By Matija Šerić
Number 5 – Silent Hill 2
The survival horror video game Silent Hill 2 was released by Konami back in 2001 for the PlayStation 2, and it was re-released and remastered in 2024, restoring its former glory. It is considered one of the best horror titles in gaming. This is a true psychological horror experience. The story follows James Sunderland, who returns to the town of Silent Hill to find his deceased wife, who supposedly sent him a letter asking him to come. While the game features plenty of combat, it became famous for its compelling story that draws players in, with a creepy atmosphere that delivers a captivating horror thrill. There are also essential puzzles that require players to think critically, which is commendable. Themes of grief, guilt, and anger are explored. Everything unfolds in an autumn-like atmosphere (even though the season isn’t explicitly mentioned) full of melancholy and gloom.
Number 4 – Alan Wake Series
The mention of the Alan Wake series immediately excites fans of the horror genre. It is one of the most successful modern horror franchises. The first game was released in 2010 and remastered in 2021, while the sequel came out in 2023. The franchise achieved instant success, which evolved into lasting acclaim due to its phenomenal narrative, psychological thriller elements, action (supernatural powers), and engaging, creative gameplay mechanics. Thriller, horror, humor, and adventure all in one title. Few horror games are so well-structured. The game’s environment perfectly captures the autumn vibe. The story takes place in the fictional town of Bright Falls, Washington, transitioning from summer into autumn. Thanks to advanced graphics, both games vividly depict autumn scenes in forests, parks, streets, and harvest festivals. The story is shrouded in mystery as the main character, Alan Wake, searches for his mysteriously missing wife, Alice.
Grand Theft Auto IV Trailer
Number 3 – GTA IV
An article about the best autumn video games would be incomplete without mentioning the iconic Grand Theft Auto IV. The GTA franchise is the most popular gaming franchise ever, and many fans consider GTA IV their favorite installment. The game was released in 2008. The story is set in the impressive Liberty City, modeled after New York City, with part of the action taking place in the nearby state of Alderney, inspired by New Jersey.
Why is this game so appealing? There are several key reasons. The incredibly detailed and realized identity of Liberty City, a well-developed narrative, fantastic character development (especially protagonist Niko Bellic), a serious tone with a realistic depiction of crime, and highly polished gameplay mechanics—both in controlling characters and driving vehicles. Based on these factors, many objective gamers consider GTA IV a higher-quality game than the widely praised GTA V. The atmosphere is very dark and perfectly autumnal, with trees covered in yellow and red leaves, frequent rain, and visible breath in cold air, making it ideal for cozy autumn gaming. Some gamers even mark each autumn by replaying this title—and they’re not wrong.
The Last of Us Part I trailer
Number 2 – The Last of Us Series
Although many wouldn’t immediately think of the The Last of Us franchise (Part 1 and Part 2), it is one of the strongest autumn video games of all time. We’ve placed it in second position. Many initially assume it’s a winter game due to the thrilling snow and ice missions, but in fact, the series spans all seasons, with the autumn vibe being the most striking. The story is infused with an autumnal spirit, which Naughty Dog conveys masterfully. Civilization gradually transforms from its peak (symbolizing summer) into a post-apocalyptic world—autumn representing decay and decline of civilization.
The world of The Last of Us is filled with darkness, threats from both infected and corrupted humans—the most dangerous predators in bleak times. The game became a megahit due to its engaging gameplay, creative and deep story, strong characters (especially Ellie and Joel), and linear but challenging progression. The graphics in both installments are stunning, and autumn landscapes in cities and villages are incredibly realistic. Few games deliver a better autumnal visual experience (there’s even a Halloween store in one part of the game). Finally, autumn carries positive elements that awaken hope that not everything is lost and humanity can find a brighter future.
Trailer for Mafia 1
Number 1 – Mafia: The City of Lost Heaven
Mafia is one of the best crime-themed gaming series. Many consider the first game, released in 2002, the best in the series and, in our view, the best autumn video game. Over time, it has become a legendary classic. Luckily for both old and new gamers, the game received a remake in 2020. Mafia I is ideal for fans of the mafia genre, films, and TV series like The Godfather, Goodfellas, Donnie Brasco, and The Sopranos. The game perfectly captures the atmosphere of Cosa Nostra.
The story unfolds in the fictional American city of Lost Heaven during Prohibition, where Tommy Angelo rises within the Salieri mafia family. Realism and a complex narrative are the game’s main strengths, combining gunfights, driving, and exploration. The weather varies, and autumn is visible not only in the city’s conditions but also in the beautiful rural landscapes. Mafia I has a unique atmosphere that no other game has managed to replicate. It’s worth playing, especially the remastered version, Mafia: Definitive Edition (2020), which is an excellent remake. Perfect autumn fun.
Autumn – The Perfect Time for Gaming
Autumn is a season marked by feelings of nostalgia, mystery, and introspection, all of which can be found in the games listed above. If you’re looking for a deep story, well-developed characters, warm colors, and mysterious plots, there’s something here for everyone. With a cup of tea, coffee, or another warm drink, we highly recommend diving into these autumnal gaming worlds. Even if you’re not a gamer, you can enjoy watching gameplay on YouTube. Truly cinematic scenarios worth experiencing.
