Settings play a crucial role in video games, serving as the backdrop that shapes players’ experiences and immerses them in the narrative. Each game utilizes various visual and narrative styles, with steampunk standing out as a favorite among enthusiasts of the genre.
Known for its blend of retrofuturistic technology and the aesthetic roots of the Industrial Revolution, steampunk emphasizes the use of steam-powered machinery. This genre boasts a rich array of interpretations, from Victorian influences to American depictions, resulting in a diverse selection of titles. Below, I present my curated list of the ten best games set in steampunk environments.
10 SteamWorld Dig 2
Steam-Powered Metroidvania
As an ardent fan of metroidvania titles, SteamWorld Dig 2 holds a special place in my heart. While it may not rank among the absolute masterpieces of the genre, its engaging gameplay ensures countless hours of enjoyment.
This game shines in its imagination, which is evident in its mechanics, storyline, and particularly its striking aesthetic. The vibrant art style elevates the overall experience, making it visually captivating.
Set against a backdrop of mines and robots, the game is packed with traps and treasures, and it particularly appeals to those who have experienced the growth of the franchise since its inaugural title.
Overall, SteamWorld Dig 2 is a delightful metroidvania that I enthusiastically recommend for its combination of classic and contemporary gameplay elements.
9 Styx: Master of Shadows
Multi-Layered Stealth Fantasy
Though it may not be widely recognized, Styx: Master of Shadows is a hidden gem that deserves attention. With its diverse gameplay options and well-crafted level designs, I confidently assert its status as one of the best stealth titles available.
The unique blend of dark fantasy and steampunk elements sets it apart, offering an engaging mythology and a set of enjoyable skills like smoke bombs and invisibility that enhance the gameplay experience.
Although the game doesn’t delve deeply into its themes, the fusion of genres is compelling, making it worthy of recognition.
8 Amnesia: The Dark Descent
The Savior of Terror
Amnesia: The Dark Descent rejuvenated the horror genre when it was on the decline, leaving a lasting impact on both gamers and the indie scene. Developed by Frictional Games, it played a pivotal role in defining modern horror experiences.
The setting is the cornerstone of its success, showcasing a creative synergy between various influences and gameplay mechanics.
While I may not fully embrace horror, I hold great respect for the quality and influence of Amnesia: The Dark Descent.
7 Machinery
A Robotic Adventure
The charm of indie games often lies in their ability to reinterpret common themes with fresh creativity, evident in Machinarium.
This hand-drawn point-and-click adventure offers a whimsical yet faithful representation of steampunk through its captivating audiovisual style.
While it may not be my preferred genre, I was captivated by its narrative depth and engaging gameplay. If you have a few hours to spare and enjoy steampunk, Machinarium promises a delightful and entertaining experience.
6 Frostpunk
Heat Means Life
Despite my struggles with management games, Frostpunk caught me off guard. Once I grasped the aim of the game, everything fell into place. Crafted by the creators of This War of Mine, its intentions are to immerse players in the harsh realities of survival.
Set in a steampunk universe, the game encapsulates the connection between human resilience and the advancement of technology, offering a compact narrative rich in ludonarrative coherence.
The challenges it presents are intense, but it’s the emotional journey that draws me back to gaming: the vivid sensations that Frostpunk effectively delivers.
5 Final Fantasy 6
Retro Steampunk
Though I haven’t been an active player of Final Fantasy in years, Final Fantasy 6 remains a cherished classic. As my first encounter with the series, its enduring charm and style transcend the limitations of its era.
This title is notable for being one of only two entries from the ’90s on this list, underscoring its significance in gaming history. It explores critical themes such as exploitation and technology amid budding industrial advancements.
Final Fantasy 6 plays a pioneering role in the steampunk subgenre, showcasing a nuanced approach to its narrative and aesthetic.
4 Lies of P
The Greatest Souls-Like
In recent years, numerous studios have sought to replicate the Soulsborne formula, yet Lies of P has managed to accomplish it nearly flawlessly.
The high-quality level design and memorable boss encounters showcase NEOWIZ’s excellence, where the Victorian influences from Bloodborne mesh seamlessly with the game’s puppet-centric narrative.
By integrating 19th-century aesthetics with science fiction and fantasy, the game achieves a visual identity that oscillates between factories and grand castles without losing coherence.
Lies of P stands as a contender for the best Souls-Like experience I’ve encountered, with the impressive city of Krat playing a crucial role in that assessment.
3 Thief: The Dark Project
Stealth’s Turning Point
The inclusion of Thief: The Dark Project further cements my appreciation for stealth games, particularly as they lend themselves exceptionally well to steampunk aesthetics.
This iconic installment not only introduced a plethora of inventive gadgets but also provided an unforgettable experience navigating the complex social strata of a world propelled by technology and magic.
Taking on the persona of master thief Garrett makes the experiences even more engaging, showcasing the series’ ability to merge seemingly opposing concepts in a compelling way. The Dark Project represents the pinnacle of this creativity.
2 BioShock
An Influential Masterpiece
The BioShock series stands as a testament to the influence of steampunk principles, prominently featuring retrofuturistic aesthetics presented through an art déco lens.
As part of one of the most acclaimed trilogies, the original title has become legendary, leaving an indelible mark on both players and developers alike.
Rapture, the game’s setting, is iconic in its own right, showcasing a complex interplay of social and architectural elements that shape its unique identity.
Combined with a richly woven narrative and memorable characters, it delivers a masterful blend of action and horror, reinforcing BioShock’s status as a video game masterpiece.
1 Dishonored
The Glory of Whalepunk
Recognized as a Game of the Year, Dishonored has redefined my appreciation for gaming through its unique experiences.
By allowing player actions to drive the narrative of Dunwall, the game exemplifies the interactive nature of the medium.
With its adept integration of fashionable clothing, innovative technology, and striking architecture, Dishonored exemplifies the essence of the steampunk genre through an extraordinary interpretation.
In addition to being one of the best stealth games, its remarkable open linearity and mission design distinguish Dishonored as one of the most intriguing and evolving settings in recent gaming history.
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