10 Games That Transform Real World Locations

Occasionally, we get so captivated by the breathtaking landscapes in video games that we may overlook the beauty surrounding us in real life.

In much the same way, the urban landscapes of our actual cities are no less fascinating than the glowing metropolis of Night City or the crime-ridden back alleys of Gotham City.

Developers often need to use creative license when constructing today’s video games, as they can’t always create every square inch of a densely populated city with meticulous detail.

In this collection, you’ll find games that take ordinary real-life places and turn them into immersive, virtual environments you can explore. At times, merely viewing your local area on Google Maps falls short, and stepping into it within a gaming universe is the next best thing.

10. United States Of America (Death Stranding)

Reconnecting A Fragmented Country

In the game Death Stranding, the barren, moss-laden terrain where Sam Porter Bridges delivers packages is referred to as “America” in name alone, since it lacks distinct landmarks that suggest we’re in any of the states suggested by the game’s setting.

There’s a significant explanation for this: the incident known as Death Stranding led to catastrophic void-outs, similar to nuclear blasts that violently rocked the earth. Additionally, there’s Timefall, an unusual and lethal rain that speeds up time, causing plants to grow and wither almost instantly in Death Stranding‘s version of America. Essentially, this world is virtually unrecognizable compared to our own.

In the game “Death Stranding,” the setting is primarily based in America, but its visual style is heavily influenced by the rugged cliffs and verdant mountains of Iceland.

Taking a peek at the game’s map could lead you to observe that several of the Knot Cities seem to be modeled after actual cities. It appears that Capital Knot City may have been influenced by Washington D.C., and Edge Knot seems to be reminiscent of Los Angeles.

9. Washington DC (The Division 2)

Explore The Capitol

In the realm of Tom Clancy’s games, The Division and its successor The Division 2, a fictional outbreak called Dollar Flu swept across America, claiming countless lives and necessitating a nationwide lockdown.

In The Division 2, the main action unfolds in Washington D.C., where numerous iconic historical and government sites, like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, have been meticulously recreated to resemble their real-world counterparts that can be seen today.

In this digital world I’m navigating, as I stroll through the cityscape, I come across vestiges of a turbulent epidemic – graffiti-scrawled monuments and shattered structures are all too common. But fear not, venturing into what appears to be a hazardous Dark Zone in this game won’t end up with me meeting my maker in reality.

8. San Francisco (Watch Dogs 2)

Featuring The Bushman

In Watch Dogs 2, the game takes you on a journey through a reimagined San Francisco, turning it into a bustling urban jungle ripe for exploration and hacking fun!

In their effort to capture the essence rather than every minute detail, Ubisoft has meticulously reproduced numerous important features of San Francisco’s cultural landmarks, such as popular tourist spots and even the Bush Man, a street character who startles pedestrians by hiding among foliage near Fisherman’s Wharf.

Similar to many games depicting real-life settings, Watch Dogs 2 aims to represent San Francisco authentically, offering an insightful portrayal of the city to outsiders, and including hidden references (Easter Eggs) that local residents can identify during their explorations within the urban landscape.

7. Tsushima Island (Ghost of Tsushima)

Officially Recognized By The City

A game truly captures the essence of a place if its local tourist board collaborates with the game for marketing purposes, thereby boosting tourism.

In the story of Ghost of Tsushima, we’re transported to the island of Tsushima located within the Nagasaki prefecture of Japan. The narrative presents a creative interpretation of the actual Mongol invasion that occurred during the latter part of the 13th century.

In the stunning landscapes of Ghost of Tsushima, a carefully designed atmosphere prevails. This game isn’t about mirroring the actual island or aiming for meticulous historical precision; instead, it draws inspiration from the island’s geographical features and allows itself some artistic freedom.

In the captivating game “Ghost of Tsushima”, one significant location to explore is Komoda Beach, where the opening events unfold and mark the initial invasion of Tsushima by the Mongols.

6. Paris (Assassin’s Creed Unity)

Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité

As a dedicated fan, I’ve always appreciated how Assassin’s Creed masterfully weaves elements of actual history into its captivating narrative. It’s fascinating to see the game’s mythos seamlessly integrated with significant historical milestones and iconic moments that resonate deeply within our cultural consciousness.

In the tradition of the Assassin’s Creed series, “Assassin’s Creed Unity” is set in Paris during the French Revolution towards the end of the 18th century, where you join the struggle against the oppressive aristocracy led by the rebels. A key event you’ll participate in is the Siege of Bastille, a pivotal moment in the Revolution.

Exploring “Assassin’s Creed Unity” is akin to embarking on a historical journey through Paris, allowing you to encounter numerous significant landmarks such as the Palace of Versailles, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and even the Catacombs.

5. Seattle (The Last Of Us 2)

Overgrown But Not Forgotten

Through its sequential narrative style, Naughty Dog masterfully depicted the city of Seattle as a devastated landscape, much like the one portrayed in most parts of The Last of Us 2.

As you meander through the deserted and lush streets, you’ll observe that numerous buildings and constructions mirrors their actual counterparts almost perfectly, with the Space Needle and Seattle Central Library standing out as particularly striking examples.

On the first day, many Seattle locations where Ellie and Dina begin their quest to find Abby are discoverable, as they enter the city to gather leads in their pursuit.

Or:

During Day 1, numerous spots around Seattle that can be leisurely uncovered present themselves as Ellie and Dina start their search for Abby within the city, aiming to follow up on leads.

4. Kingdom of Bohemia (Czech Republic)

Going Medieval

Generally speaking, many traditional games are set in either England or France. However, unlike most, “Kingdom Come: Deliverance” and its upcoming sequel are set in the Kingdom of Bohemia, which is currently part of the Czech Republic.

To ensure authenticity in representing the historical environment of 1403, Warhorse Studios went the extra mile by meticulously depicting various architectural landmarks such as the Sazava Monastery.

In several locations stretching from Sazava to Rattay, the landscape serves as a blueprint for the setting in “Kingdom Come: Deliverance”. You’ll notice that you can scrutinize every corner of the monastery, and discover that your tedious weeding task was perhaps unnecessary, as the real-life counterpart of this location is entirely overgrown.

3. Kabukicho (Yakuza 0)

Don, Don, Don, Donki, Don Quijote

Instead of discussing Japan as a whole or highlighting that many games like “Like A Dragon” and its sequels are set in Yokohama, I’ll zero in on Kamurocho, a place renowned for being the most emblematic location within the entire “Yakuza” series.

Kamurocho, much like Tokyo’s Kabukicho in real life, serves as the primary backdrop for many of the main Yakuza games. This area is renowned for its striking resemblance to the Shinjuku ward’s Kabukicho district.

In Kamurocho, you’ll find SEGA arcade game centers, Don Quijote discount stores, and numerous eateries, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking an authentic Tokyo experience.

2. New York (Marvel’s Spider-Man 2)

Empire State Of Mind

Could anything be more emblematic than the skyscraper-filled urban landscape, often referred to as the city where dreams come true, merged with the most universally recognized superhero in human civilization’s history?

The Marvel’s Spider-Man series brings the intricate urban landscapes of New York City remarkably close to reality on your PlayStation, nearly replicating it in its entirety.

In addition, the game features various iconic sites where Spider-Man can scale walls and even snap photos for souvenirs.

Whilst navigating and leaping through the busy streets of Manhattan, you’ll catch sight of the timeless Empire State Building and the renowned High Line, a place where both locals and visitors stroll above the hectic city traffic.

Insomniac Games made some adjustments by incorporating Marvel characters, such as a bronze statue of Marvel’s teleporting bulldog Lockjaw instead of the Charging Bull, due to licensing concerns. Additionally, Fisk Tower appears mysteriously close to where Trump Tower would be located.

1. Hong Kong (Sleeping Dogs)

The Fragrant Harbor

Growing up in Hong Kong, I can’t help but shower praise and affection for the game “Sleeping Dogs” (perhaps it’s just the nostalgia talking). This often overlooked title does a fantastic job of capturing my cherished hometown with great artistic freedom, all while preserving its unique culture and essence.

Experience the pulsating energy of a sea of taxis and buses, under the glittering array of neon lights – such is the unique vibe of Hong Kong, a city that everyone ought to explore at least once in their journey through life. If a flight to Hong Kong isn’t within reach, immersing yourself in the world of Sleeping Dogs video game will certainly offer an engaging replica of what it feels like to be there.

In addition to the captivating scenery and props, what truly breathes life into Hong Kong in “Sleeping Dogs” is the blend of traditional and contemporary cultural artifacts, as well as the authentic Cantonese dialect and accents that United Front Games meticulously worked on to ensure an accurate representation.

2025-02-16 20:10