Animal Games

How Animals Reshaped the Gaming World

From the earliest days of gaming, animals have played a role, evolving from simple characters to complex, narrative-driven figures that have transformed the gaming landscape. In the beginning, animals often appeared as enemies or collectibles, such as the famous ghosts in "Pac-Man" or the fruit-chomping birds in "Space Invaders." However, as video games progressed, the significance and complexity of animals in these games grew. They transitioned from mere background elements to central characters, companions, and even the core of gameplay, influencing game design, player empathy, and storytelling in profound ways.

The emergence of animal-focused games like "Nintendogs" for the Nintendo DS showcased a new dimension of emotional engagement, allowing players to care for virtual pets. Other titles, such as "Stardew Valley," highlighted the importance of farm animals in the daily life and economy of the game world, while "Red Dead Redemption 2" featured a horse that became as significant as any character the player interacted with. These examples illustrate how animals can transcend mere gameplay mechanics, becoming integral to the narrative, teaching players about responsibility, companionship, and the natural world.

Moreover, games like "Okami" and "Stray" pushed the boundaries further by placing players in the role of an animal, offering unique gameplay mechanics and perspectives that challenge traditional gaming norms. "Okami" draws on the myth of the Japanese sun goddess, Amaterasu, who takes the form of a wolf in a story about restoration and beauty. In "Stray," players navigate a futuristic world as a curious cat, emphasizing exploration and interaction with the environment. These games demonstrate how animals can reshape the gaming experience, providing fresh perspectives for storytelling, puzzle-solving, and interaction.