In the world of video games, where tales of heroism and gripping narratives often dominate, there’s always a glimmer of humor—no matter how dire the setting. From unexpected punchlines and quirky cutscenes to whimsical Easter eggs, these comic moments provide a delightful contrast to the intensity of gameplay.
Even in the most serious genres, including gritty action and spine-chilling horror, comedic interludes often foster a connection to the human experience—or, at times, shatter our immersion in the storyline for the sake of laughter. Below, we explore ten of the most amusing moments from games that typically adopt a more somber tone.
10 Ellie’s Joke Book
The Last of Us Part 1
In a world devastated by a fungal outbreak and populated by nightmarish zombies, humor can be scarce. Yet, Ellie’s pun book in The Last of Us becomes a much-needed source of light. After tense or poignant moments, she often shares the most cringe-worthy one-liners with Joel, such as, “A moon rock tastes better than an earthly rock because it’s meat-eor.”
These silly jokes not only provide comic relief but also reflect the evolving bond between the two characters, proving that even in an apocalypse, laughter holds its value.
9 Mordin Solus Sings Gilbert & Sullivan
Mass Effect 2
Although Mass Effect 2 is replete with tension and critical choices, one of its standout comedic moments arises from Mordin Solus—a character far removed from typical humor. This verbal-flashpoint Salarian scientist surprises players with a rendition of “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General, ” creatively modified to reflect his expertise in biology and interstellar warfare.
The unexpected fusion of comedy with an otherwise intense narrative strikes the perfect balance, making this a memorable moment that resonates with players, especially as it foreshadows deeper emotional arcs in Mass Effect 3.
8 Hitler’s Bizarre Auditions
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus
In the bleak landscape of Wolfenstein II, a jarring moment breaks the tension when the protagonist, BJ Blazkowicz, finds himself on Venus auditioning for a Nazi propaganda film—with Adolf Hitler as the bizarre director. In a scene where Hitler displays erratic behavior, from ranting to sleepwalking, the absurdity amplifies the overall ridiculousness of the game’s dark humor.
Blazkowicz’s attempts to maintain his composure while facing such lunacy not only showcase character development but also provide a darkly comedic counterpoint to the game’s grim atmosphere.
7 Drunken Night at Kaer Morhen
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Even toughened witchers deserve a night off. Before a critical plot twist in The Witcher 3, Geralt, along with Eskel and Lambert, indulges in an evening filled with revelry. As the night unfolds, their plans spiral into chaos—dressing in Yennefer’s clothing and prank-calling a prominent figure become just a few highlights.
This comedic interlude serves as an endearing reminder of the necessity of levity, even amid serious quests and life-altering journeys.
6 Arthur and Lenny’s Drunken Bar Escapade
Red Dead Redemption 2
While Red Dead Redemption 2 evokes a somber narrative filled with emotional weight, Arthur and Lenny’s drunken escapade introduces an exhilarating break. What begins as a simple night out morphs into a hilarious blackout bender, complete with singing and captivating banter.
The highlight: Arthur’s amusing quest to find Lenny, calling his name to every patron he encounters and eventually hallucinating everyone morphing into Lenny’s likeness, exemplifying the chaotic misadventure. It’s one of the rare instances where Arthur can indulge in fun before the narrative takes a darker turn.
5 Sanguine’s Drinking Game
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The trend of serious characters facing drunken adventures continues in Skyrim. During the quest “A Night to Remember, ”players join the Dragonborn in a chaotic drinking game that leads to bizarre and unforeseen consequences: waking up with a goat and a hagraven engagement in their memory.
As players unravel the absurdity of the experience, it becomes clear that this wild journey is orchestrated by Sanguine, the Daedric Prince of Debauchery, making this quest not only hilariously memorable but also delightfully chaotic.
4 Cloud’s Dress-Up Infiltration
Final Fantasy VII
In a universe rife with existential angst, a particularly whimsical scene in Final Fantasy VII unfolds as Cloud dons a dress to infiltrate a crime boss’s mansion in search of Tifa. Players navigate the quirky task of gathering cosmetics and engaging in absurd mini-games, such as a squats contest with burly men.
The remake amplifies this bizarre experience, transforming it into a theatrical production replete with musical numbers and choreography—an unforgettable moment that has resonated with fans for years.
3 The Secret Cow Level
Diablo II
Dominated by dark themes of conflict and horror, Diablo II also introduces players to the wildly entertaining Secret Cow Level. Initially conceived as an internet joke, this hidden area bursts onto the scene with formidable enemies—armed, upright cows led by the infamous Cow King.
The absurdity of battling bovines in a realm of chaos has since become an enduring legend, inspiring recurring references in later iterations of the franchise.
2 Sergeant Johnson’s Secret Elite Hug
Halo: Combat Evolved
Halo: Combat Evolved is characterized by epic battles and dramatic stakes. However, successfully completing the game on Legendary difficulty rewards players with an unexpected comedic twist: Sergeant Johnson and a Covenant Elite share an uncharacteristic hug as disaster unfolds around them.
This absurd, heartfelt moment amidst impending doom showcases the franchise’s ability to delight players while subverting expectations in a hilariously unexpected way.
1 The Dog Ending
Silent Hill 2
In the haunting journey of Silent Hill 2, filled with themes of psychological horror and guilt, players encounter a comedic twist during the finale known as The Dog Ending. As James discovers the orchestrator behind the events—a Shiba Inu overseeing a control room—the absurdity peaks.
The humor culminates in a bizarre cutscene complete with comical music, leaving players grappling with the choice between laughter and disbelief as the credits roll in a dog-themed tribute. It’s a brilliant encapsulation of the unexpected levity that can arise from even the most intense video game narratives.
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