Games Where You Play as a Monster: A Dive into the Unconventional and the Unpredictable

blog 2025-01-11 0Browse 0
Games Where You Play as a Monster: A Dive into the Unconventional and the Unpredictable

In the vast and ever-evolving world of video games, players are often cast in the role of the hero, the savior, or the underdog. However, there exists a fascinating subgenre that flips this narrative on its head: games where you play as a monster. These games challenge conventional storytelling and gameplay mechanics, offering players a unique perspective that is both unsettling and exhilarating. This article delves into the various aspects of these games, exploring their appeal, their challenges, and their impact on the gaming landscape.

The Allure of the Monstrous

Playing as a monster in a video game is inherently appealing because it allows players to step into the shoes of something entirely different from themselves. This shift in perspective can be both liberating and terrifying. For instance, in Carrion, players control a shapeless, carnivorous creature that must navigate through a labyrinthine facility, consuming everything in its path. The game’s reverse-horror mechanics, where the player is the source of fear, create a unique tension that is rarely experienced in traditional games.

Moreover, the monstrous perspective often comes with a set of abilities that are far removed from human capabilities. In Prototype, players take on the role of Alex Mercer, a man-turned-monster with superhuman strength, agility, and the ability to shapeshift. These powers not only make for thrilling gameplay but also allow players to explore the game world in ways that would be impossible for a human character. The freedom to leap across rooftops, glide through the air, and unleash devastating attacks adds a layer of excitement that is hard to replicate in more conventional games.

The Moral Ambiguity of Monstrosity

One of the most intriguing aspects of playing as a monster is the moral ambiguity that often accompanies it. In many games, the line between good and evil is blurred, forcing players to confront difficult ethical questions. For example, in Undertale, players can choose to either spare or destroy the monsters they encounter. While the game allows for a pacifist route, it also offers a “genocide” route where players can eliminate every creature in the game. This duality forces players to reflect on their actions and the consequences they have on the game world.

Similarly, in The Darkness, players control Jackie Estacado, a mafia hitman possessed by a demonic entity known as The Darkness. Throughout the game, players must navigate Jackie’s internal struggle between his humanity and the monstrous power he wields. The game’s narrative explores themes of redemption, corruption, and the nature of evil, challenging players to consider the moral implications of their actions.

The Challenge of Being the Monster

Playing as a monster is not without its challenges. These games often require players to think differently, as the traditional rules of engagement may not apply. In Evolve, players can take on the role of a monstrous creature that must outwit and outmaneuver a team of human hunters. The game’s asymmetrical multiplayer format means that the monster player must use stealth, strategy, and raw power to survive, creating a gameplay experience that is both intense and rewarding.

Additionally, the monstrous perspective can be isolating. In Shadow of the Colossus, players control Wander, a young man who must defeat massive, ancient creatures known as colossi to save a loved one. While Wander is not a monster in the traditional sense, the game’s narrative and atmosphere evoke a sense of otherness and alienation. The colossi, despite their size and power, are often portrayed as tragic figures, and the act of defeating them can feel more like a burden than a triumph. This emotional complexity adds depth to the gameplay, making it a memorable experience for players.

The Impact on the Gaming Landscape

Games where you play as a monster have had a significant impact on the gaming landscape, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of storytelling and gameplay. These games often explore themes that are rarely addressed in more mainstream titles, such as the nature of evil, the consequences of power, and the struggle for identity. By placing players in the role of the monster, these games challenge them to see the world from a different perspective, fostering empathy and understanding in ways that traditional games cannot.

Furthermore, the success of these games has inspired developers to experiment with new ideas and mechanics. The popularity of Carrion and Prototype has shown that there is a demand for games that offer a fresh take on the traditional hero narrative. As a result, we are likely to see more games that explore the monstrous perspective in the future, each offering its own unique twist on the concept.

Conclusion

Games where you play as a monster offer a unique and often unsettling experience that challenges players to think differently about the world and their place in it. These games explore complex themes, offer thrilling gameplay, and push the boundaries of what is possible in video game storytelling. Whether you’re consuming everything in your path as a shapeless horror, grappling with the moral implications of your actions, or outwitting a team of human hunters, these games provide a perspective that is both refreshing and thought-provoking. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how developers continue to innovate within this fascinating subgenre.

Q: What are some other examples of games where you play as a monster?

A: Some other notable examples include Dead by Daylight, where one player takes on the role of a killer hunting down survivors; Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse, where players control a zombie wreaking havoc in a 1950s-style city; and Destroy All Humans!, where players control an alien invader bent on conquering Earth.

Q: How do games where you play as a monster differ from traditional horror games?

A: Traditional horror games typically cast the player as a vulnerable human character trying to survive against monstrous threats. In contrast, games where you play as a monster often reverse this dynamic, making the player the source of fear and destruction. This shift in perspective can create a different kind of tension and excitement, as players must navigate the game world from the perspective of the “villain.”

Q: Are there any games that allow players to switch between human and monster perspectives?

A: Yes, some games offer the ability to switch between human and monster perspectives. For example, in The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction, players can switch between Bruce Banner and the Hulk, each with their own unique abilities and gameplay mechanics. Similarly, in Werewolf: The Apocalypse – Earthblood, players can transform between human, wolf, and werewolf forms, each offering different ways to approach challenges.

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