
Games where you play as an animal have carved out a unique niche in the gaming world, offering players a chance to experience life from a completely different perspective. Whether you’re soaring through the skies as a majestic eagle, prowling the savannah as a lion, or even navigating the urban jungle as a stray cat, these games provide a refreshing break from the human-centric narratives that dominate the industry. But why are these games so compelling? Let’s dive into the various aspects that make them stand out.
1. A Unique Perspective on the World
One of the most obvious appeals of games where you play as an animal is the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of a creature that is fundamentally different from us. This shift in perspective can be both enlightening and entertaining. For instance, in AER: Memories of Old, you play as a shapeshifter who can transform into a bird, allowing you to explore a vast, open world from the air. The freedom of flight and the ability to see the world from above offer a sense of liberation that is hard to replicate in games where you’re grounded.
Similarly, Tokyo Jungle places you in the role of various animals trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo. The game forces you to think like an animal, focusing on basic survival needs like food, water, and shelter. This shift in priorities can be both challenging and rewarding, as it requires you to adopt a completely different mindset.
2. A Break from Human-Centric Stories
Most games are centered around human characters, with stories that revolve around human emotions, conflicts, and experiences. While these narratives can be deeply engaging, they can also become repetitive. Games where you play as an animal offer a welcome departure from this norm. They allow developers to explore themes and stories that are not tied to human experiences, opening up a whole new realm of possibilities.
For example, Okami casts you as Amaterasu, a wolf goddess who must restore life and color to a world that has been plunged into darkness. The game’s story is steeped in Japanese mythology, and the fact that you’re playing as a divine wolf adds an extra layer of mystique and wonder. Similarly, Spirit of the North puts you in the paws of a fox, guiding you through a beautifully crafted world inspired by Icelandic folklore. The absence of human characters allows the game to focus entirely on the bond between the fox and the spirit it encounters, creating a deeply emotional and immersive experience.
3. A Focus on Nature and the Environment
Many games where you play as an animal place a strong emphasis on nature and the environment. These games often serve as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world, encouraging players to think about their impact on the planet. Endling: Extinction is Forever is a poignant example of this. You play as the last mother fox on Earth, trying to protect her cubs in a world ravaged by human activity. The game is a powerful commentary on environmental destruction and the consequences of our actions.
Similarly, Shelter series puts you in the role of a mother animal (such as a lynx or a mongoose) trying to protect her young from the dangers of the wild. The games are a stark reminder of the harsh realities of life in the wild, where survival is a constant struggle. By placing players in the role of a vulnerable animal, these games foster a sense of empathy and connection with the natural world.
4. A Different Kind of Gameplay
Games where you play as an animal often feature unique gameplay mechanics that are tailored to the abilities and behaviors of the animal you’re controlling. This can lead to some truly innovative and engaging gameplay experiences. For instance, in Goat Simulator, you play as a goat with a penchant for causing chaos. The game’s physics-based gameplay and open-world environment allow for a level of freedom and unpredictability that is both hilarious and addictive.
On the other hand, The First Tree offers a more contemplative experience. You play as a fox searching for her missing cubs, and the game’s focus is on exploration and storytelling rather than action. The game’s minimalist design and emotional narrative create a deeply moving experience that stays with you long after you’ve finished playing.
5. A Sense of Connection with the Animal Kingdom
Finally, games where you play as an animal can foster a sense of connection with the animal kingdom. By stepping into the paws, claws, or hooves of an animal, players can gain a deeper appreciation for the lives and struggles of these creatures. This connection can be both educational and emotional, as it encourages players to think about the world from a different perspective.
For example, WolfQuest simulates the life of a wild wolf in Yellowstone National Park. The game is based on real wolf behavior and ecology, and it offers players a chance to experience the challenges of life in the wild. Similarly, Bee Simulator allows you to experience the world from the perspective of a bee, highlighting the importance of these tiny creatures to our ecosystem.
Conclusion
Games where you play as an animal offer a unique and refreshing take on the gaming experience. They provide a new perspective on the world, break away from human-centric stories, and often focus on themes of nature and the environment. With innovative gameplay mechanics and a strong emotional connection to the animal kingdom, these games have something to offer for everyone. So the next time you’re looking for a new gaming experience, why not step into the paws of an animal and see the world from a different point of view?
Related Q&A
Q: What are some popular games where you play as an animal? A: Some popular games include Okami, Tokyo Jungle, Endling: Extinction is Forever, Shelter series, Goat Simulator, The First Tree, WolfQuest, and Bee Simulator.
Q: Are there any educational games where you play as an animal? A: Yes, games like WolfQuest and Bee Simulator are designed to be both entertaining and educational, offering insights into the behavior and ecology of the animals they feature.
Q: Can playing as an animal in a game change how I view real animals? A: Absolutely! Many players find that these games foster a deeper appreciation and empathy for animals, encouraging them to think more about the natural world and their impact on it.
Q: Are there any multiplayer games where you play as an animal? A: Yes, WolfQuest offers a multiplayer mode where you can join a pack with other players, and Goat Simulator also has multiplayer options for chaotic fun.
Q: What makes games where you play as an animal different from other games? A: These games often offer unique perspectives, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a focus on nature and the environment, setting them apart from more traditional human-centric games.