Games You can complete within 20 hours

Sometimes, you just want a game you can finish over a weekend or a couple of relaxed evenings, without committing to a 100-hour epic. Luckily, there are fantastic games that pack all their charm, challenge, and creativity into tight, manageable playtimes under 20 hours. Whether you’re looking for a chill experience or something a bit more intense, these picks have got you covered.

1. A Short Hike (2 to 3 hours) #

Let’s start with a delightful, serene gem: A Short Hike. With its charming visuals and heartwarming atmosphere, this game offers a perfect escape for a few hours. As the name suggests, it’s not a long journey, but one that’s filled with wonder and exploration. You play as a bird climbing a mountain, encountering quirky characters and small adventures along the way. It’s easy to see why this game has a loyal fan base, even if some notes that the lack of clear direction turned the hike into a navigational nightmare for them! Still, it’s a fantastic, cozy game you can complete within a few hours and come out feeling refreshed.

2. Dredge (14 to 15 hours) #

For those who want something a bit darker (but still charming), Dredge is a horror game that’s more eerie than terrifying. You’ll spend your time fishing in mysterious waters, uncovering secrets as you go. Its DLC, The Iron Rig, adds a whole new arctic area and story mods to your boat. Even though some were put off by the “horror” tag, others like assure us that it’s a cozy horror experience. If fishing for eldritch creatures is your thing, you’ll have a blast in under 20 hours.

3. Firewatch (6 to 8 hours) #

Firewatch is another must-play that keeps cropping up in gaming discussions. With a playtime of around 6 to 8 hours, it’s perfect for a single-session adventure. The game is an atmospheric, story-driven experience where you play as a fire lookout in a secluded Wyoming forest. Some players could finish it in one sitting, completely immersed in the game’s captivating plot and gorgeous setting. There’s no heavy action here—just you, nature, and a gripping mystery that will keep you on edge until the very end.

4. Inside (3 to 4 hours) #

From the creators of Limbo, Inside is another short and surreal experience, with most players completing it in just a few hours. The game’s eerie tone and jaw-dropping twists will make sure you remember it long after you’ve finished. It’s dark, atmospheric, and a perfect example of how impactful a short game can be.

5. Astro’s Playroom (18 hours) #

For those who are rocking a PS5, Astro’s Playroom is a delightful platformer that will take you through a nostalgia-filled journey. Built to showcase the PS5’s features, this game is a blast and has something for players of all skill levels. As RogumonGame mentions, it’s possible to 100% the game in about 9 hours if you stay focused. For others, like tlamy, it took closer to 18 hours, but the charm and fun are undeniable.

6. Portal (3-4 hours) #

No list of short games would be complete without Portal. This classic puzzler from Valve is the perfect bite-sized game that will make you feel like a genius with its clever mechanics and unforgettable writing. If you’ve never played it, you can knock it out in about 3-4 hours and still have time to go back for some cake.

If you enjoy concise gaming experiences, you might also be interested in our guide to great RPGs that run on low-end PCs - many of them can be completed in a weekend.