What is a video game other than the ability to show off special scenarios and situations through the eyes of a particular being or person? But sometimes, the story goes deeper than one might expect, and through that, the game becomes something much, much more. For a great example of this, look at Spate.
On the surface, Spate looks like a simple platformer done in a Steampunk style. nothing out of the ordinary here. Furthermore, you play a detective who is looking to solve a particular case of interest. However, as you dive deeper into the game, you find out that the character you play as isn't exactly what he seems to be. What does that mean? Well, he's an addict, and the things we see in the world aren't exactly what we're actually seeing. It's memories and hallucinations that're becoming our gameplay experience.
Making this an even more interesting tale is that this was created by former Disney & Jim Henson artist Eric Provan. He tells a deep and powerful story of a man slowing falling into madness while trying to solve a case. But what comes next may even be more intriguing, even you make it that far that is. This eerie tale with grab you by the throat and show you true struggle, pain, and fear.
This is not a game for the faint at heart, and at times, you might just wonder what the heck you're playing. But if you stick through, you'll find that Spate at its core, is a tragedy, one that deserves to be played.