Are you looking for video games that center themes of connection to each other and our environment? Then look no further! We’ve got you covered. These are the best games for environmentalists. They’d make a great gift for gamers interested in environmental justice. Especially if that’s you!
#5. OKAMI (PS4, XBOX, Nintendo Switch)
Okami is an adventure game like Nintendo’s long-running “The Legend of Zelda” franchise. The series follows Amaterasu, a wolf-deity who has the power to restore and heal nature. It’s based on a Japanese folk-tale. Amaterasu heals the land, air, and sea from an evil polluting force. With its unique art style based on Japanese ukiyo-e paintings and its themes of respecting nature, Okami is worth your time.
#4 Kena, Bridge of Spirits (PS5, XBOX, PC)
Kena, Bridge of Spirits is an action and puzzle game inspired by Balinese folklore. Players take control of Kena, a spirit guide, who is able to talk to the spirits of nature. These spirits play a role in giving Kena powers to solve puzzles and restore the nature of her world. The game is stunning to look at, rivaling that of a Pixar movie.
#3 Stardew Valley (Mobile Phone, PS4, XBOX, Nintendo Switch)
If you’re looking for something with less stakes, Stardew Valley might be the game for you. Released in 2016, the game has gone on to be one of the best games of all time. A signature “cozy” game. Your character inherits their grandfather’s farm and you now have to make sure it grows. The fun of Stardew Valley is watching your farm grow as you manage resources. It also has a multi-player component where other players can help do tasks on each other’s farms to raise their levels. It’s like having your own virtual co-op!
#2 Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch)
Nintendo’s Animal Crossing franchise has been a mainstay for “cozy” gaming. Its themes of building community in natural places it high on this list. After creating your character, you become mayor of a small island. Your island neighbors rely on you to help grow and cultivate the island helping the community thrive. The game encourages players to visit other players’ islands. There they can interact with neighbors, trade flowers, crops, and other items. Animal Crossing rewards players for being thoughtful neighbors and tending to the needs of the island’s environment.
#1 Final Fantasy VII Remake (PS4, PS5, PC)
For the last 36 years, the Final Fantasy series has been a mainstay in video games. It’s often seen as a leader in gameplay and storytelling for the medium. Back in 1997, the original Final Fantasy VII wowed gamers. 25 years later the game is being remade and re-imagined. Many of the original staff are bringing its narrative to modern standards. The game follows a group of heroes fighting an evil corporation that uses the life force of the planet for energy. In the game, the planet’s energy is being depleted. You play as main character, Cloud Strife. You’re tasked to assemble a team to help stop the Shinra corporation before the planet loses all its natural resources. Without spoiling more, Final Fantasy VII Remake and both its sequel Rebirth, and the original 1997 release underscore the need for respecting our planet in its narrative and gameplay systems.
Final Thoughts
There are many more video games that center environmental justice principles. Feel free to let us know which games we should add to this list in the comments below!
