There are a lot of video games out there and in this era of mobile and home-based gaming, the choices have never been greater. So how do you cut through the noise and find the “Best of” for any chosen topic?
Well, we’re here to help celebrate and shine a spotlight on some of the latest, greatest, and unforgettable games through the years.
For our ongoing series of articles depicting the best video games, our attention this time turns to the best games set in America. From Western-themed adventures to post-apocalyptic antics, you have a lot of games to whet your appetite.
Of course, if we’ve missed any of your favorites, feel free to comment below and we’ll get them added on!
Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a phenomenal open-world game with a gripping storyline. It takes place in the late 19th century and has players control Arthur Morgan, a member of a notorious gang. With stunning historical locales and its exploration of American ideologies, Red Dead Redemption 2 delivers a rich representation of the American frontier.
Rockstar Games did their best to capture America’s rich historical detail in Red Dead Redemption 2. From its sprawling plains to its many swamps, the game’s vivid world invites players to experience its various locations. Moreover, the game’s world captures the ambience of the era. Giving players opportunities to experience horseback riding and hunting during this era will add to their immersion in the game.
If you’re looking for a game that captures America’s Wild West era well, check this out.
Marvel’s Spider-Man
Marvel’s Spider-Man was a phenomenal gem developed by Insomniac Games. This game captures America’s essence by showcasing the vibrancy, diversity, and magnitude of New York City. Insomniac Games recreates famous landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and others, allowing players to explore a highly realistic version of this city.
Secondly, Marvel’s Spider-Man captures the spirit of the American superhero archetype. It emphasizes responsibility, justice, and courage, qualities associated with superheroes in American pop culture. By battling enemies and saving people, Marvel’s Spider-Man delivers a meaningful role-playing experience that embodies the ideals established in the beloved comic.
In addition to having an engaging narrative, Marvel’s Spider-Man is a must-play.
Grand Theft Auto 5
Grand Theft Auto 5 stands out as a fantastic game set in America. Firstly, this open-world game captures the essence of a bustling American metropolis. The game’s attention to detail is evident in every corner of the city from its towering skyscrapers to its sun-soaked beaches. Each location provides players with a sense of the city’s cultural diversity, making things feel fun to traverse.
Moreover. the game shines in parodying American institutions and subcultures with locations like Vinewood being a play on Hollywood. Locations aside, the game sprouts a unique cast of characters. The trio of protagonists Michael, Trevor, and Franklin all represent different aspects of American identity and ambition. From Franklin’s hustler status to Trevor’s unhinged criminal situation, each character embodies something refreshing in the grand scheme of things. I
f you still haven’t played Grand Theft Auto 5, we highly suggest you give the game a shot.
No More Heroes
No More Heroes is a fantastic action game with incredible humor and splendid hack-and-slash gameplay. The game follows Travis Touchdown, an otaku turned assassin, who must navigate through a gauntlet of assassins to become the best one.
One of the game’s standout aspects lies in its portrayal of its fictional Californian city of Santa Destroy. This city contains a vibrant mix of cultures and fantastic neon-lit streets. It also serves as a metaphorical playground for Travis, reflecting the underbelly of American society and its obsession with fame and violence. Moreover, Travis is a fantastic lead and serves as a phenomenal satirical portrayal of American otaku culture.
On top of having an alluring combat system and giving players many side activities to partake in during their journey, No More Heroes is a terrific action title that’s worth your time.
Heavy Rain
From action to deep storytelling, we’d like to recommend Heavy Rain. This game has immersive storytelling and intricate characters. It explores themes regarding loss, love, and fragility. By delving into its cast’s complex lives, Heavy Rain offers players a unique depiction of American society and its inherent struggles.
Philadelphia serves as an excellent backdrop for Heavy Rain’s narrative. The city’s darkened aesthetic amplifies the game’s sombre and uneasy tone. Furthermore, the developers incorporate recognizable landmarks like the Independence Hall to make things feel authentic to players who’ve visited or grew up in the area. The game excels at exploring each of its characters’ struggles and the consequences of their decisions.
On top of tackling topics that are deeply ingrained in American society like justice, Heavy Rain is a phenomenal narrative-heavy title that won’t disappoint you.
Mafia II
Mafia II delivers a cinematic and immersive depiction of the 1940s-50s America. It takes place in Empire Bay, a city inspired by New York City, and has players embark on an adventure through the criminal underworld. Empire Bay is a great setting since it reflects the architectural style, fashion, and atmosphere of both periods. From its multiple buildings and vehicles, players will admire the detail that went into this game’s portrayal of this post-war era.
Moreover, Mafia II delves into concepts concerning the American Dream and the consequences of organized crime. In it, we follow the lead character, Vito Scaletta’s rise within the Mafia ranks while exploring ideas like loyalty, family, and the pursuit of wealth and power. You’ll witness Vito change from an immigrant seeking the American Dream to a hardened criminal grappling with the moral implications of his actions.
On top of implementing fitting music, Mafia II is a phenomenal game set in America.
Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3
For something less story-rich and more gameplay-focused, Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 should entertain you. This is a great game set in America due to its iconic representation of skateboarding culture. The game takes players on a virtual tour of various locations across America, from Los Angeles to New York City. You’ll adore exploring each city’s recognizable areas from the Brooklyn Banks skate spot in New York City to the Venice Beach skate parks in Los Angeles.
Moreover, the game allows players to play as many iconic skaters. From Tony Hawk to Bucky Lasek, the game features a phenomenal roster of professional skaters for you to control. Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 includes a fun revert mechanic many players adored using. This allows players to link vert tricks with skate tricks, giving them more room for experimentation.
Whether you’re exploring real-life skate sports or performing gnarly tricks, Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 excels at showcasing the best qualities of American skateboarding.
Need For Speed: Underground
Need For Speed: Underground is a compelling racing game with a boatload of vehicles and fun gameplay mechanics. This game allows players to explore different underground racing scenes established in iconic cities from New York City to San Francisco. Each city is well-designed and resembles its real-life counterpart. Whether you’re zooming through Times Square or drifting through San Franciso’s steep hills, you’ll be fully immersed in the urban environments present in Need for Speed: Underground.
Furthermore, the game customization system is incredible. From performance upgrades to visual enhancements, you may find yourself spending a lot of time sprucing up your vehicles to attain a more personalized experience. Underground’s customization reflects the importance of self-expression and individuality in American car culture.
In addition to giving players opportunities to compete in high-stakes racing competitions, Need For Speed: Underground is a phenomenal racing game that’s worth picking up.
The Last of Us
The Last of Us is a remarkable game with intricate storytelling, a dark world, and a phenomenal cast. It takes place in the decaying United States, showcasing a hauntingly beautiful depiction of the country after a devastating outbreak. From the overgrown ruins of downtown Boston to the desolate landscapes found in Wyoming, players will adore Naughty Dog’s takes on these recognizable areas.
Furthermore, the game’s leads Joel and Ellie receive fantastic character development by the game’s conclusion. As you guide them through their harsh journey, you’ll become emotionally invested in their struggles and growth. The dialogue, voice acting, and subtle character interactions come together to breathe life into these characters, making them feel realistic and deep.
On top of exploring themes like survival, fragility, and owning up to one’s actions, The Last of Us will leave you wanting more.
Deus Ex
Deus Ex takes place in a dystopian future where technology and politics intertwine. It has players explore iconic American cities like New York and Los Angeles and provides players with a deep storyline that’ll leave them contemplating.
Deus Ex’s storyline is deep and tackles themes concerning government surveillance, corruption, and the ethics of emerging technologies. It all takes place in a world where private military institutions exert influence over global politics and has players assume the role of JC Denton. He’s an augmented agent working for the United Nations Anti-Terrorist Coalition. As you navigate this world through JC’s eyes, you’ll uncover multiple conspiracies that reflect the power dynamics within American society. This results in numerous twists and moral dilemmas, providing you with a thought-provoking experience.
Furthermore, fans will adore Deus Ex’s innovative gameplay mechanics. The game encourages you to explore multiple routes to achieve its objectives. This allows players to tackle missions differently. Whether you want to approach matters from a stealth or over-the-top angle is up to you.
On top of having excellent sound design and giving its environments rich detail, Deus Ex is a fascinating sci-fi-themed title that’s worth checking out.
So, there we have it, our pick for the best video games set in America through the years!
What do you think of our picks? Do you agree? Are there any notable omissions? Let us know in the comments below!
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