Games Where Humanity Is The Villain

This list contains spoilers!

Summary

Video games let players see humanity as the bad guys in different ways, providing fun and meaningful experiences.
Games like Maneater, Terra Nil, and Shadow of the Colossus explore themes of environmental destruction and humanity’s darker side.
Undertale and Nier: Automata challenge RPG conventions by casting humanity as the villains, offering unique storytelling perspectives.

It’s not hard to imagine that other beings might see us as the villains. In fact, many video games explore this idea by presenting scenarios where we are the antagonists. What’s even more enjoyable is the occasional chance to battle against humankind in these games.

Occasionally, the player assumes the character of a menacing creature yearning for chaos among the mischievous humans. At other times, the players find themselves controlling humans, who initially seem benign but are later revealed to be malevolent forces. This list is arranged based on the excellence of the game and the depth of insight provided by humanity being portrayed as the antagonists.

8. Maneater

Primal Rage

In the game “Maneater“, players initially step into the role of a shark that has suffered a traumatic event at the hands of humans. Instead of seeking peace, they choose to seek retribution, often by consuming vast amounts of other fish and growing as large as possible to create chaos. This growth allows them to access an array of impressive abilities.

In the vibrant, animated realm of Maneater, I find myself transforming into a fearsome shark, on a rampage against the humans who are poisoning nature and mercilessly slaughtering innocent creatures. It’s cheesy yet thrilling fun, with some unexpectedly engaging game mechanics that keep me coming back for more.

7. Horizon Zero Dawn

Self-Inflicted Apocalypse

Prior to the launch of “Horizon Zero Dawn”, one of the most intriguing mysteries revolved around the circumstances that resulted in the post-apocalyptic condition of the world, where human civilization vanished and was replaced by robot dinosaurs, giving rise to a new tribal society unaware of their ancestry.

Indeed, it’s revealed in the primary storyline of the game that humans had become extremely self-destructive towards the end of their existence. Their overconfidence, or hubris, ultimately led to their downfall and brought the planet close to ruin. The remnants of their technology, including a malfunctioning AI, serve as grim reminders of humanity’s decline.

6. The Last Guardian

Trico Trouble

The game titled “The Last Guardian” faced numerous delays and apprehension following its launch, only to receive less praise from critics than anticipated. Regrettably, this masterpiece, which elegantly continues the tradition of “Shadow of the Colossus” by showcasing mankind’s use of violence against the unknown, didn’t get the recognition it deserved.

The primary theme in this narrative revolves around Trico, a colossal creature that resembles a mix of a cat, dog, bird, and snake. This extraordinary being serves as the guide for our main character, leading them back home. Unfortunately, humans display hostility towards Trico, often reacting aggressively even when he’s just an innocent animal. The game portrays humanity as irrational, with the tragedy stemming from our failure to attempt understanding Trico and his species, instead opting for violence and hunting.

5. Terra Nil

Environmental Disaster

The issue of climate catastrophe is a significant concern for good reason, as there are few predicaments similar to it, leaving many feeling helpless in finding solutions. However, an unexpected indie game called Terra Nil has emerged and flipped traditional strategy mechanics on their head by focusing not on expanding human industry but on its dismantling, allowing nature to reclaim the environment instead.

As a gamer, I find myself immersed in a unique blend of puzzle-solving and strategic gameplay. In this captivating world, my mission is to restore the desolate planets that humanity has left in ruins due to their greed and selfishness. But it’s not just about rebuilding; it’s about leaving no trace of my presence – as if I were never there. This thoughtful game carries a powerful message about environmental renewal, making it both inspiring and perfect for beginners like myself.

4. Inside

Industrial Hellscape

This game, Inside, is a peculiar one that’s hard to put into words. It’s more captivating when experienced than explained. The mysterious way it shrouds the collapse of humanity and refuses to reveal its reasons, adds to its intrigue, even if the ending is sad. It keeps you thinking long after the game ends.

In this game, players navigate a young protagonist through a bleak, dystopian society where humans have degraded themselves to near-animalistic levels, performing cruel experiments and hunting outsiders. It’s a harsh environment, serving as a chilling reminder of the extreme depths to which humanity can descend when at its worst.

3. Shadow of the Colossus

Man vs Nature

For quite some time in video gaming, it was generally accepted that players were the heroes, as they were the ones rescuing princesses, saving worlds, and restoring balance. However, Shadow of the Colossus wasn’t the first game to challenge this notion, but it certainly was the first to question it so profoundly that it fundamentally altered the course of games in the future.

In this game, players take on the role of hunters pursuing enormous peaceful creatures known as colossi, with the ultimate goal of rescuing a princess. However, it’s revealed that the colossi are not aggressors and are part of a harmonious world. Players, on the other hand, are portrayed as the antagonists, while humans are depicted as destructive and disregarding entities who trample upon others’ dignity without hesitation. This game has become legendary due to its thought-provoking message about the nature of power and the consequences of human actions.

2. Nier: Automata

Humanity Destroys Itself

As a dedicated gamer, I can confidently say that Nier: Automata is one of the greatest games I’ve ever played. This game, a post-postmodern marvel, weaves self-critical commentary so intricately that it sometimes feels like an existential nightmare. Each playthrough adds layers to the philosophical turmoil experienced by androids tasked with carrying out mankind’s brutal wars and chaos.

Throughout the course of the game, the android and robot characters gradually become aware of themselves and each other, even pondering the true nature of the alien beings they encounter. This intricate narrative presents humanity in an unfavorable manner.

1. Undertale

The Modern Bogeyman

In 2015, when Undertale was launched, games that manipulated a player’s expectations were nothing out of the ordinary. However, it was truly remarkable how innovative Undertale was in redefining the fundamental assumptions of RPGs and challenging the role of violence, which is traditionally central to the functioning of this genre, by offering a fresh perspective.

In this storyline, humans and creatures once lived harmoniously, but now the creatures are being pursued and driven underground due to human fear and hostility. However, it’s revealed that these creatures aren’t as monstrous as they seem, and humanity’s assumption of their genocide is a grave danger. If desired, players can explore a darker path, dabbling in evil for a sinister taste.

2025-06-04 05:54