Games That Let You Play as the United States President

Highlights

Embrace the ultimate power fantasy of being the U.S. President in these unique games with outrageous twists and challenges.
Dive into games like Saints Row 4 and Metal Wolf Chaos for fantastical interpretations of presidential power in action-packed scenarios.
Explore the world of political simulators like Supreme Ruler Ultimate and Democracy 4 for a deep dive into policy-making and strategic decision-making.

As a seasoned political analyst with over two decades of experience under my belt, I’ve seen it all – from the rise and fall of world powers to the intricacies of domestic politics. My life has been a rollercoaster ride of policy debates, backroom deals, and public speeches.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve always been captivated by the allure of power fantasies in video games. Games like “Doom,” “Grand Theft Auto,” and “Yakuza” have lured me in with their promises of wielding immense power to unleash chaos, mayhem, and even occasional karaoke performances. Yet, none can compare to the ultimate power fantasy: leading the free world as its commander-in-chief. The thrill of making decisions that impact millions, shaping history, and leaving a lasting legacy is unmatched in any other gaming experience.

While becoming the president of the United States is a distinctly different kind of power experience compared to activities like carjacking, battling dragons, and engaging in regular gunplay, it offers a level of power that players may not normally have access to outside of virtual environments. Therefore, let’s explore some games that allow users to assume the role of the U.S. President.

10 Saints Row 4

From The Leader Of A Gang To The Leader Of The Free World

Games That Let You Play as the United States President

As a gamer, I’d put it this way: In Saints Row 4, during the early stages of the game, there won’t be much opportunity for me to delve into politics. But suddenly, two significant pieces of legislation land on my desk as the boss of our gang. We’re talking about curing cancer or ending world hunger here. With limited political clout as a gang leader, it’s quite a challenge. However, just when I think I’ve got things under control, aliens invade! Now, the political decisions I make are as simple as “shoot with an AK” or “throw a grenade.”

In an unprecedented and fanciful portrayal, Saints Row 4 likely claims the title for the most extraordinary representation of a US president. This game offers a distinctive character customization feature, and for the first time ever, players witness the chief executive board a rocket mid-flight and unleash explosives towards an alien spaceship.

9 Shadow President

Geopolitical Classic

I must admit, not many gamers these days would be drawn to a geopolitical simulator from 1993. But let me tell you, Shadow President was truly groundbreaking for its time. This game offered the unique experience of invading Canada or orchestrating coups in South America, but it wasn’t all fun and games. As the shadow president, I had to deal with managing public perception, securing victories at the ballot box, and keeping a tight rein on the budget. It was a challenging role that demanded strategic thinking and quick problem-solving skills. Despite its age, Shadow President still holds up as an engaging and thought-provoking game experience.

In an alternate version of the US, the path our nation takes hinges on the president’s choices. These decisions could lead us to a future filled with cyberpunk technology or surprising peace among nations.

8 Call of Duty: Black Ops

JFK Vs Zombies

If you’ve ever imagined hearing JFK exclaim, “I need more beans for the chowder!” as he reloads alongside Fidel Castro, Richard Nixon, and Defense Secretary Robert McNamara, all while enduring the inescapable din of zombie moans in the background, Call of Duty: Black Ops has a hidden zombies map named “Five” that can bring this fantasy to life.

As a gamer, I can tell you that instead of engaging in lengthy debates with cunning political adversaries, my friends and I will be battling hordes of zombies and demonic monkeys armed with pistols and shotguns. It may not be the most politically correct way to spend our time, but it certainly captures the excitement that JFK’s speeches bring to life.

7 Supreme Ruler Ultimate

Lead Most Nations

As a gamer, I can tell you that Supreme Ruler Ultimate takes the concept of a political game to new heights. Instead of being limited to pre-set historical contexts, I get to decide not only the politics but also the time and place of my game. This means I can wage wars when I see fit, join the second space race to Mars, or even move the country’s capital from Washington D.C. to Alaska if I so desire. The possibilities are endless, making each playthrough a unique experience.

In this strategy game, individuals have the freedom to transform 1950s Sweden into a society that adheres to the Non-Aggression Principle and anarcho-capitalism, or they can strive to make the Whitehouse a symbol of Soviet-era redness. To experience the game at its fullest, simply dive into the sandbox mode and follow your unique objectives.

With Supreme Ruler Ultimate, players have the power to govern over numerous countries, shifting the game’s perspective beyond the borders of the United States.

6 Metal Wolf Chaos

Step Into A Mech And Stop A Rebellion

Metal Wolf Chaos presents an extravagant take on U.S. politics as seen through the eyes of a mecha anime enthusiast, blending policy making with thrilling mecha battles in quick succession.

In Metal Wolf Chaos, there isn’t a lot of policymaking or governance to speak of. Instead, you’re treated to an abundance of thrilling, over-the-top action featuring massive mechs from beginning to end. It’s a shame that real-life civic actions were not as exhilarating as depicted in the game. If only that were the case, there wouldn’t be much of a country left, but boy, would it be an amazing sight!

5 SuperPower 2

Strategy Freedom

The community of “SuperPower 2” players is known for its strong bond, ensuring it remains an active multiplayer scene despite the game being older. For those who enjoy playing alone, the game’s advanced AI provides a formidable opponent among world leaders, offering a consistently engaging and unpredictable single-player experience.

In simpler terms, “SuperPower 2” allows players to have significant influence or even control over other nations’ economies, natural resources, and military installations, based on their personal inclinations. Players hold the power to make decisions such as liberalizing trade policies, exploiting natural resources, or launching military attacks during their term in office. Additionally, they possess the ability to extend their tenure beyond the prescribed limit, establish a monarchy, or proclaim themselves as the dominant naval force.

4 NBA Jam: On Fire

Presidents On The Court

Many real-life presidents have been featured in sports video games, but not all of them were playable characters. In the game NBA Jam: On Fire, Presidents Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Bill Clinton are not only playable, but they each bring unique abilities to the game. Given Obama’s famous installation of a basketball court at the White House, it makes perfect sense that he would make an appearance in this basketball-themed title.

Although it’s debatable if Clinton or Biden are skilled basketball players, just like in NBA Jam: On Fire, President George W. Bush is featured as well. Despite appearing less likely to be a basketball enthusiast based on his preferences, having him in the game adds an intriguing rivalry.

3 This Is The President

Nihilistic Sim

In many presidential simulation games, the user faces challenges related to economics, geopolitics, or ethics. But in “This Is The President,” it’s clear that the main objective for the new commander-in-chief is all about personal gain.

In the Oval Office, there are numerous substantial policy matters to tackle, along with various officials vying for the president’s attention and influence. For those with a cynical perspective on politics or a dark sense of humor, This Is The President may strike a chord as an authentic representation of political life.

2 Sid Meier’s Civilization 6

Alternate Presidential History

In Civilization 6, players begin their journey during the establishment of the United States of America in the year 4000 BC. This historical simulation offers an imaginative perspective on facts, as it’s unlikely that historical figures like Gandhi would have access to nuclear weapons. Nonetheless, your mission is to build America into its greatest form or face the consequences of its potential downfall.

As a dedicated fan of historical figures like Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, I’ve found that the longer term limits in Civilization 6, roughly around 6,000 years, offer an engaging experience that’s reminiscent of real-life presidencies – only extended and filled with more challenges. For those who appreciate the intricacies of cultural triumphs, Civ 6 is a presidential fix that doesn’t disappoint.

1 Democracy 4

All About The Policies

In the newest installment of engrossing politics sims with a spreadsheet twist, you assume the role of an anonymous new president. Following your election to the White House, it’s your responsibility to keep various demographic groups content or face losing the next election or even assassination.

In Democracy 4, there’s a reduced focus on military conflicts and a greater concentration on intricate politics. The user interface may not initially spark excitement, yet the depth of the game is captivating enough to keep even the most dedicated political enthusiasts engaged for hours.

2024-07-16 13:24