Games Where You Don’t Matter – Investment Policy

Summary

Games like Kenshi and Starsector offer a unique gameplay experience where the player’s impact on their surroundings seems minimal.
Titles like Oblivion and Kingdom Come: Deliverance feature protagonists who are not seen as the big hero of the story, regardless of their actions.
Games such as This War of Mine and The Banner Saga emphasize the struggle for survival without the playable characters being chosen heroes.

In many video games, it’s common for players to feel like powerful entities, towering above the artificially intelligent characters (NPCs) who often seem less intelligent and skilled. Frequently, players find themselves in roles where they are considered the chosen one, destined to save the world from some impending doom or villain.

As a gamer, I’ve found myself in situations where my character seems more like a spectator than a protagonist. In these games, the key events unfold right before my eyes, but sadly, my actions seldom make a difference. It feels like no matter what choices I make or actions I take, the world around me carries on as if I’m not even there.

Kenshi

Unforgiving & Ever-Changing World

In a frequent blend of challenge and entertainment, Kenshi stands out as an open-world sandbox game that acknowledges players who are quick to adapt. Starting with absolutely nothing, there’s no predefined protagonist or objectives; instead, it’s up to the player to determine their own purpose, which usually revolves around enduring for as long as possible in this unforgiving and hostile environment.

In Kenshi, although the player-character has some control and effect on the game environment, it’s primarily shaped by the actions taken by non-player characters (NPCs), particularly influential figures such as faction leaders. Some players might find Kenshi challenging to grasp initially, but those who stick with it often appreciate being a minor piece in this intricate and harsh world.

Starsector

Space Sandbox With Sophisticated Economic & Political Structures

A space role-playing game, Starsector, has been consistently upgraded for over a decade since its release. This game generates a universe procedurally, offering intricate political and economic systems. Players begin with a small fleet of spaceships and navigate through this expansive and complicated cosmos by trading, fighting, and forging alliances.

During conflicts, you might have opportunities to sway specific groups by either aligning with them in battles or negotiating beneficial trade agreements. However, a lot of events can transpire independently of player actions. Power dynamics and territories can change without intervention, and the economy is constantly fluctuating with varying rates, tariffs, and even bans on certain goods depending on the region.

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion

The Tale Of Martin Septim

In the game “The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion,” the Hero of Kvatch plays a significant role, yet it’s Martin Septim who garners recognition and is recorded in history. While the player can gain prominence by finishing side missions and guild tasks, many NPCs still tend to view them with some disdain.

When the emperor selects a player to aid in saving the world and fulfill a prophecy, it might seem like a random choice, yet it could be far from a mere coincidence. In such a scenario, Martin proves himself to be the hero when it truly counts. This sentiment can also be applied to its predecessor, Morrowind, where the player-character is but one of several possible candidates for the Nerevarine title.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky

Fight Or Form Alliances In The Zone

In comparison to its precursor, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky might seem somewhat predictable due to players who have played the earlier version having a basic understanding of where the plot is heading. The character you control in this game is a mercenary named Scar. Within the Zone surrounding Chernobyl, there are various factions that can be aided or confronted. However, the conflicts between these groups do not significantly influence the progression of the main storyline.

It’s important to understand that the alliances Scar has can significantly impact the complexity of certain missions within this series. This could be challenging for beginners, given that the game is renowned for its intense combat. Be prepared to experience frequent deaths while you familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the gameplay mechanics.

Mount & Blade: Warband

A Changing Medieval World

Warband” is an independent extension of the original role-playing game, set in a world that evolves dynamically. This medieval sandbox game lets you embark on adventures across the realm of Calradia with full freedom, engaging in various activities as long as encounters with marauders and armies are managed or overcome.

In simpler terms, there’s no defined goal or boundaries to what can be achieved. Gaining greater recognition broadens the scope of tasks you can accept from influential figures. However, the world naturally evolves independently of external intervention. Leaders of factions have unique desires and actions that may vary in each gameplay session.

This War Of Mine

Just Survive In Pogoren

In simpler terms, “This War Of Mine” is a powerful and unforgettable game that immerses you in the life of civilians struggling to survive amidst a city under siege. Since you can’t influence a truce, your goal as the player is to keep your characters alive until one happens, which typically occurs after about 35 days.

During foraging expeditions, survivors might stumble upon other individuals who could be friendly or aggressively hostile. It’s evident that the characters you control are just like everyone else. Since death can suddenly appear, it’s important to focus on vital resources and avoid taking unneeded chances.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance

Common Blacksmith Turned Soldier

In the game named “Kingdom Come: Deliverance,” Henry from Skalitz is apprenticed as a blacksmith, devoid of any predestined heroic narrative common in numerous other RPGs. He partakes in captivating side quests and a storyline that evolves based on his choices, yet he’s merely one of the many resisting the encroaching Hungarian army in the Kingdom of Bohemia.

As Henry moves through his tale, his behaviors might boost his standing among Non-Player Characters (NPCs), yet he typically keeps a low profile. Primarily, the narrative revolves around Henry’s personal development and the growth of those close to him during challenging circumstances.

The Banner Saga

Decisions Will Not Impact The World, But They Will Impact The Caravans

As a devotee captivated by Norse lore, I find myself immersed in “The Banner Saga,” a game that empowers me to guide two distinct groups of survivors navigating a realm threatened by the relentless Dredge, intent on extinguishing humanity. The gaming experience is intricately woven, with role-playing sections demanding tactical decisions, and strategic management of my caravans. In combat scenarios reminiscent of XCOM, each victory or defeat carries significant repercussions.

In simpler terms, the travelers in these groups might not make a significant difference in the larger context, as they primarily concentrate on staying alive in harsh environments. Although each character appears crucial to both the players and themselves, from a broader perspective, they are essentially insignificant entities.

2025-08-08 03:18