The Victorian era, spanning from 1837 to 1901, was a time of great innovation, social change, and cultural richness. This period in history has fascinated storytellers, game developers, and gamers alike. Many video games have ventured into the Victorian era, offering players the opportunity to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 19th century. In this article, we’ll explore 16 games that transport players to the world of corsets, steam engines, and gaslit streets.
1. Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (2015)
Set in Victorian London, “Assassin’s Creed Syndicate” lets players explore the bustling city while taking on the roles of twin assassins, Jacob and Evie Frye. The game captures the spirit of the era, from its architecture to the Industrial Revolution’s impact on society.
2. BioShock Infinite (2013)
While not set in historical Victorian London, “BioShock Infinite” takes players to the flying city of Columbia, which is heavily influenced by the Victorian era’s aesthetics and social dynamics. The game combines historical elements with a unique and fantastical narrative.
3. The Order: 1886 (2015)
“The Order: 1886” is a cinematic action-adventure game that offers an alternate history where an ancient order of knights battles supernatural threats in Victorian-era London. The game’s stunning visuals and steampunk-inspired technology create a visually captivating experience.
4. Thief (2014)
In “Thief,” players step into the shoes of Garrett, a master thief navigating a steampunk-inspired, Victorian-era city filled with secrets and treacherous missions. The game’s emphasis on stealth and exploration immerses players in a dark and atmospheric world.
5. Bloodborne (2015)
While not explicitly set in the Victorian era, “Bloodborne” draws heavy inspiration from the era’s gothic and Lovecraftian aesthetics. Players explore the city of Yharnam, facing grotesque creatures and uncovering a deep and dark lore.
6. Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments (2014)
As the famous detective Sherlock Holmes, players investigate a series of crimes in 19th-century London. The game captures the essence of Victorian detective work, offering a rich narrative and challenging puzzles.
7. Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs (2013)
This psychological horror game transports players to a nightmarish version of Victorian London. The game’s eerie atmosphere and storytelling create a haunting experience.
8. L.A. Noire (2011)
While not set in London, “L.A. Noire” is a detective game that takes place in post-World War II Los Angeles. It captures the film noir style of storytelling and investigative work, reminiscent of classic detective novels and films from the Victorian era.
9. Sunless Sea (2015)
“Sunless Sea” offers a unique narrative-driven experience set in a dark and mysterious underground sea filled with Lovecraftian horrors. Players navigate their ship through the eerie waters while making choices that impact the story.
10. Vampyr (2018)
“Vampyr” takes players to early 20th-century London during the aftermath of World War I. As a vampire doctor, players must balance their thirst for blood with their moral choices while navigating the city’s dark and atmospheric streets.
11. The Council (2018)
“The Council” is an episodic narrative adventure that combines elements of the supernatural with historical figures from the late 18th century. Players engage in political intrigue and solve mysteries while interacting with characters like George Washington and Napoleon Bonaparte.
12. Fallout 4: Far Harbor (DLC) (2016)
The “Far Harbor” DLC for “Fallout 4” introduces players to the foggy and eerie island of Far Harbor, which features elements reminiscent of Victorian-era horror stories. The DLC offers a dark and atmospheric experience within the larger post-apocalyptic world of Fallout.
13. Dishonored (2012)
“Dishonored” is a steampunk-inspired stealth-action game set in a fictional city with strong Victorian aesthetics. Players control Corvo Attano, a former bodyguard framed for murder, as he seeks revenge in a world filled with political intrigue and supernatural elements.
14. Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem (2002)
Though not set in the Victorian era, “Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem” features a narrative that spans various historical periods, including the Victorian era. The game explores themes of psychological horror and Lovecraftian dread.
15. The Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing (2013)
This action RPG takes place in a steampunk-influenced world inspired by Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.” Players control Van Helsing, the famous vampire hunter, as he battles supernatural creatures in a dark, gothic setting.
16. Penny Dreadful: Demimonde (2017)
Based on the TV series “Penny Dreadful,” this mobile game immerses players in the show’s gothic Victorian London. It features an original storyline and allows players to interact with iconic characters from the series.
The Victorian era has long been a source of fascination, blending a unique combination of societal change, scientific advancement, and gothic romance. These 16 games transport players to this remarkable time period, offering diverse experiences from detective work and horror to action and historical exploration. Whether you’re intrigued by the mysteries of the era or captivated by its dark and atmospheric aesthetics, these games provide a captivating journey into the past.
