The concept of a story being merely a dream is a well-trodden narrative device across various storytelling platforms, including video games. This trope can sometimes lead to unsatisfactory conclusions, serving as an easy way to reset plots or dismiss the journey undertaken by characters. Many players have likely encountered narratives that fall flat due to this twist, prompting feelings of disappointment.
In the realm of gaming, while there are numerous straightforward “it was all a dream”scenarios, certain titles explore this theme with greater depth. Some games subtly hint at the dream aspect from the onset, while others manage to keep their emotional weight intact, regardless of the dream framework. Below, we examine notable examples where dreaming plays a pivotal role.
10 The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse
Quite The Dreamy Adventure
Mickey Mouse is known for his whimsical adventures, often venturing into bizarre dimensions—a consequence of his status as a beloved mascot. In The Magical Quest, Mickey embarks on a quest to retrieve his dog Pluto, only to find himself tumbling into a magical realm after falling off a cliff.
After a lively platforming journey to rescue Pluto from Emperor Pete, Mickey awakens in his bed, casually dismissing the entire escapade as just a dream. Such resilience is characteristic of Mickey’s carefree spirit.
9 Five Nights At Freddy’s 4
Nightmares Of Past Traumas
Unlike previous installments set in creepy pizzerias, Five Nights at Freddy’s 4 immerses players in the harrowing dreams of a young boy plagued by nightmarish animatronics within his own home. As the story unfolds, hidden mini-games and nuanced details reveal that he is enduring a dying nightmare tied to his traumatic past, specifically the infamous “Bite of ’83.”
The boy’s terror manifests through monstrous iterations of the animatronics he once feared, creating a haunting experience that resonates deeply with players’ own fears and memories.
8 The Legend Of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
All Dreams Must End Eventually
At the start of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, Link finds himself washed ashore on Koholint Island after a shipwreck. As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that the island and its colorful inhabitants are constructs of the Wind Fish’s dreams.
Upon awakening the Wind Fish, Link is faced with the disappearance of Koholint Island and its residents, leaving players to ponder the nature of reality within the game—whether it was the Wind Fish’s dream or Link’s own subconscious reflections.
7 Yakuza: Dead Souls
Retroactively Declared A Dream
In the timeline of the Yakuza/Like a Dragon franchise, Yakuza: Dead Souls stands out for its unconventional premise, featuring Kiryu and his allies defending Kamurocho from a zombie invasion. Initially a non-canon entry, this spin-off unexpectedly receives a humorous nod in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.
While reminiscing about his past, Kiryu reflects on a “dream”featuring zombies, thereby retrofitting Dead Souls into the series’ canon in a quirky manner that aligns with the franchise’s playful tone.
6 Prey (2017)
A Test Of Humanity
In Prey, players follow Morgan’s mission to eliminate the Typhon aboard Talos I, during which they encounter peculiar moments that challenge their understanding of morality and identity. Eventually, the twist reveals that players were never Morgan Yu, but a Typhon imbued with her memories and placed in a dreamlike simulation, orchestrated by the enigmatic Alex.
Player choices dictate whether this entity realizes its human potential or reverts to its predatory instincts, leading to dramatically different outcomes based on the player’s moral compass.
5 Rule Of Rose
Working Through Your Issues
Rule of Rose is steeped in a dreamlike atmosphere, intricately woven with fantasy and psychological elements. Throughout the game, Jennifer faces off against monstrous adversaries and bullies within a twisted childhood framework, revealing deeper themes related to trauma and memory.
Ultimately, Jennifer’s journey symbolizes her attempts to process her past experiences from childhood, offering a poignant commentary on trauma as she confronts the phantoms of her youth and seeks healing.
4 Super Mario Bros. 2
The Land Was Called “Subcon” After All
Distinct from its predecessor, Super Mario Bros. 2 transports players to Subcon, a whimsical land under threat from the villainous Wart. Unbeknownst to many, Subcon exists solely within the realm of dreams, culminating in Mario waking up in his bed after the adventure.
This raises questions about the connection between the dream world and the Mushroom Kingdom: How do the dream denizens like Shy Guys and Ninjis traverse into other realms? It’s a mystery that piques curiosity.
3 Eternal Sonata
On Chopin’s Deathbed
In Eternal Sonata, players experience a fantastical world imagined by the renowned composer Frederic Chopin during his final moments. The narrative intricately blurs the lines between dreams and reality, intensifying as the story progresses.
Chopin’s introspection leads to profound revelations about life and mortality, culminating in an unexpected confrontation with the characters from his dream. The outcome hinges on whether he is able to confront his fears or succumb to them, reinforcing the game’s exploration of existential themes.
2 Superliminal
A Dream Of A Dream
From the outset, Superliminal informs players that they are engaged in a dream, designed as a therapeutic exercise. However, as the narrative unfolds, the carefully planned therapy devolves into a perplexing experience, with the AI guiding player perspectives and forcing them to confront their limitations.
The revelation that the entire scenario was a constructed exercise highlights the game’s philosophical commentary on perception, urging players to redefine how they view challenges and obstacles.
1 American McGee’s Alice
It’s A Metaphor
In American McGee’s Alice, players follow Alice Liddell, who is trapped in a catatonic state within an asylum following a traumatic fire that claimed her family. Her descent into a distorted Wonderland symbolizes her inner struggle with insanity and loss.
Through navigating this surreal landscape, Alice confronts her fears and begins to reclaim her sanity. The victory over the Queen of Hearts signifies her acceptance of her past, allowing her to awaken and break free from her mental burdens.
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