9 Best Biopunk Games You Need To Play

The term ‘Biopunk‘ refers to a type of storytelling that falls under the broader category known as Cyberpunk, although they aren’t always linked directly. Both genres often share common themes and atmospheres, but there may be differences.

In a Biopunk setting, we delve beyond the fusion of cybernetics and information technology with the human body; it explores genetic engineering and biotechnology as well.

In a Biopunk environment, one can expect ideas such as biotech based on organic materials, genetic modification, intentional genetic alterations, and various playful transgressions against the idea of life to arise.

At times, you find yourself resisting entities trying to spread such intrusive alterations, while on other occasions, unfortunately, you become a recipient of it yourself.

If you don’t mind a touch of unsettling biotech elements, games that fall under the Biopunk genre could offer you fascinating backdrops and game mechanics.

9. BioShock

It’s Right There In The Name

One of the biggest faces of Biopunk in the gaming sphere is, perhaps unsurprisingly, BioShock.

Though Rapture’s technology might seem just a tad ahead for its era, it’s the extensive use of the gene-manipulating substance called ADAM that truly sets this place apart.

Inhabitants of Rapture could use ADAM’s unstable stem cells to make direct genetic modifications within their own DNA.

This involves not only adjustments to their physical makeup, but also extraordinary skills such as moving objects with mind power (telekinesis) and igniting fires.

Indeed, overfilling your system with harmless tumor-like cells comes with numerous detrimental consequences, making it a significant factor in the overall decline, both symbolically and physically speaking, that led to the collapse of the city.

8. Prototype

Making Monsters

In a Biopunk universe, not every instance of genetic modification or transformation is voluntary. Take Alex Mercer, for example, the main character from the game Prototype.

Alex’s body is under the influence of a experimental virus, granting him the ability to change and transform himself spontaneously and dramatically whenever he wishes.

With each passing day, his comprehension of his powers deepens, accompanied by an increase in his diet of organic matter (such as consumption of humans). In turn, his abilities undergo bizarre transformations.

It’s strongly advised that you strive to expand your skills to the fullest extent, regardless of whether this might involve performing actions that could potentially harm blameless individuals, instead focusing on seeking opportunities for self-improvement while ensuring respect and care for others.

7. Cruelty Squad

Buy Organs In Bulk And Save!

In Cruelty Squad, the entire world is more or less owned by corporate interests.

In your role as a corporate enforcer, you’re often advised to strive towards being as formidable or powerful as realistically achievable. The phrase “monster” here is used metaphorically to imply an extremely strong and intimidating figure within the corporate world.

You have a variety of options for bio-mechanical enhancements that you can incorporate into your body to boost your combat skills.

These include a grappling line organ in your arms and friction-eliminating oil glands in your feet.

Additionally, you can gather organs from deceased adversaries and illegally trade them, should that be of interest to you.

6. Prey

Everyone Loves A Needle In Their Eye

Among the games listed here, Prey stands out as it subtly incorporates its Biopunk elements compared to others which might present their themes more overtly.

They’re definitely still there, though, and you’ll know it as soon as you pick up a Neuromod.

Neuromods utilize Typhon DNA to make direct changes and upgrades to your mind and body.

This is done through a needle injector, directly into your brain, specifically the area located beneath your eyeball. Quite intriguing, isn’t it? (Or, Here, the injection happens right in your brain, just under the spot below your eye. Isn’t that exciting?)

In this game, the idea of enhancing oneself with Neuromods to approach or depart from being fully human is a common theme. This decision significantly influences the outcome of the story.

5. Scorn

Good Ol’ Giger

Any fan of unsettling body horror is familiar with the works of artist and designer H.R. Giger.

Scorn is a Biopunk video game noticeably inspired by the unique, ribbed biomechanical designs that are characteristic of HR Giger’s artwork.

Scorn is a Biopunk game with a distinctively gruesome, ribbed bio-mechanical aesthetic, drawn heavily from the works of HR Giger.

In this game, scarcely any instant goes by without you either fitting your body parts into some sort of mechanical organism or vice versa, as the mechanical organism gets integrated with you.

As a dedicated enthusiast, I don’t really approach this with the intention of pure amusement. Instead, it’s about immersing myself in its profoundly eerie and desolate essence.

4. Resident Evil 5

A Notable Example In A Bio-Heavy Series

The Resident Evil series carries a Biopunk theme, given that its original Japanese title is “Biohazard,” which hints at this.

In these Resident Evil video games, the central theme is the manipulation of both human and viral genes to design “biological weaponry,” which are referred to as “bio-organic weapons” or simply “B.O.W.s.

Among all the Resident Evil games, it’s likely that Resident Evil 5 has the most significant emphasis on Bio-punk elements.

This game features the most instances of deliberate self-mutation on the villains’ part.

In my perspective, the transformation I underwent due to the Oroboros virus serves as the central driving force behind this narrative. I’m determined to share this alteration with the globe, shaping the course of the world.

3. High On Life

Not You, But Your Weapons

Despite the playful, somewhat whimsical vibe, High on Life indeed showcases a detailed and imaginative Alien Cyberpunk environment.

The weapons that you use in this game are all sapient creatures called Gatlians.

Each one has been modified biologically or organically in some way, enhancing their suitability for use in firearms.

Furthermore, the enhancements you acquire for your Gatlians are likened to various body organs, such as a heart, a lung, or a spleen.

These mysteriously get installed into your Gatlians, a process we prefer not to contemplate too deeply.

2. The Ooze

Who Doesn’t Want To Be A Pile Of Snot?

Engaging in self-genetic modification carries approximately equal chances – about a 50% likelihood – of resulting in becoming a significantly enhanced individual, or unfortunately, ending up as an unremarkable heap of waste matter instead.

As a fervent enthusiast, I found myself immersed in “The Ooze,” a gripping narrative that casts me as a wronged scientist. After a wicked corporation secretly doses me with their sinister serum and discards me like a used tissue down the drain, I’m left seething with rage, but not without the determination to seek justice.

In the role of the Ooze, you have the ability to absorb enemy troops and monstrous creatures to boost your mass, and also squeeze through grilles and tight openings.

Besides fighting against the corporation, you also have the task of discovering the 50 strands of DNA in the game if you hope to reclaim your genetic code and transform back into a human being.

1. Parasite Eve

Make Your Own Mitochondria Joke

Instead of considering the human body as a solitary living organism, it’s more accurate to think of it as a complex ecosystem teeming with various tiny life forms cooperatively functioning.

In elementary school science classes, many people are familiar with a unique organelle often called the mitochondrion.

In the story of Parasite Eve, the narrative delves into the implications of a Biopunk world where every mitochondrion within you gains consciousness.

The outcome leads to a multitude of grotesquely transformed beings, capable of rapidly altering their cell structure spontaneously.

By harnessing the power of your activated mitochondria, you can, in essence, employ abilities akin to those of mutants, enabling you to counterattack effectively.

2025-01-31 19:40