It’s intriguing to observe that, in both literature and interactive media, military forces frequently emerge as antagonists. Such portrayals diverge from their core purpose of safeguarding national interests, instead depicting them as corrupt, inept, or outright malicious, creating chaos for others.
The compelling nature of a formidable military as a foe stems from its extensive resources and structured hierarchy, often shrouded in ambiguity. This complexity can pose a significant challenge for protagonists seeking to confront or dismantle these powerful entities.
Even when militaries do not occupy the primary villain role, they typically play a critical part in triggering catastrophic events. This is evident across various gaming genres, where military engagements instigate crucial plot developments.
For our exploration, it’s essential that protagonists are either affiliated with the military or citizens of a nation under military influence, while random assaults from enemy forces are not sufficient for inclusion. Spoilers for some games are ahead.
9 Dead Rising
Before the chaos in Dead Rising, a covert government initiative aimed at resolving food shortages in Santa Cabeza, a Central American town, utilized a military-operated lab to develop a new means of meat production. Unfortunately, a lab-created wasp inadvertently unleashed the first zombie outbreak by infecting a local resident.
In an attempt to cover up this disaster, U. S.Special Forces executed a brutal response, eliminating everyone in Santa Cabeza, with the sole survivors being key researchers and a few locals. The commander, Brock Mason, later returns to manage the zombie crisis in Willamette, expressing regret solely for allowing two individuals to escape.
8 Beyond Good & Evil
Alpha Section Is Totally Legit
In the universe of Beyond Good & Evil, Hillys is home to two opposing military factions. While the Hillyan Army provides public security, the insidious Alpha Section sires their authority through martial law following attacks from the DomZ.
This mercenary group manipulates public perception, claiming to protect Hillys while secretly colluding with the DomZ for mutual benefit. Their deception is uncovered when protagonist Jade reveals the truth, prompting a revolt against their oppressive regime.
7 Beyond: Two Souls
Militarize The Afterlife, Great Idea
Beyond: Two Souls presents a cautionary tale of a military’s hubris in attempting to control the supernatural. Funded by the U. S.military, researchers delve into the Infraworld, the realm of the afterlife, led by Nathan, whose personal motives clash with General McGrath’s weaponizing ambitions.
As the research spirals out of control, the consequences become catastrophic. McGrath’s militaristic drive to exploit the Infraworld leads to disastrous results, showcasing the pitfalls of merging military objectives with profound existential questions.
6 Fallout
Which Military? Throw A Dart
In the Fallout series, military misdeeds highlight the consequences of power misuse. The Enclave and Brotherhood of Steel exemplify how remnants of old-world military technology can be distorted for nefarious purposes. The shadow of the military’s past looms over the wasteland, having initiated the conflict that resulted in nuclear devastation.
While the precise military responsible for the apocalypse is left ambiguous, the Fallout universe underscores a grim narrative: regardless of which faction launched the weapons, all militaries share culpability in the fallout from their actions.
5 Prototype
Make A Mess, Clean A Mess
In Prototype, the protagonist Alex Mercer embodies the chaos of military experimentation. Blackwatch, a secretive military group, is embroiled in creating bioweapons and inadvertently spawns Mercer’s calamity. Their attempts to contain the outbreak lead to further destruction, showcasing the thin line between heroism and villainy.
Despite their role as the antagonist, Mercer presents a flawed reflection of Blackwatch’s past decisions, making it clear that neither side can be labeled purely good or evil in this tangled web of military ethics.
4 Tales of Vesperia
Good Intentions, Bad Execution
In the realm of Tales of Vesperia, the military’s corruption is personified by Alexei Dinoia, who manipulates the Royal Guard for personal gain. His initially noble intentions deteriorate into conspiracy and betrayal as he poses a significant threat to the stability of the Empire.
His quest to control the ancient weapon Zaude ends in disaster, showing how good intentions can lead to catastrophic outcomes when authority is abused. Alexei’s story serves as a cautionary tale of power gone awry.
3 Metal Gear Solid 3
Boss Had To Take One For The Team
Metal Gear Solid 3 reveals the darker side of military tactics through The Boss’s complex narrative. Initially viewed as a traitor, her actions are revealed to be part of a grand design by U. S.authorities, showcasing how military agendas can create scapegoats for political gain.
The manipulation of events by those in power, including The Boss’s self-sacrifice, underscores the ethical ambiguity inherent within military operations, encapsulating the devastating costs of war.
2 Spec Ops: The Line
They Could’ve Sent Help
Spec Ops: The Line highlights the tragic consequences of military mismanagement through its harrowing story. Captain Walker’s team ventures to Dubai to locate survivors but is met with the fallout of previous military actions, revealing how neglect can have alarming repercussions.
The narrative emphasizes the failures of leadership and accountability, posing provocative questions about military intervention and the ramifications of neglecting humanitarian responsibilities.
1 Sonic Adventure 2
Never Shoot Shadow’s Sister
The military’s blunder in Sonic Adventure 2 has become meme-worthy, illustrating the unexpected consequences of military interventions. Dr. Gerald Robotnik’s research aboard the Space Colony ARK was tragically interrupted by G. U.N.’s military raid, ending in devastating loss and sparking revenge through the creation of Shadow the Hedgehog.
Driven by the tragic events, Shadow’s story encapsulates how military actions can ripple through time, affecting both individuals and entire narratives. This game serves as a reminder of the profound impact military decisions can have on personal and universal scales.
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