10 Best Games Where You Play As A Robot

It’s often suggested that the main character in a story should resonate with anyone who’s reading or watching it. While making the character human is the most straightforward approach, it’s not always necessary for the character to be human.

It’s fascinating to take on the roles of characters from films, TV series, or video games, even though we may not resemble them exactly.

Among the widely admired characters not belonging to the human race, one stands out – the robot. Given their mechanical nature, they are as distinct from us humans as can be, yet this disparity paves the way for unexplored ideas and sensations.

Some robot-centric games delve into the philosophical question of what it truly means to be alive and possess emotions similar to humans, whereas others simply employ robots as an exciting platform for high-octane action sequences.

Either way, these are some of our favorite games with robotic protagonists.

10. Mega Man

Rock N’ Roll

One of the earliest and widely recognized robot characters in video game lore is Capcom’s flagship character, better known as the Blue Bomber – Mega Man. While the original game was released on NES, you would have needed to refer to the manual to get the complete backstory, but it’s actually quite intriguing.

Originally designed as a household cleaning robot named Rock, Mega Man, in essence, was the sole operative remaining when Dr. Light’s other robots became corrupt. He was left to tackle the problem.

It seems that perhaps due to his simple beginnings, Mega Man consistently demonstrates an ideal blend of mechanical skill and human bravery in all his encounters, whether the first or subsequent ones.

Due to his Variable Weapon System, he gains the abilities of vanquished Robot Masters, allowing him to wield those powers himself. However, his fundamental skills like jumping and firing should not be underestimated.

Did you know? A manga series titled “Mr. Mega Man” exists, featuring the grown-up version of Mega Man. In this story, he acts as a mediator for both humans and robots who are fighting for human rights. Interestingly, he also works as a dentist in his spare time.

9. Metal Arms: Glitch In The System

One Bot Against The World

In numerous science fiction narratives, there’s often a depiction of lower-tier robot species rising against their human creators. However, consider a scenario where both parties involved in the conflict are robots themselves. The notion of creations turning against their makers is quite dramatic, but what if these mechanical adversaries were all robots?

As for me, if things were less intense, they’d still have their share of excitement – at least that’s what my experience with Metal Arms suggests.

In Metal Arms, you assume the role of a reactivated robot named Glitch, fighting for the Droid Rebellion against the aggressive Milbots. Since neither party in this struggle is human, everyone’s tougher than usual, but that just means the need for bigger firepower – think laser cannons, flying circular saw blades, and dual-action rocket launchers.

As a gamer, I’ve found that sometimes, I might not take down an opponent in a single hit, but I can surely cripple their limbs, rendering them nearly helpless. Quite amusing, isn’t it?

A key attraction of this game lies in the Control Tether feature, allowing Glitch to take over enemies directly on the battlefield. With an accurate shot, you’ll find yourself swiftly moving behind enemy lines, unleashing a barrage of bullets at their backs.

8. NieR: Automata

Being An Android Is Suffering

A robot isn’t similar to a newborn child; it doesn’t arrive with an inherent reason for existence. Instead, a robot is constructed, and its function is predetermined.

For the robots in NieR: Automata named YoRHa, their role is to eliminate Machine Lifeforms and safeguard any remaining fragments of humanity. This objective seems admirable, and undoubtedly one that’s worthy of sacrificing oneself countless times. Indeed, it appears so.

2B, the main character of Automata, shares a common trait with other YoRHa combat models: she lacks a specific objective. Instead, her purpose is to eliminate any Machines she encounters. She accomplishes this using a mix of large swords and powerful energy weapons in fast-paced, aerial combat.

Beyond simply being a top-tier action role-playing game, NieR: Automata also delves deeply into thought-provoking themes such as free will, predestination, and the meaning of life. Is a robot capable of feeling pain fundamentally distinct from a human being? This is one of the intriguing questions posed by the game.

7. SteamWorld Dig

I’m A Digging Machine

Have you ever experienced the thrill of witnessing a colossal mining drone at work? It’s quite a spectacle, watching this engineering titan devour through the most challenging layers of earth and rock. Over the ages, machines have been an integral part of excavation, making it only natural that a game centered around a mining robot would be an ideal match for me as a gamer.

In the game SteamWorld Dig, you take on the role of a steambot named Rusty, who has recently arrived in the rundown mining town of Tumbleton following news of his uncle Joe’s demise.

Even though Rusty doesn’t view himself as a seasoned miner, his impact on the local mining sector is what truly drives prosperity in the town.

As a robot gamer like Rusty, I’ve got an edge over human miners when it comes to delving deep into the Earth. You see, unlike humans, I don’t need air to keep breathing, which makes me a lot safer in tight, confined spaces. However, just because I don’t breathe doesn’t make mining a walk in the park. The deeper I go, the more dangerous it gets, uncovering lethal traps like pools of acid from the ancient Old World.

6. Ultrakill

No Oil? Use Blood

Consider this thought experiment: If a robot inhabited a world devoid of humans, would it recognize itself as a robot, or would it simply consider itself as an ordinary object? This question, though intriguing from a philosophical standpoint, is not something Ultrakill spends any time contemplating.

You want something to ponder? Ponder a gun in your hands.

In the realm of Ultrakill, humans are extinct, Hell has reached its capacity, and the only resource available is blood. There’s hardly a moment to contemplate existence, as standing idle invites a hail of bullets or depletion of your blood supply. Unfortunately, either fate could befall you.

To efficiently defeat your enemies, it’s best to do so swiftly and theatrically, allowing you to absorb their energy and replenish your resources.

Just like tearing through levels with the slick speed and style of a Devil May Cry character, surviving in Ultrakill requires an uncanny level of agility and power that feels almost supernatural.

You need to take out nine individuals using a handgun, a shotgun, and a rocket launcher in rapid succession. Make sure you act swiftly.

5. Astro Bot

Robots Can Be Cute

In the timeless phrase of a tiny academic, robots can be adorable. Regardless of whether they are equipped with weapons or protective armor, all robots possess the potential to be charming.

Indeed, it’s possible to design robots with adorable features like a plush, spherical shape and a lively LED expression, much like the charming character of Astro Bot, isn’t it?

Astro Bot is an adorable tiny robot who soars through the cosmos aboard a massive PlayStation 5 alongside his fellow robot pals. Although he’s quite endearing, Astro is no pushover – he leaps from platform to platform and fights off pesky robots and aliens that try to block his path.

Working together with his fellow robotic companions enables him to unveil extraordinary skills such as jumping great heights or temporarily freezing time.

Due to its uncomplicated structure, Astro is exceptionally versatile when it comes to various clothing options and accessories. The perfect outfit and wig transform him into numerous video game characters, making it easy for his PlayStation-inspired friends to be instantly recognized.

4. Chibi-Robo!

Like A Roomba That Loves You

It’s quite common for people who own cleaning robots such as Roombas to attribute human-like qualities to them, even though they are simply following pre-set routines with no actual intelligence. Over time, the robot’s sounds and actions can become familiar and soothing, leading to a sense of attachment.

Or consider this scenario: If you had a cleaning robot that identifies you specifically, it would be solely focused on bringing joy to you by diligently carrying out its cleaning tasks.

In the game called Chibi-Robo, the tiny title character was designed and marketed specifically to bring joy to the family. Despite his small size, it’s his mission and delight to assist wherever possible.

Should there be litter found, he’ll dispose of it. In case of stains on the rug, he’ll clean them up. Despite being primarily associated with household tasks, Chibi-Robo goes beyond that to offer genuine assistance in various situations.

He’s able to communicate and engage directly with his owners, answering their queries and disputes, while also locating essential items such as a lost wedding ring or potentially communicating with alien beings from different time periods.

3. Soma

Humanity Is Overrated

Pondering over the concept of transferring a human consciousness into a mechanical form, one cannot help but wonder if such an act might equate to forfeiting one’s humanity.

Is it only your consciousness that defines your essence as a human being, or do you cease to be human if you no longer have a physical body made of flesh and bones? This idea lies at the heart of the philosophical concept known as Soma.

In the story by Soma, the main character Simon initially thinks he’s a human who was suddenly transported into a far-off future and abandoned in an old underwater research facility. However, it soon becomes evident that he is merely a replica of someone else’s consciousness from times past, and has never truly been human.

Despite continually grappling with his non-human nature, he continues to think and feel as a human would, yet he’s often compelled to acknowledge his inhumanity when confronted by impending peril.

One chilling aspect of the sci-fi adventure Soma lies not just in the intermittent encounters with hall-roaming monsters, but also in the unsettling revelation that the tiny neural sparks composing your very essence might be more common than previously believed.

2. Grow Home

Reach Out Your Hands

While it’s commonly believed that robots and living organisms such as plants and soil are fundamentally different, there’s surprisingly much in common between them in terms of their development and behavior.

According to Grow Home, when equipped with suitable programming and resources, robots and plants can coexist harmoniously. In this game, the main character, a small robot named BUD, is assigned to cultivate a massive beanstalk that would supply his home planet with much-needed oxygen.

Through careful placement and nurturing of plants, you can establish additional connections and strongholds on the floating islands, gradually approaching your goal while beautifying the surroundings with vegetation.

Absolutely, since a robot’s hands aren’t as agile as a human’s, you’ll have to manually guide BUD’s hands as he scales up. In a way, this mirrors the theme; even though a robot may lack finesse and precision in its hands, it can still contribute beauty and growth to the world with determination.

1. Lies Of P

Robot, Puppet, Same Difference

A robot, in essence, refers to any mechanical being that can move and operate independently. This definition isn’t limited to machines made of metal or electronic components; even intricate puppets filled with gears and springs can qualify as robots if they are complex enough to function autonomously.

Also, clockwork robots like those in Lies of P are cool, and deserve recognition no matter what.

In the world of Lies of P, the main character is a uniquely crafted doll, designed to appear as life-like as feasible, yet retaining an unmistakable puppet quality.

In these Soulslike battles, it’s obvious that this opponent isn’t just another player; there’s something inhuman about him. Yet, he’s got an uncanny strength and precision, making quick work of the other puppets who’ve lost themselves in a mad dance of skillful combat.

In an intriguing twist compared to many other puppet characters, the main character in Lies of P possesses the unique capability to deceive. Even seemingly harmless falsehoods serve to make him more human-like, enhancing his capacity for independent thought and decision-making.

2025-04-12 16:10