Video games are not just about multiplayer mayhem and cooperative missions. Sometimes, the best gaming experiences come from diving solo into a captivating story, unfurling the mysteries of a vast world, or just challenging your personal skills against formidable AI. Carefully curated solely with the solo gamer in mind, here's a look at the ten best single-player PC games programmed to deliver riveting narratives, compelling gameplay, and immersive audio-visual experience.

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Powered by intricate storytelling and bewitching graphics, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, developed by CD Projekt, is a masterpiece of fantasy game design. As Geralt of Rivia, a professional monster hunter, players explore a sprawling, morally grey world, dealing with treacherous kings, mystical beasts, and intertwined destinies. With over 100 hours of gameplay, heart-rending character arcs, and multiple endings, this game is sure to bewitch both action lounge lizards and lore enthusiasts.

2. Red Dead Redemption 2

Another gem from Rockstar Games, Red Dead Redemption 2, offers tantalizing single-player gameplay. This game paints the dying era of outlaws and ruthless frontiers with grit and truth. With a well-crafted narrative featuring Arthur Morgan, a gang member confronting his past, coupled with an ambitiously detailed open world, this game gives players a full-bodied Wild West experience fraught with danger, betrayal, and redemption.

3. BioShock Infinite

Nothing defines the engaging power of a great single-player game than the narrative bombshells of BioShock Infinite. Developed by Irrational Games, this first-person shooter serves up a thought-provoking and emotionally charged journey through the flying city of Columbia. By blending powerful story hooks interspersed with breathtaking combat sequences, BioShock Infinite strikes an impeccable balance between gameplay and narrative immersion.

4. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Fans of high fantasy will find their refuge in the world of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. An opus of Bethesda Game Studios, Skyrim offers limitless prospects for exploration in its colossal open world, brimming with diverse lore, cultures, and unforeseen danger. From battling dragons to uncovering ancient relics, from forging alliances to testing survival skills, Skyrim ensures a unique single-player odyssey for every gamer.

5. Portal 2

Valve’s Portal 2 takes the cake when it comes to blending ingenious gameplay mechanics with witty storytelling. This puzzle-platform game forces players to think outside the box, solving complex spatial puzzles using portals while being constantly entertained by the sardonic narrative of Glados, the AI antagonist. Infused with irony and humor, Portal 2 is a testament to the untapped potential of single-player games.

6. Dark Souls III

For those who revel in challenges, Dark Souls III is an irresistible call. This sequel from FromSoftware delivers an unforgiving and incisive combat experience in a Gothic, decaying world. Unraveling the mysteries of the Kingdom of Lothric is fraught with deadly battles and infuriating deaths, but the sense of triumph in overcoming the insurmountable acts as a compelling magnet for avid single-players.

7. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Elevating the art of precision combat to hitherto-unseen heights, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a beautiful yet brutal single-player journey set in Sengoku-era Japan. Compelling storytelling merged with challenging gameplay that requires perfect timing and strategy, creates an intoxicating loop that keeps players coming back for more. No victory in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice comes easy, but every win feels absolutely worth it.

8. Last of Us Part II

Naughty Dog raises the bar for narrative-driven single-player games with Last of Us Part II. As the player navigates the post-apocalyptic world as Ellie, they are invited to experience a deeply emotional story of loss, vengeance, love, and survival. Jaw-droppingly realistic graphics, along with fluid combat mechanics, make it a compelling choice for any gamer craving a cinematic and interactive narrative experience.

9. Half-Life: Alyx

Half-Life: Alyx, created by Valve, is a mesmerizing plunge into virtual reality that captivates its players with immersive gameplay and an intriguing storyline. As Alyx Vance, players grapple with a terrifying alien race while unveiling the secrets of a dystopian universe. Leveraging the full potential of VR technology, this first-person shooter gives single-players a thrilling, visceral, and true-to-life gaming experience.

10. Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium is a groundbreaking single-player RPG by ZA/UM, that lures the players in with its revolutionary dialogue system and its intricate approach towards role-playing. The player embodies a troubled detective, exploring a city teeming with characters that are incredibly well-written. Disco Elysium shreds typical RPG tropes, delivering a stunning narrative adventure that one won't forget long after the credits roll.

In the world of ever-growing multiplayer and online gaming, these ten gems remind us of the unmatched pleasure of diving single-handedly into virtual universes, embarking on dangerous quests, and experiencing stories that shake us to our core.