10 Video Games That Blend Joyful Endings with Tearful Moments
Video games have a unique way of pulling at your heartstrings, weaving stories that leave you both uplifted and emotional. Some games deliver happy endings that still bring tears, balancing hope with the weight of the journey.
I’ve always been moved by games that make you feel every step of the characters’ struggles, only to reward you with a bittersweet victory. Here are ten games with happy endings that still left me misty-eyed, ranked from tenth to first based on their emotional impact and critical acclaim, drawn from insights on platforms like Reddit and CBR.
To the Moon (2011)
‘To the Moon’ follows two scientists helping a dying man, Johnny, fulfill his dream of going to the moon through memory manipulation. Its pixel-art style and heartfelt story earned it praise for its emotional depth.
The happy ending, where Johnny’s memories are reshaped to give him peace, hits hard because of his tragic past with his wife, River. I cried knowing his joy came at the cost of reliving so much pain.
Undertale (2015)
‘Undertale’ lets you guide a child through a monster-filled world, with choices shaping a story that’s both funny and deep. The pacifist ending, where you befriend everyone, won awards for its heartwarming narrative.
Tears came for me as the characters found peace after their struggles, especially knowing their loneliness beforehand. Toby Fox’s music and quirky writing make the resolution feel so earned.
Final Fantasy IX (2000)
‘Final Fantasy IX’ follows Zidane and a band of heroes saving their world, earning acclaim for its vibrant art and story. The ending, where love and friendship triumph, is a classic in the RPG genre.
Vivi’s bittersweet fate and the reunion of Zidane and Garnet brought tears despite the joyful closure. The game’s themes of identity and sacrifice linger long after the credits roll.
The Walking Dead: Season 1 (2012)
‘The Walking Dead: Season 1’ puts you in Lee’s shoes, protecting young Clementine in a zombie apocalypse. Telltale Games’ narrative-driven title won over 90 awards for its gripping choices.
The ending, where Clementine finds safety but at a heavy cost, left me sobbing. Lee’s bond with her and his final moments make the happiness feel fragile yet profound.
Hades (2020)
‘Hades’ follows Zagreus escaping the Underworld to find his mother, Persephone, blending roguelike action with a family drama. Supergiant Games’ title won multiple awards for its gameplay and story.
The reunion of Zagreus’ family is heartwarming, but the journey’s emotional toll—his strained bond with Hades—made me tear up. The game’s humor and art make the happy ending even more touching.
NieR: Automata (2017)
‘NieR: Automata’ explores androids 2B, 9S, and A2 in a post-apocalyptic world, earning praise for its story and Yoko Taro’s direction. The true Ending E offers hope after bleak sacrifices.
I cried when the pods gave the characters a second chance at life, knowing their pain. The tough final shooter sequence, aided by other players’ data, adds a layer of shared humanity.
Life is Strange (2015)
‘Life is Strange’ follows Max, a teen with time-rewind powers, saving her friend Chloe and their town. Dontnod’s game won awards for its emotional narrative and choice-driven gameplay.
The ‘Bay’ ending, where Max saves Arcadia Bay, is happy for the town but heartbreaking for her. I teared up over her sacrifice, amplified by the game’s haunting soundtrack.
Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)
‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ tracks Arthur Morgan’s life as an outlaw seeking redemption, earning over 175 awards for its world and story. Rockstar Games crafted a Western epic that’s unforgettable.
Arthur’s peaceful end, passing the torch to John Marston, felt hopeful yet crushing. His quiet reflection on his life’s choices had me in tears, despite the brighter future ahead.
The Last of Us (2013)
‘The Last of Us’ follows Joel and Ellie in a post-apocalyptic world, winning over 250 awards for its story and performances. Naughty Dog’s game is a benchmark for emotional storytelling.
The ending, where Ellie finds a fragile safety with Joel, is hopeful but heavy with their shared trauma. I cried over their bond, knowing the lies and losses that shaped it.
Xenoblade Chronicles (2010)
‘Xenoblade Chronicles’ follows Shulk on a quest to save his world, earning acclaim for its massive world and story. Monolith Soft’s RPG delivers a triumphant ending that reshapes reality.
The happy resolution, where Shulk’s sacrifices restore peace, still broke me because of the emotional weight of his journey. The music and friendships made the victory feel deeply personal.
Which game’s ending hit you hardest, or is there another tearjerker I missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments
