The Best PlayStation 3 Action-Adventure Games

Set in a visually stunning world full of lush jungles, snow-capped mountains, and ancient cities, this action-packed sequel follows treasure hunter Nathan Drake on a quest to find the mythical city of Shambhala. Combining a rich and engaging narrative with top-notch voice acting, Uncharted 2 truly stands out as a cinematic gaming experience. The game's beautiful third-person platforming and cover-based gunplay are further enhanced by memorable set pieces, including a thrilling train sequence and a breathtaking helicopter chase. Additionally, the title features a robust multiplayer mode, offering hours of exciting gameplay and teamwork opportunities for fans seeking an enthralling blend of adventure, exploration, and combat.

In this post-apocalyptic tale, players guide the grizzled survivor Joel and the young, spirited Ellie as they traverse a ruined America wrought by a devastating fungal infection. Its gripping narrative, intense combat, and stealth mechanics make The Last of Us a critically acclaimed gem in the action-adventure genre. The game is a true testament to the power of storytelling, as the emotional journey of its characters evokes deep player engagement, further complemented by the title's exceptional graphics and atmospheric sound design. Additionally, the game boasts a unique multiplayer mode called "Factions," which forces players to think more tactically than the typical run-and-gun experience.

The third installment in the beloved Uncharted series sees the enigmatic Nathan Drake racing against a mysterious organization to uncover the secrets of the fabled "Atlantis of the Sands." Showcasing exhilarating set pieces that push the boundaries of what's possible in video game storytelling, the game's jaw-dropping visuals and enhanced hand-to-hand combat make for a riveting experience. The returning characters, such as the charming Elena and the wisecracking Sully, add heart and humor to a high-stakes adventure that spans across vast deserts and ancient cities. Additionally, the expanded multiplayer offering delivers intense cooperative and competitive modes, providing hours of thrilling gameplay for fans of the franchise.

In this immersive open-world Western, players take on the role of John Marston, a former outlaw seeking redemption in a rapidly changing America at the turn of the 20th century. The expansive map, rich with dynamic wildlife and breathtaking vistas, sets the stage for countless engrossing side quests and captivating encounters with diverse characters. As Marston, players navigate hostile territories and engage in intense shootouts, utilizing an innovative "Dead Eye" mechanic that allows for heightened precision during combat. Added to all this is a highly acclaimed multiplayer component, which offers customizable characters, posse systems, and various cooperative and competitive game modes.

Set during the golden age of piracy, Black Flag follows Edward Kenway, a charismatic pirate-turned-Assassin, navigating the treacherous waters of the Caribbean. The game innovates within the Assassin's Creed series by seamlessly blending the franchise's trademark stealth and parkour mechanics with ship-based naval combat, allowing players to captain the Jackdaw and engage in thrilling sea battles. The open-world gameplay offers a wealth of exploration, from jungle-covered islands to bustling colonial towns, teeming with diverse side missions and collectibles. Additionally, the game features a multiplayer mode with various competitive and cooperative experiences, catering to a wide range of player preferences.

This sprawling, satirical crime epic takes place in the fictional city of Los Santos, a twisted take on modern-day Los Angeles. Boasting a massive open world packed with absurdly detailed activities and side missions, GTA V notably introduces a multi-character narrative, allowing players to switch between three distinct protagonists: Michael, Trevor, and Franklin. The game's meticulously crafted, biting humor and biting satire elevate its storytelling while a plethora of vehicles, weapons, and customization options provide endless possibilities for mayhem. Moreover, the game's multiplayer component, called GTA Online, allows players to collaborate with (or compete against) others as they build criminal empires within a shared world.