The fusion of literature and gaming has given rise to a captivating genre of PC games based on books. In these digital adaptations, players can immerse themselves in the rich narratives and fantastical worlds crafted by renowned authors. These games offer a compelling blend of storytelling and interactive gameplay.
From epic high-fantasy tales to gripping crime mysteries, the world of literature has provided a diverse canvas for game developers to explore. These adaptations often stay true to the essence of the source material while adding a unique gaming twist.
Whether you’re a fan of exploring sprawling open worlds, solving intricate puzzles, or making morally complex decisions, there’s something for everyone among these literary-inspired PC games. Each title we’ll explore in this article on Naijaknowhow offers a fresh perspective on beloved stories. Without further ado, let’s delve right in!
List of the Best PC Games Based on Books to Play Right Now
Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey as we uncover the best PC games based on books. These titles breathe new life into familiar tales, inviting players to forge their own paths, uncover hidden secrets, and, in some cases, rewrite the narrative.
1. Dune: Spice Wars
Dune: Spice Wars is a real-time strategy (RTS) game set in the rich and expansive universe of Frank Herbert’s iconic science fiction series, “Dune.” Developed by Shiro Games, the game offers players the chance to immerse themselves in the complex and politically charged world of Arrakis, where spice is the most valuable resource in the universe.
The game’s narrative is deeply rooted in the lore of the Dune series, taking place on the desert planet of Arrakis, also known as Dune. Players step into the shoes of one of the great houses, such as House Atreides, House Harkonnen, or House Ordos, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses. The objective is to control Arrakis and its precious spice melange, which grants psychic abilities and is the cornerstone of interstellar commerce.
2. Dante’s Inferno
Dante’s Inferno is an action-adventure video game developed by Visceral Games and published by Electronic Arts. Released in 2010 for various platforms, including PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PlayStation Portable, the game is loosely based on the first part of Dante Alighieri’s epic poem, “The Divine Comedy,” specifically the “Inferno” section.
Gameplay in Dante’s Inferno is a blend of hack-and-slash combat, platforming, and puzzle-solving. Players wield a scythe as their primary weapon, and they can also acquire a Holy Cross for ranged attacks and magical abilities. The combat system allows for combos, and players can upgrade Dante’s abilities as they progress. The game is one of the best PC games based on books to play.
3. Call of Cthulhu
Call of Cthulhu is a tabletop role-playing game (RPG) renowned for its deep immersion in the works of H.P. Lovecraft, a master of horror fiction. First published in 1981 by Chaosium Inc., the game has undergone several editions and adaptations over the years, each refining its unique blend of cosmic horror, investigation, and character-driven storytelling.
Call of Cthulhu encourages a collaborative storytelling experience, emphasizing atmosphere, tension, and the gradual unveiling of horrors over combat or action-oriented gameplay. It’s a game that challenges players to confront the limits of human understanding and the frailty of their characters in the face of cosmic terror.
4. Conan Exiles
Conan Exiles is an open-world survival video game developed and published by Funcom. Released in early access in January 2017 and officially launched in May 2018, it offers players a gritty and immersive experience set in the fictional universe of Conan the Barbarian, created by Robert E. Howard.
The game begins with your character, an exile, being crucified in the harsh desert wasteland. You are rescued by Conan himself, and from there, your journey to survive and thrive in the brutal world of Hyboria begins. The core gameplay revolves around exploration, resource gathering, crafting, and building. Conan Exiles is considered one of the best PC games based on books.
5. Middle-earth: Shadow of War
Middle-earth: Shadow of War is an action-adventure video game set in J.R.R. Tolkien’s iconic fantasy world of Middle-earth. Developed by Monolith Productions and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, it serves as a direct sequel to the 2014 title, “Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor.”
The game’s narrative follows the protagonist, Talion, a Ranger of Gondor who is bonded with the spirit of the Elf Lord Celebrimbor. Together, they set out to continue their quest to defeat the Dark Lord Sauron and his minions. This story is set in the time between the events of “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, offering a unique perspective on the rich lore of Middle-earth.
6. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an open-world action role-playing game (RPG) developed by CD Projekt Red and released in 2015. It is the third installment in the popular Witcher series, based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski. The game is renowned for its immersive storytelling, expansive open world, and complex characters.
The game’s open world is vast and stunningly detailed, featuring diverse landscapes from lush forests to war-torn villages and bustling cities. Each location is filled with quests, side stories, and hidden secrets, making exploration a rewarding and captivating experience. The world feels alive, populated by NPCs with their own stories and routines. The Witcher 3 is no doubt, one of the best PC games based on books to play.
7. Sherlock Holmes Chapter One
Sherlock Holmes Chapter One is an immersive detective adventure game developed by Frogwares and published by Nacon. Released in November 2021, it offers players a unique opportunity to step into the shoes of a young and ambitious Sherlock Holmes in the formative years of his detective career.
Set on the fictional island of Cordona, the game takes place before Sherlock Holmes becomes the renowned detective we know. Players are tasked with unraveling a complex web of mysteries, all while shaping Sherlock’s future and reputation. This island setting provides a refreshing departure from the typical London backdrop seen in most Holmes adaptations, giving the game a fresh and distinct atmosphere.
Conclusion
As technology continues to advance and storytelling in gaming reaches new heights, we can look forward to even more immersive adaptations of our favorite literary works. So, whether you’re a passionate bookworm or a dedicated gamer, exploring the enchanting world of PC games based on books is a journey well worth embarking upon.
