10 Most Iconic Small Towns In Video Games

In a narrative, the environment plays an equally crucial role as the characters, for it lays the groundwork for the overall lifestyle portrayed within the story. The diversity of human experiences is mirrored across different fictitious settings, ranging from sprawling metropolises to oppressive wildernesses.

Just like characters, the setting in a story plays a vital role, as it forms the backdrop for the lives and culture depicted throughout the tale. A wide range of human experiences can be found across various fictional environments, encompassing everything from bustling cities to desolate wildernesses.

Many fictional tales often choose small towns as their setting, making it a familiar and understandable environment for readers or players – indeed, even in the realm of video games.

In many video games, these tiny towns serve as the initial setting for numerous characters embarking on their epic journeys, providing an unassuming start to the tales of our mythical champions.

As a gamer, there are certain small towns that have deeply resonated with me – from my first steps into gaming to cherished memories of exploration. These places have etched their unique charm and challenges into the annals of video game history, earning a spot in the pantheon of iconic gaming locales for every kind of gamer out there.

10. Monteriggioni

Assassin’s Creed II

The tale of Assassin’s Creed II is deeply poignant, as the main catalyst revolves around the unfair demise of a father and two brothers, tearing apart the close-knit family. In the wake of this devastation, Ezio Auditore and what remained of his kin found themselves forced to leave Florence in search of refuge. It was not until they reached Monteriggioni, where Uncle Mario resided, that they finally found solace in his home.

In simpler terms, the town requires quite a bit of renovation, renovation that happens to be within the financial capabilities and management skills of the Auditore family. As the game progresses, players have the opportunity to invest in upgrading Monteriggioni, an investment that proves beneficial as it generates income over time.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the charming town that served as a sanctuary for the illustrious Auditore family, known for their covert activities in the Assassin’s Creed lore, and provided a home for its hardworking residents. The joy and fulfillment I experienced while nurturing and expanding Monteriggioni, a feature that regrettably hasn’t been reprised (to such an extent) in other Assassin’s Creed games, remains unparalleled.

Monteriggioni beautifully demonstrates transforming a dwelling into a cozy abode. Originally a neglected slum, it has been metamorphosed into a tranquil sanctuary hidden from the hustle and bustle of the world. It’s charming, practical, and serves as a labor of love all at once.

9. Valentine

Red Dead Redemption II

In simpler terms, the introduction to “Red Dead Redemption II” can be described as somber. There’s a sense of chilliness, sorrow, and apprehension among the gang. As the story unfolds, it becomes evident to the player that something deeply troubling occurred in Blackwater.

As they successfully navigate through the rugged winter mountains and establish their temporary home at Horseshoe Overlook, a place steeped in game nostalgia, the group yearns for contact with civilization to generate income. Remarkably, they stumble upon this need in the nearest town, which goes by the name of Valentine.

In Valentine, players find their adventure truly unfolding as they grasp the fundamental aspects of the game. This is when the expansive open world really begins to reveal itself. It’s one of the initial locations where players encounter a gun store and other establishments, making it a popular destination for exploration on the map.

This small-town setting harks back to the classic Wild West era, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia, particularly for those who played the original ‘Red Dead Redemption’ game.

8. Riverwood

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” consistently excels at constructing immersive worlds and using its surroundings to tell stories, a skill that is evident in the various settlements scattered across the game’s map.

After Helgen’s events, players generally have the freedom to explore wherever they desire. However, they frequently end up progressing along the main storyline, which ultimately leads them to Whiterun.

Most travelers often find themselves pausing in a quaint, lesser-known town named Riverwood on their journey towards Whiterun Hold. Perched at the foot of the mountain that ascends to the Throat of the World, Riverwood plays a significant role as a training ground for many Dragonborn, offering them introductory side quests and memorable characters.

Following an unexpected encounter with a real-life dragon assault during an unscheduled execution, Riverwood serves as a sanctuary. Players experience a heightened sense of security within its intact walls, untouched by the destructive forces of Alduin so far.

Additionally, as players construct a house, they frequently revisit Riverwood to acquire necessary supplies. This could be through the blacksmith, trader, or other resources. It’s a straightforward location that allows players to kickstart their game with essential items, making it a noteworthy spot for the Dragonborn to restock on supplies.

As characters journey towards the beloved city of Whiterun, the nostalgic echoes of Riverwood remain, much like the memories of a cherished childhood residence.

7. Arcadia Bay

Life is Strange

In “Life is Strange,” the entire story unfolds in a tranquil Oregon town named Arcadia Bay, where your decisions ultimately shape its destiny. As Max Caulfield, a teenage girl endowed with mysterious time-travel powers, you gradually uncover the chaos caused by the butterfly effect.

Throughout the game, you dedicate all your efforts to shielding Arcadia Bay from an impending storm, even as time runs out. However, a heart-wrenching twist reveals that you must give up your dearest friend, Chloe Price, to save the town. It’s important to note that players do have the option to forfeit Arcadia Bay instead.

The town isn’t particularly notable, serving mainly as a pit stop for truck drivers, with many locals unaware of its past. Yet, it offers a chance to connect deeply with the residents, peeking into their lives and, in certain instances, helping them survive. It truly embodies the authentic charm of a small American town.

This is a charming coastal village that many residents of the Pacific Northwest might feel a strong affinity for, discovering a sense of belonging amidst the blend of old-school charm and modern upheaval.

6. Goodsprings

Fallout: New Vegas

In no game has a fictional city influenced its real-world counterpart as significantly as Goodsprings, Nevada, did following the release of Fallout: New Vegas. Nestled within the Mojave Wasteland, this town, funded by the National Capital Region (NCR), serves as the starting point in the game, offering players their initial tutorial quests and shops to establish a solid foundation for gameplay.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that just like on the game map within Fallout, the real-life Goodsprings town in Nevada has become equally iconic. To this very day, enthusiasts of the game gather annually at this location, significantly boosting the town’s economy through a novel and distinctive form of tourism.

The town is quite modest in its offerings, with only a saloon, a general store, a gas station, and Doc Mitchell’s residence. However, it’s not an empty desert, simply a tiny oasis of tranquility amidst the chaos of the Mojave.

As a passionate fan, I find it mind-blowing to consider how such a seemingly ordinary, peaceful western-style town could leave an indelible mark on the real-world infrastructure – it’s hard to believe! It’s important to note that this isn’t an exact replica; rather, it’s a streamlined representation. Yet, the impact it had on gamers has been far greater than one might initially expect.

5. Your Town

Animal Crossing

Indeed, one of the most memorable representations of a small-town setting in video games is the one you build in the “Animal Crossing” series. In “New Horizons,” it’s an island, but in almost every other game, it functions as a town.

In this scenario, you’ll be responsible for maintaining the town, overseeing the villagers (usually a small number), planning the layout of the town, and arranging everything according to your specific ideas and plans.

With every day that passes, this town gradually feels like your own nurturing child. You diligently design and build your home within it, while tending to its surroundings. And when terraforming comes into play, the level of care and attention only intensifies.

Players have the freedom to call their town anything that suits them, with the added perk of being able to change it if they are dissatisfied. Regardless of any changes made, the town will remain a cherished spot in each player’s heart.

4. Mineral Town

Harvest Moon

The “Story of Seasons” games, formerly known as “Harvest Moon,” are widely recognized for their comforting and soothing gameplay experience, with “Harvest Moon: Friends of Mineral Town” being a particularly beloved title within the series. This game was re-released in 2019 as “Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town.

In this game, you find yourself in a charming town named Mineral, a place that grows on you as you play. Notably, it’s among the rare titles where farm-related activities, whether in real life or game terms, prove to be enjoyable and fulfilling.

As they uproot weeds and gather crops, players will ponder ways to enhance their town further. They’ll discover potential improvements in every nook and cranny.

Make sure to regularly check your calendar, since the season plays a crucial role in deciding what crops can be planted. This is something that farmers everywhere face in reality.

3. Pelican Town

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a charming life simulation game that begins with you settling into a fresh town called Pelican Town, which swiftly turns into your home base. Here, you’ll encounter various villagers and immerse yourself in the game universe, finding it instantly endearing and nostalgic.

This small town embodies the charm of quaint, hole-in-the-wall American towns you pass by during a road trip. Although it offers only essential amenities, its character shines through in every corner, making it the hub of the community.

This place beautifully embodies the type of intimate human settlement we’re often comfortable with, and even yearn for, where people know one another well and are friendly, yet there remains a sense of mystery and unexplored aspects.

In a simple, conversational tone: Pelican Town feels incredibly familiar to me, an American, as if pieces of my homeland are woven into its fabric.

2. Kakariko Village

The Legend of Zelda

Over time, “The Legend of Zelda” series has consistently shaped some of gaming’s most memorable landscapes and personalities, such as quaint villages like Kakariko Village, which is admired not only by fans of “Zelda,” but by gamers in general.

For many who grew up during the Nintendo 64 gaming era, it’s often their initial encounter with this particular town that goes by the name of “Ocarina of Time.” In my case, I was introduced to it through “Twilight Princess,” which might suggest something about my personal gaming history.

In Breath of the Wild (and its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom), I found Kakariko Village to be masterfully crafted. Unlike the barren and empty village from the old games, this one feels vibrant and alive. It may still be small, but it’s teeming with character and charm.

Regardless of which game you look at, this location stands out as a defining feature across the entire series, consistently serving as a source of knowledge and growth for Link in every installment.

1. Silent Hill

Silent Hill

One of the most recognizable small towns in gaming lore is arguably Silent Hill, hailing from the horror game series that shares its name. In 1999, when players were initially introduced to this mysterious town, there wasn’t much known about it; however, upon release of Silent Hill 2, the game portrayed the town as serene and tranquil despite its eerie reputation.

In the remake of “Silent Hill 2,” they introduced an innovative feature: a trivia-style puzzle within the Otherworld of Brookhaven Hospital, which tests your knowledge about the town’s history if you’ve been thorough in your exploration.

Silent Hill is a picturesque, lake-side town nestled in the misty, coastal region of Maine. Its primary source of income comes from lakeside tourism. Disregarding the cult, the monstrous creatures, and all the other unsettling visuals that the series presents, it’s a breathtaking location that many would likely visit if it were accessible today.

Truly, when contemplating small-town settings in video games, Silent Hill often resurfaces in people’s thoughts. If this fact doesn’t hint at the game’s profound effect on the human mind, maybe playing it would offer a personal understanding of its chilling influence.

2025-01-23 20:10