Looking for recommendations.

I have little money and most importantly little time. So I wanna get the best experience out of this franchise. Which is the better, more fulfilling game?

I do plan to play this with friend(s) so having a better implemented (local) multiplayer gets extra points.

I do enjoy story elements in my games (its not all just gameplay for me), so having a more well rounded story gets extra points too.

Thanks for your advice!