Meet the Most Nihilistic Protagonists in Horror Gaming History!

Summary

Characters like Heather Mason, Simon Jarrett, and Daniel embrace nihilism in horror games due to their traumatic experiences.
Ellie from The Last of Us Series is shaped by her harsh post-apocalyptic reality.
Protagonists like Jimmy from “Mouthwashing” and James Sunderland from Silent Hill 2 showcase complex, nihilistic perspectives.

Horror video games immerse players in desperate scenarios, presenting them with disturbing images and circumstances that could make them question if they can escape unscathed, both mentally and physically. While the portrayal might seem bleak, it doesn’t necessarily lean towards nihilism. Instead, these games offer a challenging, intense experience that demands players to confront their fears and push through adversity.

Such types of heroes may seem scarce compared to those who cling to the promise of a beacon leading them to sanctuary, or possess the courage to rush headlong into peril to carve a path of escape. Nonetheless, such valiant individuals do indeed persist.

This list contains spoilers!

7. Heather Mason (Silent Hill 3)

Becomes Desensitized to the Horrors

In “Silent Hill 3”, the storyline continues from the original “Silent Hill”, with players taking control of Heather, Harry’s now-teenage daughter. Despite her tough exterior, she still harbors affection for her father. Upon her homecoming, she encounters a nightmarish alternate world and must confront bizarre monsters that challenge our understanding of reality and logic. As the story progresses, she faces increasingly terrifying creatures while embarking on a mission to seek vengeance for her father.

In a similar predicament, most people might question their core beliefs, and this certainly applies to Heather. Over time, she grows less affected by the horrors she encounters, a trait that makes her one of the bravest horror protagonists ever. However, her hardened attitude also leans towards nihilism. In an incredibly nihilistic twist, Heather’s final confrontation is with a reincarnated deity – a battle that doesn’t get more nihilistic than that.

6. The Painter (Layers of Fear)

The Artist Takes His Own Life in One Ending

As a gamer immersed in Layers of Fear, I find myself meandering through an endless labyrinth of a mansion, where each hallway and room unveils a piece of the enigmatic plot. This grand manor houses a painting that subtly evolves as I progress, reflecting my decisions throughout the game and ultimately shaping the climactic ending.

Right from the start, it’s evident this tale isn’t a cheerful one. Tragically, the painter has experienced the passing of his beloved wife, plunging him into a battle against overwhelming depression, sorrow, and remorse. One of the conclusions amplifies these distressing feelings to nihilistic levels as he sets fire to his artwork, home, and himself, concluding that life and his craft no longer hold meaning without his inspiration.

5. Simon Jarrett (SOMA)

Begins to Question His Existence and Humanity

Created by the group behind chilling games like Amnesia and Penumbra, Soma stood out as one of Frictional’s most thought-provoking titles. It delved into challenging philosophical questions within its dystopian sci-fi backdrop. Following a car accident that left him with a head injury, Simon consents to undergo an experimental brain scan, which subsequently transfers his consciousness into a robotic body in a submerged research facility.

In the process of examining the place and interacting with the solitary other intelligent entity, Catherine, Simon discovers that virtually all of mankind has been digitized and stored aboard a spaceship due to Earth becoming unlivable. This revelation sparks questions within him about the essence of life and what truly defines being human. However, upon learning that only a duplicate of himself made it onto the Ark, Simon succumbs to despair, trapped for eternity within the facility.

4. Daniel (Amnesia; the Dark Descent)

Erases Memories of His Atrocities with an Amnesia Potion

One of the indie horror game sensations back then was Amnesia, which had numerous sequels and a bustling modding scene that introduced new levels and maps to the game. The original story revolves around Daniel, a man who regains consciousness after drinking a potion that erased most of his memories. As he explores a foreboding castle through flashbacks and discovering notes hidden within, he gradually recalls why he took those memories away and what actions lie ahead for him next.

In the unfolding of events, it seems I’m left with no choice but to eliminate Alexander, who deceived me into carrying out despicable acts. The concoction was my means of coping with the weight of those actions on my conscience. The guilt weighs heavily upon me, pushing me to consider an act as severe as murder, showing how hardened I’ve become. Given my tumultuous past, it’s clear that innocence or idealism were never part of who I am, even before the latest trials I’ve faced.

3. Ellie Williams (The Last of Us Series)

A Harsh Life Has Shaped Her Character

Ellie grew up amidst a zombie outbreak, which means she never experienced the same optimism, purity, and joy that children born under normal circumstances enjoy. Sadly, Ellie falls into the latter category, and what’s more, she could be crucial in finding a cure since she seems resistant to the virus after being bitten. However, for a cure to be developed from Ellie, she would have to perish. In the end, Joel opts against carrying out this grim act, allowing Ellie to survive as the main character in Part 2.

From the outset, Ellie was hardened and somewhat disillusioned towards the world and its inhabitants. She often scorned those who lived before the apocalypse and showed initial contempt towards Joel. However, as time passed, she grew to accept him. Despite finding love and moments of joy, Ellie remains impulsive, as evidenced by her decision to seek revenge against Abby, potentially risking Dina, their relationship, and the life they had established together.

2. Jimmy (Mouthwashing)

Orchestrates the Ship’s Crash With Little Regard for His Life or the Crew

Mouthwashing stands out as one of the finest independent horror games ever produced, skillfully tackling sensitive subjects with sensitivity and respect to deliver a genuinely chilling and authentic experience, despite being set in outer space. The character Jimmy plays a dual role as both the protagonist and antagonist, making him one of the most intricate video game characters ever created.

Jimmy, the disheartened joint captain, manipulates the ship towards a catastrophic collision with an asteroid, falsely pinning the blame on the gravely wounded Curly. This act, carried out with scant concern for those who might be hurt or perish, suggests he may have wished for everyone’s demise. This incident unfolded shortly after they learned their jobs would end following this final delivery, causing widespread anxiety among the crew and pushing Jimmy towards a nihilistic viewpoint concerning both his own life and that of others.

1. James Sunderland (Silent Hill 2)

Believes Deep Down He Deserves Punishment

In contrast to the narrative set up in the first game, Silent Hill 2 presents an entirely different storyline within the ominous town that shares its name. Originally a peaceful vacation spot for the couple James and Mary, it has since transformed into a chilling, misty landscape inhabited by grotesque creatures, among whom Pyramid Head stands as the most menacing figure. James’ return to this haunting place was triggered by a letter he received, seemingly from his deceased wife.

In my perspective, I wasn’t finding exactly what I was searching for, but I was compelled to acknowledge a harsh reality I had hidden away – that it was me who took my wife’s life. Pyramid Head embodies my longing for punishment, mirroring the profound emptiness within me. Despite learning to let go of guilt and sorrow, the entire game unfolded because of James’ unique perspective on existence.

2025-02-20 07:06