Celebrating the essence of fatherhood goes beyond just acknowledging it on Father’s Day; it’s about recognizing the impactful role that father figures play, particularly in video games. The term “‘dadcore’”refers to those games where the fatherhood experience is central to the plot or gameplay mechanics, offering players a unique perspective on paternal relationships.
Since the release of iconic titles like Pac-Man forty years ago, the gaming landscape has evolved tremendously. As game developers and players evolve into parenthood, the narratives in gaming increasingly mirror those life experiences. If one considers video games as a form of art, it becomes apparent that the stories we engage with should resonate with fundamental human experiences.
We’ve identified some of the most engaging dadcore games across various genres. Whether you’re seeking to explore the nuances of fatherhood, are a dad hoping to see a reflection of yourself in gaming, or are searching for titles your father might enjoy, these standout entries in the dad genre are truly worth exploring!
Warning: Light spoilers ahead!
9.The Sims 4
You Can Be Any Dad You Want
While the entire Sims franchise offers parental simulation, The Sims 4 stands out with its modern features. The real charm of the game lies in its diverse mods and user-generated content available primarily on PC.
You’re free to create unique simulations, whether that’s transforming beloved characters from another game into parents or crafting your own stories. Want to simulate a world where Sora and Kairi from Kingdom Hearts are parents? The possibilities are endless.
Much like an expansive dollhouse, you can embrace numerous fatherhood scenarios: whether it’s managing a household of seven toddlers solo or undertaking the Legacy Challenge across ten generations, the choices are yours to make. While direct life lessons and mentorship toward your digital kids aren’t strictly enforced, the storytelling is entirely in the hands of the player.
8.Octodad: Dadliest Catch
A Decoy Octopus of a Father
As one of the more whimsical entries in this list, Octodad: Dadliest Catch invites players into the hilarious life of a father who masquerades as a human while secretly being an octopus. The humor unfolds as you navigate the absurdities of everyday life while maintaining this facade.
Engaging in mundane activities like grilling burgers or taking the kids to the aquarium becomes a comedic challenge, highlighting the lighter side of fatherhood. The game culminates in a heartwarming moment where a long-held secret is revealed, ensuring that the narrative remains lighthearted compared to others in this list.
7.Yakuza 3
A Dad’s Orphanage
In the universe of the Yakuza series, Kiryu’s journey is marked by his deep commitment to his adopted daughter, Haruka.Yakuza 3 captures Kiryu at his most paternal as he tends to the needs of children at an orphanage he founded, seeking to provide them with a stable life.
While he navigates a series of challenges involving the Tojo Clan, the bonds formed with the children are central to the narrative. The heartfelt interactions and life lessons imparted by Kiryu add emotional depth, making his character’s sacrifices throughout the series all the more poignant.
6.God of War (2018)
A Father and Son Adventure
Following the passing of his wife, Kratos and his son, Atreus, embark on a heartfelt quest to fulfill her last wish. Their journey leads them across the realms, where they confront hidden truths about each other and their complex relationship.
Kratos embodies the no-nonsense dad archetype, with relatable grumpiness as he strives to teach Atreus. As players progress, the evolution of their bond becomes evident, marking an emotional resonance that continues through the subsequent chapters of the saga.
5.Resident Evil Village
A Dad’s Worst Nightmare
In Resident Evil Village, Ethan Winters embodies the average dad thrown into extraordinary circumstances. The game kicks off with Chris Redfield’s shocking actions that lead to a gruesome quest to find his kidnapped daughter, Rose.
Ethan’s harrowing journey through a village populated by terrifying creatures showcases the lengths a father will go to protect his child. The emotional stakes are amplified in the DLC, which provides touching moments that highlight Ethan’s dedication as a father amidst chaos.
4.The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
A Father’s Race Against The Wild Hunt
The Wild Hunt is on the chase for Ciri, Geralt’s adopted daughter, prompting a desperate and action-packed search across the continent. Throughout this journey, players experience the highs and lows of Geralt’s protective instincts, emphasizing the emotional narrative within this vast open world.
One poignant scene, a playful snowball fight between Geralt and Ciri, encapsulates the father-daughter bond amidst tumult. The journey culminates in an emotional conclusion, marking the transition of Ciri into her own legacy.
3.Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
A Dad’s Healing Journey
In the sequel to Death Stranding, Sam Porter Bridges faces fresh challenges while navigating themes of loss and connection. After a tough journey of isolation during the first game, players witness a more fulfilled Sam happily united with a supportive Bridge Baby.
However, tragedy soon knocks again, prompting Sam’s need to forge new connections while grieving yet another loss. Enhanced gameplay features and a more supportive narrative structure provide depth, showcasing fatherhood’s multifaceted nature while revealing profound truths about existence.
2.The Walking Dead: Season 1
A Fatherly Journey Through The Zombie Apocalypse
This emotional narrative begins with Lee Everett, a convicted professor who unexpectedly becomes a guardian to Clementine, a young girl abandoned in a chaotic world. As players navigate the apocalypse, the bond between Lee and Clementine grows deeper, making the impactful choices even more critical to their survival.
Player choices directly influence the story and reveal how Lee’s protective instincts shape his relationship with Clementine, ultimately leading to gut-wrenching moments that challenge perceptions of fatherhood and sacrifice.
1.The Last Of Us Part 1
A Dad’s Choice for Humanity
No discussion of dadcore games is complete without The Last of Us. This masterpiece interweaves various father-child dynamics, exemplified in the unforgettable journey of Joel and Ellie. After suffering the loss of his own daughter, Joel confronts his fears and responsibilities as he protects Ellie, the key to a potential cure for humanity.
As players guide Joel through harrowing choices and brutal landscapes, they are faced with a heart-wrenching decision that encapsulates the ultimate sacrifice a parent could make. The emotional depth and moral dilemmas presented in this game solidify its legacy in storytelling and will forever resonate within the gaming community.
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