In this essay, I study the content and language content of video games in a range of genres. My aim is to show what communicative skills video games promote and why the activities and game mechanics within video games can be effective tools for second-language learners for developing their communicative skills. In order to cover a variety of video game genres, I have analyzed the adventure game Journey (Thatgamecompany, 2012), the critically acclaimed action adventure game The Last of Us (Naughty Dog, 2013) and the award-winning role-play game (RPG) The Witcher 3 (CD Project RED, 2015), the massiv multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) World of Warcraft (Blizzard Entertainment, 2004) and the action adventure game Dishonored (Arkane Studios, 2012). I argue that video games rely on intrinsic motivation, which creates a more personal purpose for the players while giving them a safe environment to learn in, which in turn creates a purpose for understanding the content of the games. Video game mechanics can be seen as effective tools for language learning since that they keep introducing new mechanics that the players need to learn to progress in the game. As games introduce new tools or new strategies, they challenge players by making them adapt to new situations. A player feels the need to understand the content that is presented and becomes autonomous in learning English to fully enjoy the game or to be understood by fellow players.