Top 10 Video Game Depictions of London You Must Play
London, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, has always been a fascinating setting for video games. Whether you’re exploring historical landmarks or navigating the bustling streets, these games offer a unique virtual journey through the heart of the UK. Here are the top 10 video game depictions of London that you must play.
1. Watch Dogs: Legion
The latest installment in the Watch Dogs series sets you free in a meticulously recreated futuristic London. From hacking surveillance drones to organizing resistance movements, Watch Dogs: Legion offers an immersive and expansive sandbox. The game’s open-world environment captures the essence of London’s diverse neighborhoods, iconic structures, and historical landmarks.
Key Features:
- Superb open-world design.
- Innovative play as anyone mechanic.
- Detailed depiction of London’s landmarks.
For more on Watch Dogs: Legion, you can visit its official site.
2. Assassin’s Creed Syndicate
Step back into the 19th century with Assassin’s Creed Syndicate. This entry in the series delivers an atmospheric portrayal of Victorian London during the Industrial Revolution. Players will traverse iconic sites like the Tower of London and Big Ben, engaging in classic assassin activities.
Key Features:
- Historical accuracy combined with engaging gameplay.
- Rich storyline set during a transformative era in London.
- Unique characters and an intricate plot.
Learn more about Assassin’s Creed Syndicate on their official page.
3. The Getaway
Offering a grittier look at London’s underworld, The Getaway provides an action-packed crime story. The game focuses on two characters entwined in a mob war, navigating a highly detailed and true-to-life version of London.
Key Features:
- Cinematic storytelling and realistic graphics.
- Authentic and detailed London streets.
- Engaging crime narrative.
4. ZombiU
Survival horror meets the streets of London in ZombiU. This game places you in a post-apocalyptic version of the city, filled with zombies and eerie landscapes. Key locations like Buckingham Palace create a haunting backdrop.
Key Features:
- Terrifying atmosphere and challenging gameplay.
- Memorable landmarks turned into survival arenas.
- Permadeath mechanics adding to the tension.
5. The Order: 1886
Set in an alternate history, The Order: 1886 melds Victorian London with steampunk elements. The detailed environment and rich narrative provide an unforgettable experience of the city’s dark and mystical side.
Key Features:
- Innovative blend of history and fantasy.
- High-quality graphics and artwork.
- Strong narrative with engaging characters.
For an in-depth review, visit this Metacritic link.
6. Nightmare Creatures
Explore a horror-infused version of 19th century London with Nightmare Creatures. The game blends Gothic horror elements with fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, making the city’s foggy streets even more terrifying.
Key Features:
- Gothic horror atmosphere.
- Intense combat and diverse enemies.
- Unique art style and level design.
7. Tomb Raider III
In Tomb Raider III, Lara Croft ventures into London for part of her quest. The game’s version of London includes famous sites and demonstrates the franchise’s knack for incorporating varied settings worldwide.
Key Features:
- Diverse setting incorporating major London landmarks.
- Classic Tomb Raider gameplay.
- Puzzles and exploration-focused levels.
8. Batman: Arkham Knight
While the game primarily takes place in Gotham, Batman: Arkham Knight includes elements inspired by London, especially in the architecture and design of certain locations. The resemblance adds an interesting layer to the dark, brooding atmosphere of the game.
Key Features:
- Rich and detailed open-world design.
- Engaging combat system.
- Complex narrative with depth.
For a closer look, see Rocksteady Studios’ official game page.
9. James Bond 007: Blood Stone
Live the life of Britain’s most famous spy in James Bond 007: Blood Stone. The game features various locations around the world, including London, where players can engage in high-octane spy action against a stylish city backdrop.
Key Features:
- Exciting spy-themed gameplay.
- Stunning graphics and fluid combat.
- A faithful representation of London’s sleek modern appeal.
10. The Saboteur
Finally, The Saboteur offers an experience set across different European landscapes, including crucial missions in London. The game is set during World War II and features a striking black-and-white aesthetic that becomes colorful as areas are liberated.
Key Features:
- Unique artistic design with a striking color transition mechanic.
- Engaging World War II espionage storyline.
- Detailed urban environments including parts of London.
For a complete overview, check out the game’s official page.
Conclusion
These top 10 depictions of London in video games offer a rich variety of genres, timelines, and storylines. Whether you are delving into history with Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, surviving a zombie apocalypse in ZombiU, or navigating the city’s future in Watch Dogs: Legion, these games provide an unforgettable virtual tour of one of the world’s most iconic cities.