Edit to add: for me the lore of HZD was like 1 generational leap from plausible. Like it’s science fiction for sure but 1 leap in tech and it’s science plausible. That said… Fuck Ted Faro
God of War 2018 - such a great story and you don’t need to know the previous games.
God of War - Ragnarock - it’s rare a sequel to a banger is good. Even more rare when the sequel to a banger is an even bigger banger. 2018’s story was good, ragnarock is so damn moving.
Red Dead Redemption 2 - never played the first one but bc 2 is chronologically before it, no matter. This game is so immersive and deep.
Horizon Zero Dawn - this one is probably hit or miss. You either lovr the lore or couldn’t be fucked. For me it was a great story. Gameplay may not stand the test of time however.
Ghost of Tsushima - this game is so fucking pretty.
Hollow knight - the lore. Omg the lore and the art style and omfg the music. Hidden gem.
It’s entirely possible the tick you found was still looking for a good place to dine. Obviously keep track of your scalp and where you found this one so you’re sure there are not others and you aren’t actually bit or anything. But 2 days after contact is kinda when they hunker down and start sucking so there’s a good chance you found it before the problems could happen.