Full-motion video (FMV) games are making a serious comeback, and honestly? It’s about time. There’s something uniquely immersive about blending live-action footage with interactive gameplay, and the best FMV games know exactly how to pull you in—whether it’s with gripping narratives, eerie atmosphere, or choices that actually matter.
If you’re looking for the best full-motion video games to dive into, you’re in the right place. From cult classics to modern cinematic masterpieces, FMV games offer a one-of-a-kind experience that blurs the line between gaming and film. Whether you want to solve a mystery, survive a horror story, or just see how far your choices can take you, there’s an FMV game out there for you.
Late Shift
If you’ve ever wanted to star in your own high-stakes crime thriller (minus the actual legal consequences), Late Shift is the FMV game for you. This interactive heist movie throws you into the life of Matt, a regular guy who suddenly finds himself neck-deep in a robbery gone wrong. And the best part? Every decision you make shapes the story, leading to one of seven different endings. No pressure.
Unlike some FMV games that feel clunky or disconnected, Late Shift plays out like a seamless movie. The transitions between choices are smooth, and there’s no awkward looping footage to remind you that you’re playing a game. The acting is solid, the writing (by Sherlock Holmes screenwriter Michael R. Johnson) keeps things tense, and the London setting adds to the slick, cinematic feel.
The choices come fast, so there’s no time for second-guessing—hesitate, and the game moves on without you. It’s an adrenaline rush, but also a great way to test your instincts under pressure.
If you love crime dramas, interactive storytelling, or just the idea of making (mostly bad) life choices from the safety of your couch, Late Shift is absolutely worth a playthrough.
Immortality
If you’ve ever wanted to play detective in a Hollywood mystery, Immortality is your game. This FMV experience dives into the enigma of Marissa Marcel, an actress who starred in three movies that, for some reason, were never released. Now, Marissa has vanished without a trace. Your mission? Sift through a treasure trove of lost footage to uncover what really happened.
The game hands you the director’s chair, letting you piece together scenes from Marissa’s unreleased films. It’s like being a film editor and a detective rolled into one. The narrative is non-linear, so you’re in control of how the mystery unfolds. Each clip you discover adds a new layer to the story, keeping you hooked as you dig deeper into the rabbit hole.
What sets Immortality apart is its commitment to authenticity. The developers meticulously recreated the look and feel of different cinematic eras, making each film within the game feel distinct and true to its time. The acting is top-notch, with performances that draw you into the drama both on and off the screen.
However, be prepared for a game that challenges you. The story is complex, and the game doesn’t hold your hand. You might find it a bit perplexing, but if you’re up for a narrative that makes you think and rewards curiosity, Immortality delivers a unique and immersive experience.
The Complex
If you’ve ever wondered how you’d handle a high-stakes biohazard situation (without actually risking infection), The Complex is here to test you. This FMV sci-fi thriller drops you into a locked-down lab with a dangerous pathogen, corporate secrets, and choices that could mean life or death. So, you know, just another relaxing day at the office.
You play as Dr. Amy Tenant, a scientist trying to contain an outbreak while navigating moral dilemmas, shady conspiracies, and some seriously questionable co-workers. Every decision you make shapes the story, leading to one of eight possible endings. Some choices feel huge, while others are more subtle—but they all add up.
The production values are solid, with great performances and a sharp, modern look. That said, there are moments where it feels more like watching a movie than playing a game, and not every decision has a massive impact. Still, if you’re into tense, choice-driven stories with a sci-fi twist, The Complex is worth a playthrough.
Phantasmagoria
If you’re up for a nostalgic trip into ’90s horror gaming, Phantasmagoria is a title that stands out—though not always for the reasons you’d hope. This FMV adventure was groundbreaking in its ambition, blending live-action performances with interactive gameplay. You step into the shoes of Adrienne Delaney, a writer who, along with her husband, moves into a mysterious mansion with a dark past. As you explore, unsettling events unfold, and it’s up to you to uncover the mansion’s secrets before they consume you.
The game was a technical marvel for its time, featuring real actors and digitized environments. However, the execution didn’t quite match the vision. The acting often veers into unintentional comedy, and the dialogue can be painfully cheesy. Gameplay-wise, it’s a point-and-click adventure with puzzles that range from simplistic to obscure, sometimes leaving you wandering the mansion without clear direction.
Despite its flaws, Phantasmagoria holds a certain charm, especially if you appreciate campy horror and can overlook its dated mechanics. It’s a product of its era, reflecting both the innovative spirit and the limitations of mid-’90s game development. If you’re in the mood for a quirky, spooky experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this game might just be worth your time.
Wing Commander 3
If you’ve ever wanted to command a starfighter with Luke Skywalker himself at the helm, Wing Commander III: Heart of the Tiger is your ticket to the stars. This 1994 classic didn’t just push the envelope—it blasted it into hyperspace by blending intense space combat with full-motion video (FMV) storytelling, featuring none other than Mark Hamill as Colonel Christopher “Maverick” Blair.
Set against the backdrop of a decade-long war between the Terran Confederation and the feline-like Kilrathi, you step into Blair’s boots, making tactical decisions in the cockpit and moral choices aboard the carrier TCS Victory. The game’s branching narrative means your actions directly influence the outcome, offering multiple paths and endings.
The FMV sequences were groundbreaking for their time, with a cast that included Malcolm McDowell and John Rhys-Davies. While the acting can be a bit over-the-top (in a charming ’90s way), it adds a cinematic flair that was revolutionary back then. The space combat missions are where the game truly shines, delivering fast-paced dogfights with a variety of ships and loadouts to keep things fresh.
Sure, by today’s standards, the graphics are dated, and the controls might feel clunky, but the game’s ambition and storytelling still hold up. If you’re a fan of space operas or just want to experience a piece of gaming history that dared to mix Hollywood with interactive gameplay, Wing Commander III is worth strapping in for.
Just remember: in space, no one can hear you geek out.
Erica
If you’re into gripping psychological thrillers that let you call the shots, Erica is the FMV game to try. You play as Erica Mason, a woman whose father’s mysterious death sets off a chain of creepy events involving cults, family secrets, and way too many unsettling clues.
What makes Erica stand out is how it mixes film with interactive gameplay. The performances are solid (seriously, Holly Earl nails it as Erica), and the game’s use of your smartphone or PS4 touchpad to make decisions feels super natural. It’s like you’re really part of the story.
The plot is full of twists, and while some choices might not feel as impactful as others, the suspense never lets up. Plus, there are multiple endings, so replaying it to uncover everything is half the fun. It’s a short but intense experience—perfect for a late-night gaming session where you want a story that pulls you in.
Telling Lies
If you’re the kind of person who loves unraveling mysteries but doesn’t have time to become a full-time detective, Telling Lies is basically your dream game. You’ll spend your time snooping through a bunch of video clips, piecing together the story of four people, and trust me—there’s a lot to uncover.
The twist? You’re doing all this by searching for keywords that lead you to new videos. So it’s like being a digital detective, with everything at your fingertips—but don’t get too comfortable, because the game loves to throw curveballs. One moment you’ll think you’ve cracked the case, and the next, you’ll be like, “Wait, what was that about a secret meeting?”
The acting in Telling Lies is top-tier (Logan Marshall-Green, anyone?) and the whole thing feels like you’re watching a tense, high-stakes drama unfold. But here’s the thing: it’s easy to get lost in all the details. You’ll find yourself down a rabbit hole of videos, trying to connect the dots. It’s fun, but it can get overwhelming.
So, if you’re up for some serious investigative work with a side of drama, Telling Lies is a wild ride. Just keep your wits about you, because the lies pile up fast.
As Dusk Falls
If you’re into gripping stories where your choices actually matter, As Dusk Falls is a must-play. This interactive drama from Interior/Night kicks off in 1998 with a robbery gone wrong in a small Arizona town, setting the stage for a tale of betrayal, sacrifice, and resilience that spans three decades.
The game’s art style is like a motion comic come to life—think bold, painterly visuals that make every scene pop. The voice acting? Top-notch. Characters feel real, and their struggles hit home. Plus, the choices you make? They pack a punch, steering the story in directions you might not expect.
One of the coolest features is the multiplayer mode. You and your friends can jump in, make decisions together, and see how your choices stack up against theirs. It’s like watching a TV show, but you’re the director.
Now, no game is perfect. Some action scenes feel a bit out of place, and the ending might leave you wanting more. But overall, As Dusk Falls is a standout in the interactive drama genre. If you’re into stories that make you think and characters that stick with you, give it a go.
Twelve Minutes
If you’re into mind-bending puzzles and time loops that will make you question your sanity, Twelve Minutes might be your new obsession. It’s like Groundhog Day but with murder, mystery, and a very creepy home invasion. And yes, you’re stuck in a 12-minute loop—over and over and over again.
Here’s the deal: you play as a guy trying to figure out what the heck is going on in his apartment after his wife is accused of murder, and everything keeps resetting. The twist? You’re given just twelve minutes each time to piece together clues, make decisions, and maybe change the course of fate.
The voice acting is top-tier (James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, Willem Dafoe—need I say more?), and while the story is a wild ride, the looped gameplay can get a little tedious. You might find yourself stuck, unsure of what to try next. But the fun comes from experimenting—trying different actions, seeing how everything falls apart, and thinking, “Okay, now I’m getting somewhere.”
If you’re up for some trial-and-error puzzle-solving with a mind-bending twist, Twelve Minutes has you covered. Just remember, patience is key—or maybe a whole lot of trial and error.
Honorable Mentions (Fun FMV Games/Interactive Movies to Try)
These games and interactive movies might not be winning any awards for serious storytelling, but that’s exactly what makes them so much fun. They’re cheesy, silly, and packed with over-the-top drama, perfect for when you want to kick back, relax, and enjoy some lighthearted entertainment. If you’re not looking for anything too deep and just want to have a good time with outrageous plots and questionable decisions, these titles will definitely do the trick.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs the Reverend
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. The Reverend is the quirky, interactive adventure we didn’t know we needed. In this choose-your-own-adventure special, Kimmy’s back in full force, ready to take on the Reverend in a ridiculous quest to save more girls and, you know, get married. It’s Kimmy’s world, and we’re just living in it.
You’re in control of Kimmy’s choices, which means one thing—total chaos. Make the wrong decision, and you’ll end up in some wild, out-there scenario that’ll have you laughing out loud. The game keeps things fresh with different paths and outcomes, so every decision counts. Seriously, Kimmy will never do things by the book.
Ellie Kemper is her usual hilarious self, and the gang—Tituss, Jacqueline, and the rest—bring their A-game to make sure the laughs keep rolling. The whole thing feels like the show, just in a more interactive format, and if you’re a fan, that’s definitely a bonus.
Sure, the novelty of choosing your path might wear off after a while, but if you’re in the mood for some lighthearted fun with a lot of laughs, Kimmy vs The Reverend is exactly what you’re looking for.
Death Come True
Death Come True is a strange, mind-bending ride that mixes a little bit of mystery, some sci-fi, and a whole lot of twists. You play as a guy named Makoto who wakes up in a hotel room, confused, with no memory of who he is—and then he finds himself caught up in a murder mystery. But here’s the kicker: every time he dies, he gets to restart in a different body, and yeah, that’s where things get even more complicated.
The game’s a bit like an interactive movie, with live-action sequences that keep it feeling fresh and cinematic. You’re making decisions that determine how the story unfolds, but it’s definitely one of those games where you’ll have to replay a few times to figure out what the heck is going on. Think of it as a very high-stakes game of “guess what happens next.”
While Death Come True doesn’t shy away from some pretty wacky moments, its combination of mystery and suspense will keep you hooked. It’s a little wild, a little weird, and if you’re into psychological thrillers with a twist, you’ll probably dig it. Just don’t expect everything to make sense right away—it’s a ride you’ll have to take more than once to unravel.
Choose Love
Choose Love is a fun, cheesy romance game that’s all about making decisions and watching your love life unfold in the most dramatic way possible. It’s got all the over-the-top, feel-good moments you’d expect from a story where every choice leads you to a different heart-throbbing scenario. From love triangles to unexpected twists, you’re in for a wild ride through the world of romance.
The game gives you the power to pick your path, and with each decision, you get to steer your character’s love life toward different outcomes. Sometimes it feels like it’s trying a little too hard to pull at the heartstrings, but that’s part of the charm. It’s got that cheesy, almost-too-perfect vibe that makes you want to roll your eyes and then immediately keep playing to see what happens next.
If you’re a fan of lighthearted, feel-good stories where you can play the role of a romantic lead (and love a little drama along the way), Choose Love hits the spot. It’s not going to win any awards for subtlety, but if you’re looking for a fun, guilty pleasure, it’s got you covered. Just be ready for a fair amount of cheese—it’s part of the package!
How FMV Games Compare to Traditional Video Games
FMV games are a breed of their own, standing apart from traditional video games in some key ways. For starters, while most games rely heavily on gameplay mechanics and player interactions (hello, button mashing and strategy!), FMV games are more like interactive movies. The difference? Well, you’re not just watching a movie—you’re influencing its outcome.
Unlike traditional video games, which focus on real-time gameplay, FMV games are built around recorded video footage. This means you’re playing through pre-recorded cinematic sequences, often starring real actors. Think of it like watching a movie, but instead of just hitting play, you get to decide what happens next. You make choices, solve puzzles, and maybe even perform quick-time events, but the whole thing plays out like a movie you get to control. It’s like Her Story or Late Shift—the actors are key to driving the story forward, but you’re the one pulling the strings.
In traditional games, gameplay is paramount. You control the character, solve puzzles, and fight enemies. FMV games, on the other hand, immerse you in a world where your decisions are critical, but the gameplay itself is more about making choices than executing complex maneuvers. So, while both types of games share the love of storytelling, FMV games often focus more on narrative, branching paths, and character choices. But if you’re looking for tight combat or an epic skill-based challenge, FMV might leave you wanting more.
The Impact of FMV Games on Modern Gaming
FMV games may have started as a bit of a niche, but they’ve definitely left their mark on modern gaming. The genre’s focus on interactive storytelling, cinematic experiences, and live-action footage can be traced in many of today’s popular titles. Think Detroit: Become Human, Telling Lies, or even The Quarry—these games may not be full-on FMV, but they share a common thread with their interactive narratives.
FMV games were a precursor to the more mainstream use of cinematic storytelling. They showed game developers that players love getting lost in a movie-like experience, and now, most AAA games invest in high-quality voice acting, motion capture, and branching storylines to give players that immersive, cinematic feel. While the technology behind FMV games (hello, VHS tapes and clunky graphics) was limited in its early days, the concept of making a game feel like a film has become much more polished. FMV games made that leap possible, proving that video games could be much more than just arcade-style action.
In fact, FMV’s comeback with titles like Late Shift and Her Story proves there’s still an audience hungry for this kind of experience. So, if you’ve ever been captivated by a gripping story in a game, thank the FMV genre for planting those seeds.
What Are The Best FMV Games for Beginners?
New to the world of FMV games and unsure where to start? No worries—I’ve got a few suggestions that’ll ease you in without overwhelming your gaming senses.
First up, The Bunker is an excellent entry point. It’s a psychological thriller with a straightforward premise and simple mechanics, perfect for someone just dipping their toes into the genre. You control one character in a tense situation, making decisions that affect the outcome. Plus, it has a relatively short playthrough, so you won’t feel bogged down.
Another great pick is Her Story. It’s not action-packed, but it’s an incredibly satisfying experience that’ll keep you hooked. You’ll watch a series of video clips, piecing together a story through a simple search engine. It’s minimal, but deeply engaging. If you’re into puzzle-solving and mystery, this one will really get you thinking.
Finally, Late Shift is a bit more interactive and feels like a movie that lets you make decisions. It’s got more variety in terms of character interaction, and the choices you make feel like they actually matter. It’s also relatively short, so it’s great for an afternoon of decision-making madness without needing to commit to something long and complex.
What Are The Best FMV Games to Play in Groups?
Looking for something to play with friends? FMV games can be a hilarious and engaging experience when shared. Some titles are specifically designed for group play, and they’re perfect for turning an evening into a full-on interactive movie night.
The Complex is a solid choice. It has multiple endings based on the decisions made throughout the game, so you can pass the controller around and see how your group’s choices play out. The game features some great twists and turns, keeping everyone on their toes. It’s kind of like playing a choose-your-own-adventure book, but with way more tension and drama.
Then there’s Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend—an absolute treat if you’re in the mood for something lighthearted and ridiculously fun. The game is pure cheese, with over-the-top characters and scenarios that’ll have you and your friends laughing for hours. It’s the perfect balance of silly and interactive, and you’ll get a kick out of the outlandish choices.
Lastly, The Dark Pictures Anthology (not entirely FMV but includes cinematic choices) is another great pick for group play. Its interactive horror stories are fantastic for a group of friends, especially with multiple branching storylines. Whether you’re making decisions or just spectating, it’s a good time for everyone involved.
How to Get the Best Experience Out of FMV Games
FMV games aren’t just about watching a movie and tapping a button—they’re an experience. To really get the most out of these games, you need to immerse yourself in the story and make thoughtful choices. Here are some tips to get you in the zone:
- Get Comfortable: FMV games are often cinematic, and you want to be as comfortable as possible. Grab some snacks, cozy up with a blanket, and set the mood with dim lighting to really dive into the narrative.
- Pay Attention to Details: A lot of FMV games rely on subtle clues and character interactions to make the story unfold. You don’t want to miss important details that might affect your decisions later. Focus on the dialogue, the body language of the characters, and the setting. Everything matters.
- Don’t Rush: If you’re playing a game with branching storylines (like Her Story or Late Shift), take your time. Go down different paths, make the wrong decisions, and see how things unfold. The beauty of FMV games is that they let you explore multiple outcomes, so don’t feel like you need to hurry through them.
- Invite Friends Along: If you’re playing a game like The Complex or Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, having friends around can really enhance the experience. Make decisions together and see how different choices play out.
- Adjust Your Expectations: FMV games aren’t all about fast-paced action or mind-blowing graphics. They’re about the story and how you interact with it. So, lower your expectations for traditional gaming mechanics and embrace the cheesy, narrative-driven experience.
