9. Unforeseen Incidents (2018)
Conspiracy theorists rejoice! Unforeseen Incidents is your passport into a world of paranoia, pandemics, and delightfully dry humor. Developed by Backwoods Entertainment and released in 2018, this stylish thriller drops you into the shoes of Harper Pendrell, an adorably reluctant handyman whose quiet life in Yelltown unravels after stumbling upon a dying woman—and a sinister government conspiracy. What follows is a gripping, puzzle-filled adventure that channels classic ’90s vibes through beautifully hand-drawn artwork and sharp, witty dialogue that keeps you smiling, even amid dark themes. Whether you're decoding cryptic broadcasts, interrogating eccentric locals, or fumbling with makeshift tools, the game’s puzzles strike a pitch-perfect balance: challenging enough to satisfy seasoned adventurers, yet intuitive enough to avoid hair-pulling frustration. Beneath its humorous veneer, Unforeseen Incidents tackles timely subjects like misinformation and public health crises with intelligence and nuance, creating a rich narrative tapestry that makes it a standout—and surprisingly prescient—point-and-click gem for the modern era.
8. Machinarium (2009)
If robots had hearts, Machinarium would surely tug at every mechanical valve. Released in 2009 by Amanita Design, this whimsical, steampunk-infused gem is as charming as it is inventive, casting players as Josef—a plucky, lovable robot dumped on the outskirts of a sprawling mechanical city. Armed with nothing but cleverness (and occasionally extendable limbs), Josef embarks on a quest to rescue his kidnapped girlfriend and thwart a gang of metal-headed villains. Without dialogue or text, Machinarium conveys emotion through expressive animation, breathtaking hand-drawn visuals, and a quirky yet melancholy soundtrack. Each puzzle challenges your creativity and ingenuity, ranging from logic-based brain teasers to delightfully unconventional solutions that’ll leave you grinning triumphantly. What sets Machinarium apart is its heartwarming storytelling, conveying friendship, courage, and love without a single spoken word. This modern classic proves that a world made entirely of bolts and gears can still pulse with genuine warmth, making it an essential adventure-game experience and an unforgettable journey.
7. Ben There, Dan That! / Time Gentlemen, Please! (2008 – 2009)
Meet Ben and Dan: two Brits whose greatest skill is bumbling into interdimensional chaos—and somehow saving the world anyway. Released by Size Five Games, Ben There, Dan That! (2008) and its sequel, Time Gentlemen, Please! (2009), form a gloriously irreverent duo of adventures that lovingly parody the golden age of point-and-click games. Featuring razor-sharp dialogue brimming with self-aware humor, pop-culture jabs, and unapologetically silly logic, these games follow our hapless heroes through absurd scenarios involving time travel, alternate realities, and Nazi dinosaurs (because why not?). The puzzles hit that sweet spot between clever and hilariously nonsensical, often leaving you laughing out loud while scratching your head. Visually, the charmingly crude art style perfectly matches the tongue-in-cheek tone, proving that adventure games don’t need flashy graphics to be unforgettable. Overflowing with witty British banter, surreal twists, and an infectiously playful spirit, Ben There, Dan That! and Time Gentlemen, Please! are a dynamic comedic duo no adventure fan should overlook.
6. Strong Bad’s Cool Game For Attractive People (2008)
Ever wondered what life’s like as an egocentric luchador-mask-wearing troublemaker with a typing problem? Wonder no more, because Strong Bad’s Cool Game for Attractive People is here to show you exactly that. Developed by Telltale Games in 2008 and based on the beloved Homestar Runner web cartoon, this episodic adventure plunges you into Strong Bad’s wonderfully absurd universe, packed with quirky friends, questionable schemes, and hilariously self-absorbed commentary. Whether he's sabotaging Homestar's life, concocting harebrained business ideas, or crafting epic rock operas, every moment brims with the irreverent humor fans adore. True to its point-and-click roots, puzzles are inventive, goofy, and deliciously nonsensical, perfectly matching the game’s offbeat comedic spirit. It also shines visually, capturing the flash-cartoon charm of its online origins with vibrant colors and distinctive animations. Overflowing with playful dialogue, bizarrely delightful mini-games, and heaps of fan-service, Strong Bad’s Cool Game for Attractive People stands out as a must-play comedy adventure, attractive or otherwise.
5. Thimbleweed Park (2017)
Imagine if Twin Peaks collided head-on with The X-Files—then sprinkle in some razor-sharp humor and nostalgia for classic LucasArts adventures. That's Thimbleweed Park, a lovingly crafted 2017 neo-noir mystery from genre legend Ron Gilbert and Terrible Toybox. Set in a sleepy, pixelated town where everyone has secrets (and the population mysteriously dwindles), the game kicks off with a murder investigation involving two federal agents who absolutely don't trust each other. But beneath the surface, things quickly spiral into absurdity, conspiracy, and wonderfully bizarre characters—including a washed-up clown with anger issues and a ghost desperate for answers. Puzzles walk the fine line between clever and delightfully absurd, capturing the charm of vintage adventure games without frustrating modern sensibilities. Thimbleweed Park thrives on nostalgia but never relies solely on it; sharp dialogue, witty self-awareness, and quirky plot twists keep it fresh and endlessly entertaining. Equal parts creepy, funny, and brilliant, it’s a must-play that proves classic adventure gaming never truly dies.
4. Kathy Rain (2016)
If you prefer your mysteries served noir-style with a side of ’90s nostalgia, Kathy Rain is the sharp-edged adventure you've been craving. Released by Clifftop Games in 2016, this stylishly dark point-and-click thriller introduces Kathy, a rebellious journalism student with a motorcycle, attitude, and a knack for getting into trouble. Returning to her sleepy hometown after her grandfather's mysterious death, Kathy plunges into a complex web of local secrets, supernatural phenomena, and her own buried past. Every puzzle and interaction drips with atmospheric tension, smartly balancing gritty realism with moments of eerie surrealism. The game's retro pixel-art visuals evoke classic adventure-game aesthetics, perfectly complemented by compelling voice acting and a hauntingly moody soundtrack. Beneath Kathy’s sardonic wit and leather jacket beats the heart of a deeply personal story exploring grief, trauma, and redemption. With its intelligent storytelling, gripping narrative twists, and memorable characters, Kathy Rain stands tall as a modern classic, as gritty and captivating as its unstoppable heroine.
3. Perfect Tides (2022)
Navigating adolescence is tough enough—but doing it online, circa 2000, on a tiny island off the coast of New York? Welcome to Perfect Tides, Meredith Gran’s evocative 2022 coming-of-age adventure. You step into the sneakers of Mara Whitefish, a moody teen longing for connection and meaning amid the isolation of island life. Here, nostalgia isn't just set dressing; it's a portal into an era of dial-up internet, clunky forums, and raw adolescent emotion. Mara’s deeply personal journey unfolds through carefully observed moments, sharp writing, and puzzles grounded firmly in the awkward realities of teenage life. Whether it's anxiously navigating social encounters, escaping into digital friendships, or confronting profound loss, Perfect Tides beautifully captures the bittersweet essence of growing up. Gran's signature expressive pixel art brings warmth, humor, and authenticity, matched by storytelling so genuine it often stings. Equal parts wistful, funny, and achingly honest, Perfect Tides reminds us that sometimes, adventure isn't about saving the world—it's about surviving yourself.
2. The Excavation of Hob’s Barrow (2022)
Grab your lantern and brace yourself—The Excavation of Hob’s Barrow is a sinister descent into folk horror that’ll burrow beneath your skin. Released by Cloak and Dagger Games in 2022, this Victorian-era point-and-click tale places you in the shoes of Thomasina Bateman, a determined antiquarian summoned to the dreary English village of Bewlay. What starts as a simple archaeological dig quickly spirals into unsettling discoveries, eldritch whispers, and escalating paranoia. The game excels at blending atmospheric dread with thoughtful storytelling, immersing players in puzzles as meticulously crafted as the barrow itself. Richly detailed pixel art perfectly captures the gloom of the rural countryside, while hauntingly subtle sound design heightens the tension lurking behind every click. Thomasina's increasingly unsettling encounters with eccentric locals and inexplicable phenomena evoke classic folk-horror films, building steadily toward a finale that resonates long after the credits roll. Dark, compelling, and utterly chilling, The Excavation of Hob’s Barrow digs deep, unearthing adventure gaming gold.
1. The Crimson Diamond (2024)
Step aside, modern graphics—The Crimson Diamond is here to remind us why retro point-and-click adventures never truly go out of style. Developed by Julia Minamata, this indie gem (currently in development but already acclaimed via its demo) brilliantly channels classic Sierra-era nostalgia, transporting players back to the heyday of text parser adventures and pixel-perfect mysteries. You play as Nancy Maple, an aspiring young mineralogist (yes, it's as wonderfully niche as it sounds) invited to a remote Ontario mansion to appraise a rare gemstone discovery. Naturally, murder, intrigue, and delightfully intricate puzzles quickly ensue. The game boasts authentic EGA-style pixel art bursting with vibrant charm, smartly designed puzzles, and characters dripping with personality. But it’s the clever writing and careful homage to vintage gameplay—complete with text parser—that truly set it apart, evoking warm memories of typing commands and delighting in clever responses. For adventure fans craving an authentic throwback infused with fresh storytelling, The Crimson Diamond sparkles brightly.
Point-and-click adventure games aren't just relics of nostalgia—they're proof that sometimes the most powerful gaming weapon isn't a rocket launcher, but a rubber chicken and a sharp wit. From pirate-infested islands to eerie Victorian mansions, from moody noir mysteries to existential rabbit holes you might never escape, these sixteen gems remind us why clicking around a screen and combining absurd inventory items still feels oddly heroic. Adventure, after all, is less about where you're going and more about the delightfully illogical way you get there. So keep those pockets inexplicably roomy, your puzzle-solving logic loose, and your sense of humor even looser—because as these titles prove, the genre isn't just alive, it's thriving, clicking, and quirkier than ever.
