10 Best Americana Video Games - Investment Policy

Generally speaking, people often gain insights into foreign cultures by consuming media, which provides them with a general image or perception of a particular group during a specific period. This principle holds true for Non-Americans trying to understand American culture as well.

To clarify, as an American, it’s essential to note that each state functions in many ways like an independent nation. The primary ties uniting the country are shared currency and a constitution. Moreover, when you delve into our cultural history, you’ll find significant variations across different regions.

To put it another way, certain video games exceptionally portray the lifestyle of America across different historical periods and social backgrounds. These games offer valuable insights into American life, regardless of whether they are based on reality or fiction.

Regardless of which ones you choose, these games are brimming with American culture and offer an enlightening perspective on the values and social behaviors prevalent among Americans.

10. Cyberpunk 2077

A Dark Mirror into Where Cities Are Headed

It’s clear that the game Cyberpunk 2077 is set in the future, but it’s hard not to notice how some striking resemblances have started appearing in our current world. As technology advances, so does our society, and as we seem to be transforming into a surveillance-focused capitalist state, some people can’t help but wonder: isn’t this starting to feel like living in Night City?

In some aspects, the game appears as if it was inspired by an episode of Black Mirror, but other parts undeniably fall into the realm of fiction. Yet, exploring Night City bears a striking resemblance to strolling around Los Angeles, featuring palm trees and a troubling number of homeless individuals. Remarkably, this game offers a significant commentary on how homelessness is addressed.

Unlike many games based in the U.S., Cyberpunk offers a stark reflection of contemporary urban America and the potential destruction it can face.

Exploring the complex issues of corruption, crime, suicide, and more, Night City stands as a stark warning, shedding light on potential futures our society might face if we’re not careful.

This becomes even more noticeable since businesses aim to display ads in the sky, further emphasizing the similarity between the game world and our own reality.

9. Life is Strange

A Pacific Northwestern Coming of Age

As a gamer, I’ve noticed that the sheer size of America makes it feel like a giant game map, with distinct regions offering unique experiences akin to levels in a game. Growing up, I found myself identifying not just with my state, but also with my region, as each area offered such a different gaming environment, much like how each level in a game provides a new challenge or adventure.

In the United States, every region boasts a unique lifestyle, encompassing factors such as climate, diet, and even local variations of the English language.

Among the various locations featured in “Life is Strange,” the Pacific Northwest region, encompassing Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of neighboring states as well as Canada, leaves a lasting impression. Specifically, Arcadia Bay, one of gaming’s most memorable small towns, is nestled within Oregon.

Though Arcadia Bay is now recognized primarily for the fateful decision it presents, along with your cherished companion, Chloe, it’s equally significant as an authentic depiction of a town typical in this area.

As I wander around the stunning Pacific Northwest, surrounded by towering mountains and tranquil fish-filled waters, it’s hard not to be taken aback by the breathtaking beauty of this place – a simplicity that’s both raw and captivating. And when I play Life is Strange, it feels like the game has somehow managed to bottle up this unique charm and let me experience it for myself.

Moreover, the game unfolds from the perspective of Max Caulfield, a teenager girl, as she navigates her growth during the 2010s – a fact clearly hinted at by the frequent use of the term “hella” by the youth.

It’s as if I’m getting a glimpse into another person’s world, albeit a somewhat mystical one. As a Midwesterner with mountain dreams, it’s also a form of escape for me.

8. Far Cry 5

Soak in the Vast Mountains of Montana

The beauty of mountains and hills across America is truly awe-inspiring everywhere, yet the Rocky Mountains in Montana stand out as simply iconic. Interestingly enough, these very mountains serve as the backdrop for the game “Far Cry 5,” accurately representing the state’s charm.

In Far Cry style, the untamed wilderness, angling, and game-hunting, along with the locals of Montana, are accurately depicted within the game.

The extraordinary aspect of this game lies mainly in its climactic, established conclusion that sets the stage for Far Cry: New Dawn, depicting a post-apocalyptic Montana. As wild as it might seem, it’s exactly what unfolds.

Even after multiple plays, the game remains famously enjoyable, with its archery elements being a standout feature, and it uniquely captures the essence of the American West.

The game continues to be notoriously fun, even after numerous playthroughs, thanks to its engaging archery mechanics, and it offers a unique portrayal of the American West.

Or simply:

Despite being played many times, this game is still famously enjoyable, especially for its intriguing archery mechanics, and it uniquely represents Western America.

7. BioShock Infinite

Steampunk Commentary on American Exceptionalism

When BioShock Infinite was released, it sparked debates that have lasted for decades, with our TopMob team even publishing two articles, amusingly enough, one in favor of and one against the game.

Needless to say, a lot of players can’t make up their minds about the game.

Regardless of whether they are fans of Bioshock or not, numerous players share a common viewpoint: the game is remarkably American in character. It’s bold and unapologetic about this, showcasing its distinct style to such an extent that some may overlook the underlying commentary it presents.

beneath the impressive steampunk style lies a narrative that critiques the Exceptionalism it employs in its storytelling. It’s an exceptionally clever demonstration of this, hidden under banners resembling those designed by Betsy Ross and a spirit as free as Elizabeth.

Although it presents an artistic perspective of the United States, it also offers a significant critique on a contentious issue that has spanned centuries. Instead of evaluating if it’s a great “Bioshock” game or even just a good game, consider its intentions instead.

6. Grand Theft Auto V

1-1 With the Modern Day West Coast

The “Grand Theft Auto” collection consistently presents an engagingly amusing perspective on disorder, allowing players to assume roles as assorted crooks across diverse locations within the U.S.A.

As a fan, I found myself immersed in the vibrant, fictional cityscape of Los Santos, nestled within San Andreas, which felt eerily reminiscent of L.A. The captivating game Grand Theft Auto V plunged me into this modern-day metropolis (considering its release in September 2013).

People who have visited Los Angeles will recognize that Los Santos draws heavy inspiration from it, evident in its architecture, palm tree-filled landscapes, and distinctive accents (which can be quite overt at times). Strolling around Los Santos mirrors strolling around Los Angeles in many ways; in essence, the two cities are remarkably similar.

As a fervent enthusiast, the prospect of Grand Theft Auto VI’s comeback to the vibrant cityscape of Leonida (Florida) sends a thrill down my spine. Visualizing the intricate detailing applied to Vice City makes me yearn for more, perhaps even pushing the boundaries of Non-Player Characters (NPCs) to capture the essence of the unique Florida Man lifestyle.

5. Assassin’s Creed III

The Colonies’ Rocky Beginnings

As a passionate fan, I must confess that my admiration for “Assassin’s Creed III” knows no bounds, particularly when it comes to its captivating depiction of Colonial America. It seems that this game has sparked quite a debate, yet I find myself completely enamored by it.

As a passionate gamer immersed in the Assassin’s Creed universe, I can’t help but appreciate how this franchise illuminates aspects of history often left in shadows. The unjust treatment of Native American peoples by early colonists is one such truth that must never fade from our collective memory.

In the United States, where I was raised, our history lessons were systematically structured, often filled with propaganda and incomplete truths, making them easier to swallow.

It’s a fact often overlooked that the establishment of America was both complex and distressing,” and “Assassin’s Creed III doesn’t avoid depicting this reality.

Upon its release, I promptly dived into playing this game post-high school, and I must say, the encounter was enlightening. Granted, the introduction might be lengthy, and admittedly, it isn’t entirely faithful to historical facts, but the storyline of Ratonhnhaké:ton felt refreshingly progressive for its era.

Moreover, the images are remarkably accurate, and the soothing natural sounds of the forest evoke a sense of nostalgia among many Americans today. This captivating portrayal offers a unique perspective on history that warrants more attention and appreciation in its entirety.

4. The Last of Us

A Roadtrip of Ruins

Although The Last of Us presents a post-apocalyptic setting, it doesn’t imply that every single thing in the United States has vanished overnight.

Actually, during their disastrous cross-country road trip, Ellie and Joel frequently stumble upon ordinary remnants of human existence, preserved like relics in a forgotten bedroom.

As I delve into the poignant moments of the narrative, there’s a scene that tugged at my heartstrings when Ellie peruses a girl’s diary. The question that resonates within me is, “Could this be the entirety of their concerns? Boys, movies, coordinating outfits? It seems almost surreal.

In “The Last of Us” (known also as “The Last of Us: Part 1”), we’re given a glimpse of how America might look if nature reclaimed it and civilization collapsed. As you progress through your protective duty, there’s an undeniable American spirit that fills the game.

Alternative clothing styles from The Last of Us appear remarkably similar to real-world outfits I often see in everyday life. This is a testament to the impressive work done by the costume designers.

3. Fallout Franchise

1950s Atompunk and Retrofuturism

It’s challenging to single out which “Fallout” game embodies the most Americana, as each one does so in its own way. By blending 1950s atompunk with their visions of retrofuturism, they all produce a distinctly unique and undeniably old-American ambiance.

This overlooks the real game content itself, since it often includes allusions to historical facts or real-world locations marked on maps.

The Minutemen were an actual historical group during the Revolutionary War, much like how Goodsprings is a genuine, albeit small, town that experienced a surge in tourism following these games.

Among all the games, none surpasses the others in this aspect, and I’m not overstating it; although it might be tempting to single out a game like New Vegas for instance, the truth is that each one offers a distinct representation of Americana, as well as commentary on avoiding such arrogance.

2. Alan Wake

(Accurately) Stunning Washington Scenery

The Pacific Northwest stands out as one of the most beautiful regions in the U.S., with Washington state being particularly breathtaking, boasting some of the densest and most verdant forests anyone could lay eyes on. Consequently, it’s no surprise that Alan Wake chose this location for its scenic backdrop, setting his story in the fictional town of Bright Falls.

It’s quite unexpected that these games aren’t set in Maine, given their strong resemblance to the works of Stephen King. Instead, it appears they chose to associate with the perpetual fog found in Silent Hill.

Alan Wake’s narrative stands out distinctively, yet it maintains a realistic ambiance within its universe. The horror elements are equally captivating, mirroring the intrigue of the storyline. The game is structured like an episodic series, giving players the sensation of viewing an episode of Twin Peaks from the early ’90s.

One drawback of this game is that there’s an inconsistency about Washington’s weather depiction. In the game, it never seems to rain, but in reality, Washington experiences almost constant precipitation.

1. Red Dead Redemption

All American Dreams and Cowboys

No game has quite managed to portray the authenticity and essence of American life as brilliantly as the Red Dead Redemption series. Among them, Red Dead Redemption II stands out as doing it exceptionally well.

Set in the era of the late 19th century, the Wild West region of America, there are preconceived notions about rough-and-tumble cowboys with their horses, bank heists, and disrespectful portrayals of Native Americans. However, these stereotypes are not reflected in “Red Dead Redemption”. Instead, it offers horses, bank robberies, but handles the portrayal of Native Americans more respectfully.

And yet, by the end of the games, you’re in tears.

In the U.S., the concept known as the “American Dream” is deeply ingrained since childhood, yet it frequently fails to portray the continuous hardship and sorrow associated with achieving it (and whether one can achieve it at all is a contentious issue).

Indeed, this game encapsulates the heavy burden of that cherished aspiration, all the more poignant as time marches forward and the era of lawlessness seems to fade away.

Beyond mere entertainment, I find myself deeply touched by the Red Dead Redemption series. It doesn’t merely perpetuate the conventional cowboy stereotypes we’re accustomed to; instead, it delves into the human heart, revealing complex characters grappling with genuine hardships, and offering a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the grit and yearning that defines the relentless chase of the American Dream.

2025-01-29 18:41