10 Games That Rewrite History - Investment Policy

In ordinary circumstances, we don’t often have the chance to pen new chapters for history, yet certain video games provide an opportunity to delve into alternate scenarios, all while avoiding the actual repercussions that might result from our decisions in reality.

Many games incorporate unique aspects of storytelling and setting development, but some games take it a step further by presenting intriguing ideas and provoking thoughts about alternate outcomes that might have occurred if past occurrences had unfolded differently.

Historical fiction can stretch its boundaries incredibly wide, encompassing everything from solving old enigmas to ongoing Cold War tales. Its creative possibilities span vastly diverse settings, such as a world blending supernatural and steampunk elements in Victorian England, or a society ruled by robots in the Soviet era.

Drawn from distinctive backdrops and frequently featuring genuine individuals from history, these works showcase the inventiveness and expansive scope that characterize historical fiction.

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These stories are set in unusual places and often include real-life historical figures. They demonstrate the creativity and diversity that make historical fiction a distinct genre.

Regardless if your interest lies in taking down Hitler on a personal level or surviving in a post-nuclear disaster scenario, these games are sure to offer you an immersive experience of alternate historical events.

10. Iron Harvest

WW1 With Mechs

In an alternate, steampunk-themed World War 1 setting, Iron Harvest offers a unique strategy game experience where the grim realities of trench warfare intertwine with the inventive use of frontline mechanical behemoths. Visually stunning and tactically important, these steam-driven battle machines are key to controlling the battlefield and securing victory.

In addition to its distinctive backdrop, Iron Harvest features distinctive factions modeled after the Allies and Central Powers, along with an engaging campaign that delves into an alternate version of European history.

For veterans of the Company of Heroes series, this game should feel incredibly familiar, as the building, assembly, and deployment process is almost indistinguishable from that in the World War II series.

1. The distinctive styles of the mech models really catch the eye, and the game has noticeably improved since its first release, becoming much shinier and smoother overall. (Informal)

2. The designs of the mech units are truly exceptional and worth noting, and the game has undergone significant refinement since its debut launch, resulting in a more polished and streamlined experience. (Formal)

9. Sniper Elite (Series)

Rewrite The Events of WW2

The Sniper Elite series is recognized for its dramatic slow-motion kill scenes and flexible mission layouts, but it also offers players an opportunity to influence history uniquely. In games like Sniper Elite 2, 3, 4, and 5, players can devise imaginative methods to eliminate Hitler, such as drowning him in a toilet or impaling him with a bowling pin through his head.

Although the game Sniper Elite doesn’t present anything extraordinarily implausible or beyond belief when it comes to changing the flow of the war, the chance to eliminate “The Führer” in such absurd ways offers an incredibly enjoyable and amusing experience.

In addition to its distinctive features, the game also strives for a decent level of historical accuracy. It employs actual weapons from history, replicates historical events, and often models its breathtaking game environments after real-world locales.

Standout features like tactical concealment and intense combat set Sniper Elite apart in the WW2 genre. While these games may have flaws, they undeniably excel in executing stealthy takedowns.

8. The Order: 1886

An Alternative British Empire

The Order 1886 is set in an alternative steampunk version of London in, you guessed it – 1886!

In your role as Sir Galahad, a part of the sacred band of knights known as the Holy Order, you’ll be tasked with safeguarding the city from diverse dangers. These perils may stem from unruly anti-government militias or even supernatural beings such as werewolves and vampires.

In this game, you’ll find technologies like railguns and airships (zeppelins), which make it stand out even within the popular steampunk genre. What’s more, the Knights of The Order get help from a fictional young Nikola Tesla, who is included as a playable character in the game.

In the 19th century, Great Britain was quite progressed. To consider a different timeline where this level of advancement occurred, could be seen as an alternative historical scenario. However, it’s important to note that this imagined history remains heavily influenced by real-world visual elements.

Although the narrative of this game progresses swiftly and linearly, its action sequences are skillfully executed and the visuals of the setting are breathtaking to observe. At present, The Order: 1886 can only be played on PlayStation 4, but there’s been much anticipation among fans for a potential PC version in the future.

7. We Happy Few

Orwellian and Psychedelic

If you’re curious about how extreme forms of positive thinking can manifest in a society, take a look at the game We Happy Few. With its distinctive, dreamlike aesthetic that resembles Salvador Dali’s work, this psychological action thriller offers an unforgettable and unique experience.

The story unfolds in the 1960s, following an alternate timeline after World War 2, with the game primarily focusing on the theme of a limited group of individuals under the influence of a powerful hallucinogenic substance named “Joy”. This drug subtly manipulates their perceptions and behavior, shielding them from the harsh realities that surround them.

Beyond just being intellectually intriguing, We Happy Few not only keeps you engaged but draws inspiration from classic works like Orwell’s 1984 and Huxley’s Brave New World. This mix creates an unsettling yet comical journey that peels back its cheerful exterior to reveal a world shrouded in darkness and decay.

Though the game doesn’t explicitly mention historical events, its social and political critique vividly portrays the fears debated by post-war British intellectuals. These concerns encompassed various topics, such as widespread use of synthetic medications, and even the emergence of a ruthless authoritarian police regime.

6. Atomic Heart

Soviet Science Gone Mad

Atomic Heart is undeniably one of the most visually impressive games that have been launched in recent times, not surprisingly as its developers, Mundfish, originally came from an animation studio background. The game’s unique take on Soviet history presents a fictional universe where the technological prowess of the USSR reaches its full potential, enabling them to develop sophisticated robotics and genetically engineered ‘polymer’ materials.

Besides intelligent robot-like characters and colossal mechanical structures, the game setting additionally showcases an abundance of architectural styles, tunes, and art reminiscent of the Soviet era. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t romanticize or glorify the Soviet Union in any way.

Rapidly, we may find that the structure of our understanding will start to crumble when we venture beyond the confines of what science can currently explain. Yet, it’s intriguing to imagine how the stark, functional style of Brutalist architecture and the methodical approach of science might manifest in a future scenario.

As a gamer, what truly stands out about this game is exploring Soviet society before its downfall, then revisiting familiar territories amidst the mayhem that followed. The gameplay can be merciless and unyielding at times, but those fleeting instances when I could pause to absorb the world offer a rare glimpse into an entirely different reality.

5. Command & Conquer: Red Alert (Series)

A Continuous Cold War

Command and Conquer has consistently led the Real-Time Strategy (RTS) genre, yet most of its sci-fi titles are set way ahead in time and frequently on distant planets. However, the Red Alert series stands out as it explores an alternate history scenario where Hitler never came into existence, depicting a cold war-like conflict.

Instead, Stalin and the Soviet Union kick-started a new global conflict that showcased advanced technology, including mighty battle mechs and weapons stationed in space.

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Similar to many games within the Command & Conquer series, the gameplay showcases the pinnacle of real-time strategy (RTS) gaming. However, what sets this series apart from others in the same genre, particularly those with a sci-fi theme, is its Cold War atmosphere, which resonates deeply with many players.

The campaign boasts some memorable highlights, such as Tim Curry’s iconic portrayal of Premier Cherdenko, yet the real fun often lies in organizing grand-scale conflicts within the skirmish setting.

Although the Red Alet series may seem a bit old-fashioned when considering its visuals and storyline, if you can approach it more casually and appreciate it as a nostalgic classic, you’ll find yourself immersed in countless enjoyable hours of user-friendly gameplay.

4. Wolfenstein (Series)

Fight Your Way Through The High Castle

Regarding alternate history narratives, only a handful of games have excelled like the iconic Wolfenstein series. Originating in 1981, this franchise presents a universe where the Axis powers emerged victorious from World War II, establishing a ruthless rule over the United States and Europe instead.

The show is renowned for its extreme and violent gameplay mixed with humorous and captivating scenes. In the role of B.J. Blazkowicz, you’ll be assigned to eliminate swarms of technologically advanced Nazis, as well as their formidable mechanical inventions.

As a dedicated fan, I’ve noticed that the Wolfenstein series spans an impressive eight games. However, these games can be roughly divided into two distinct eras. The initial era includes my favorites like Wolfenstein 3D, Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory, and the legendary Return to Castle Wolfenstein. The more recent games fall under what’s known as the Alt History Collection, which includes The New Order, The Old Blood, The New Colossus, and Young Blood.

As a dedicated fan, I must admit that while Activision’s 2009 release of Wolfenstein is part of the series, it stands somewhat alone, not serving as a seamless transition between the classic games and more recent titles.

Among all the games available, Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus stands out as it presents an alternate history where America is under Nazi occupation. This game also offers a downloadable content pack called The Freedom Chronicles, which focuses on the experiences of ordinary individuals living in this oppressive society.

3. Cyberpunk 2077

Japanese Corporatism Conquers California

In apparent contrast to its initial appearance, the Cyberpunk universe boasts an intricate history that stretches back to the Second World War. After Japan’s surrender, the Arasaka family emerged as a key player in technology development during the 1960s. Over time, they expanded their influence and eventually became a formidable global megacorp with significant worldwide presence.

In the years 2021-23, Arasaka emerged victorious in what was known as America’s “Corporate Wars,” establishing almost complete control over Night City. However, this dominance was disrupted when Johnny Silverhand detonated Arasaka Tower in 2023.

The city known as Night City was founded in 1994, yet numerous significant incidents, including the fall of the U.S. federal government and the emergence of Free Net technology, have significantly impacted the game’s setting from the years preceding 2077.

Indeed, the game’s universe is vast and versatile enough to span across various media platforms, including comics, animated series like “Edgerunners”, and even a novel such as “No Coincidence” penned by Rafal Kosik.

2. Bioshock (Series)

Art Deco Dystopia

In a parallel universe where metropolises are built submerged beneath the ocean waves or suspended aloft in the heavens, the Bioshock series stands out as one of the most imaginative and unique games within the realm of retrofuturistic storytelling.

The underwater Art Deco city known as Rapture was presumably built in the late 1940s, whereas the floating city of Columbia can be traced back to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Unlike Rapture, which reportedly had its structures initially built above water and then submerged, Colombia was once an American territory but later evolved into a separate society in the year 1902.

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The unsettling settings of Rapture and Colombia are captivating and shrouded in enigma, richly infused with socio-political insights that are skillfully woven into the extraordinary narrative of their environments throughout the series.

As a passionate enthusiast, I can’t help but be awestruck by the blend of captivating backdrops and inventive techno-architecture reminiscent of different eras in these games. What truly sets them apart is their deep connection to American exceptionalism and capitalist ingenuity, a shared trait that adds an extra layer of authenticity and immersion.

1. Fallout (Series)

If The Cold War Kept Cooking

The Fallout series stands out as one of the most identifiably futuristic video game brands with a retro twist. In this fictional universe, the escalation of the Cold War led to some significant deviations from real-world history.

In the world of Fallout, China transforms into a global expansionist force, eventually launching invasions on the United States. The U.S., at this point, is harnessing nuclear energy for various purposes, including robotics, weaponry development, and technological advancements.

Moreover, atomic energy is utilized in our daily routines, while fictional entities like Vault-Tec wield significant influence over governmental decisions.

In the television show, places depicted vary from Washington D.C., Boston, all the way to the glittering cityscape of New Vegas, with an addition of London, thanks to the dedicated modifying group of fans for Fallout 4.

Although the actual nuclear war isn’t predicted until 2077, numerous events and circumstances that contribute to it significantly change the flow of history. However, these changes aren’t so drastic that they turn the story into something completely unrealistic.

If you aim to make a lasting impact in history, every game offers a multitude of decisions and outcomes, some of which even permit players to obliterate entire cities by means of nuclear attacks!

2025-03-09 16:14