Ranking Every Telltale Games Series: From The Walking Dead to The Expanse

Telltale Games, renowned for its narrative-driven titles, has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, particularly after the success of The Walking Dead in March 2012. This title not only redefined storytelling in video games but also paved the way for the developer to explore a multitude of beloved franchises. From adaptations of comic books to iconic television series, Telltale’s catalog showcases its evolution and influence. Below is a comprehensive ranking of every Telltale series, encompassing both mainstream hits and lesser-known titles.

Exploring the Lesser-Known Titles

At the lower end of the spectrum, the Law & Order franchise struggled to make a significant impact. Released as Law & Order: Legacies, the game featured a cast from across the universe but failed to engage players meaningfully. Following closely behind is the CSI series, which consisted of four titles that served as early experiments in Telltale’s episodic format. Although each game contributed to the developer’s growth, they were ultimately deemed mediocre.

Telltale’s attempt to adapt the Bone comic book was cut short after just two episodes. While the project hinted at the potential of episodic storytelling, it lacked the polish that would later define the studio’s signature style. Similarly, Game of Thrones fell short of expectations, limiting players to the narrative of House Forrester rather than allowing interaction with well-known characters from the franchise.

Mid-Tier Titles with Unique Charms

Some titles, such as Jurassic Park and Wallace & Gromit, showcased Telltale’s attempts to innovate within established worlds. Telltale’s Jurassic Park focused heavily on quick-time events, which detracted from the overall experience. In contrast, the Wallace & Gromit game, despite featuring a different voice actor for Wallace, managed to capture the charm of the original series.

The mid-tier entries include Back to the Future, which offered an enjoyable narrative steeped in nostalgia, and Puzzle Agent, a whimsical take on puzzles that showcased Telltale’s unique artistry. The Tales of Monkey Island series, while not quite reaching the heights of its predecessors, retained the spirit of the classic games with engaging storytelling.

Highlighting Popular Franchises and Innovations

As Telltale’s capabilities advanced, titles like Tales from the Borderlands and Batman emerged, demonstrating the studio’s knack for storytelling. Tales from the Borderlands successfully captured the essence of the franchise, while Batman: The Enemy Within offered a gripping narrative that examined the complexities of the Joker’s character.

Among Telltale’s standout titles, The Wolf Among Us received acclaim for its compelling narrative and dynamic characters. This adaptation of the Fables comic series captivated audiences, elevating the standard for narrative-driven games. The game’s success prompted fans to eagerly anticipate its sequel.

At the pinnacle of Telltale’s achievements remains The Walking Dead. Season 1 set a benchmark for emotional storytelling in gaming, featuring unforgettable performances by voice actors Dave Fennoy and Melissa Hutchison. The game’s success led to several sequels, each maintaining high points that resonated with players, solidifying Telltale’s legacy in the industry.

In summary, Telltale Games has crafted a diverse portfolio that reflects its journey from its early projects to its most celebrated titles. Each series has contributed to the developer’s identity and showcases the potential of storytelling within the gaming medium. As the studio continues to evolve, fans look forward to seeing what the future holds for Telltale’s narrative-driven adventures.