It’s clear that the vast majority of popular video games set in America predominantly feature coastal areas, such as California, New York, and other iconic cities commonly seen in major blockbusters. However, this focus overlooks the diverse landscapes and rich cultures found in the heartland of America.
The United States is immense, and its cultural and geographical landscapes can be classified into five distinct regions: Northeast, Southwest, Southeast, West, and Midwest. Each state contributes its own unique identity, creating a rich tapestry of stories and cultural phenomena that vary significantly from one region to another.
Interestingly, while certain regions shine in video game settings, the American Midwest often remains underrepresented in this genre. Despite some charming activities such as hunting and fishing, there appear to be fewer games celebrating this region. However, as noted by writer Elena, the Midwest harbors more intrigue and charm than many might assume.
Though there are only a handful of games that take place extensively within the Midwest, we’ve compiled a list of notable titles that feature Midwestern states primarily. These games highlight the vast array of environments found in the Midwest as recognized by the Census Bureau: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
9 Portal 2
Somewhere in Upper Michigan
Although primarily set indoors, the finale of Portal 2 involves a dramatic escape from the Aperture Science facility. After defeating the antagonists, players see protagonist Chell evading capture.
In the original Portal, Chell loses consciousness near the Aperture Science parking lot after vanquishing GLaDOS. In the sequel, however, she makes her escape amidst a surreal soundtrack of choir-singing turrets, culminating in her emergence into a field of endless corn. This iconic Enrichment Center is, in fact, situated in Upper Michigan, a detail highlighted through a newspaper clipping found in-game.
8 Red Dead Redemption 2
Blackwater, Missouri
Set against the backdrop of a stylized late 19th and early 20th century America, Red Dead Redemption 2 features Blackwater, a crucial location steeped in history and danger for the Van der Linde gang, particularly after a disastrous bank heist.
This industrial hub, inspired by the real Missouri town, stands out as a significant point of conflict, bearing the consequences of Dutch’s failed plans. Players must navigate this perilous area carefully due to the high bounties placed on the gang members.
7 Resident Evil 2
Raccoon City, Missouri
Raccoon City, a fictional setting in the Resident Evil franchise, serves as the backdrop for numerous games, particularly known for the viral outbreak that irrevocably changed its fate. The city is depicted as a bustling industrial environment within Arklay County.
Fans often liken Raccoon City to real-life areas in Missouri, such as Springfield, particularly as it grapples with the aftermath of the Umbrella Corporation’s catastrophic decisions, ultimately culminating in the city’s complete destruction by government intervention.
6 Project Zomboid
Louisville, Kentucky
In the open-world survival game Project Zomboid, players find themselves in the quarantined, zombie-infested Knox County, Kentucky, where the focus is primarily on surviving against inevitable death. The game cleverly highlights a gritty Midwestern aesthetic through its urban and rural landscapes.
Set in a fictional version of the region, Project Zomboid captures the essence of small-town life while exploring the darker aspects of survival during a zombie apocalypse.
5 Robocop: Rogue City
Detroit, Michigan
The city of Detroit, often viewed through a lens of crime and poverty, is the setting for the iconic franchise Robocop and its recent video game adaptation, Robocop: Rogue City.
This action-packed game invites players to step into the shoes of a iconic cyborg law enforcer while navigating the streets of a gritty, futuristic Detroit, designed to evoke a sense of both nostalgia and challenge.
4 Deus Ex: Human Revolution
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit serves as a central location in Deus Ex: Human Revolution, showcasing a dystopian future where economic disparities and class divides take center stage. The city’s depiction enhances the narrative’s themes, portraying a society grappling with ethical dilemmas surrounding technology and power.
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