Choice-driven narrative games live or die on one thing, whether the choices actually feel like they matter rather than just delaying the same ending. Two titles in the catalogue commit to that fully, in almost opposite tones, one a tense, multi-decade crime drama, the other a comedic sci-fi heist. Both are worth knowing about specifically because of how differently they use the same core idea.
As Dusk Falls, $15
A tense interactive drama spanning thirty years, following two families whose lives collide during a robbery gone wrong at a roadside motel, told through a distinctive illustrated art style rather than full 3D cinematics. The genuinely notable feature: local co-op for up to eight players, pass-the-controller style, making it one of the few games built for a whole group to argue over a decision together rather than one person choosing alone. If our couch co-op roundup had you wanting something built for a bigger group than just two, this is the one that scales up to a full room.
Tales from the Borderlands, $15
A choice-driven adventure set in the Borderlands universe, but tonally its own thing, funnier, faster-paced and more willing to undercut its own tension with a joke than the main Borderlands shooters ever are. Following a corporate rep and a con artist forced into an uneasy partnership chasing a vault, the choices here shape relationships and outcomes across a genuinely comedic sci-fi heist story rather than a dramatic one. Single-player only, built for one person's story rather than a group decision.
Picking based on tone
| As Dusk Falls | Tales from the Borderlands | |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Tense, dramatic crime story | Comedic sci-fi heist |
| Players | Solo or local co-op, up to 8 | Single-player only |
| Art style | Illustrated, motion-comic presentation | Stylised Borderlands cel-shaded look |
| Best for | A group deciding together, or a serious solo story | A solo player who wants humour alongside the choices |
Get either key
Both are genuine global digital keys, delivered by email. As Dusk Falls redeems on both Xbox and PC, and Tales from the Borderlands redeems on Xbox. New to redeeming a digital code, our Xbox redemption guide covers console, phone and browser methods.
More to explore
See the rest of the game key catalogue, or our other roundups: hidden gem indies under $15, best couch co-op games, Portal-like puzzle games, horror and thriller picks, racing games ranked, Star Wars on Xbox, and retro throwbacks worth revisiting.
Frequently asked questions
Does As Dusk Falls support co-op?
Yes, local pass-the-controller co-op for up to 8 players, alongside a full single-player mode. Decisions can be made as a group or by one player alone.
Is Tales from the Borderlands connected to the main Borderlands shooters?
Yes, it is set in the same universe, but is a choice-driven narrative adventure rather than a first-person shooter, with a notably more comedic tone.
Does As Dusk Falls play on PC as well as Xbox?
Yes, this code redeems on both Xbox and PC.
Which is better for someone new to choice-driven games?
Tales from the Borderlands is the gentler, funnier entry point. As Dusk Falls is more dramatically intense and better suited to players comfortable with a heavier tone.
Are these genuine keys?
Yes, both are genuine global, region-free digital codes, delivered by email and redeemable on any account regardless of country.
