Werewolves have captivated our imaginations for centuries, embodying a primal blend of human intellect and animalistic fury. Whether playing with friends or on your own, their presence in video games offers players a chance to experience this duality first-hand, diving into the horror, power, and thrill of the transformation. Here, we explore some of the best werewolf video games that have made a significant mark on the gaming world. These games not only provide an adrenaline-pumping experience but also weave rich narratives that resonate with fans of the supernatural and horror genres.
1. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Bethesda’s The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a masterpiece in open-world RPG gaming, offering players endless exploration and adventure. Among its many features, the ability to become a werewolf stands out. Through the Companions questline, players can contract lycanthropy, transforming into a powerful beast. As a werewolf, you gain enhanced speed, strength, and ferocity, allowing you to tear through enemies with ease. Skyrim’s rich lore and immersive world make the werewolf transformation a deeply engaging experience, blending the thrill of the hunt with the strategic elements of survival.
2. Bloodborne
FromSoftware’s Bloodborne is renowned for its gothic horror atmosphere and challenging gameplay. Set in the cursed city of Yharnam, the game features numerous enemies and bosses inspired by werewolf mythology. While players don’t transform into werewolves themselves, they face off against beastly foes that embody the terror and brutality of lycanthropy. The game’s atmosphere, combat mechanics, and intricate storytelling create a deeply immersive experience, making it a must-play for werewolf enthusiasts and fans of horror video games.
3. The Wolf Among Us
Telltale Games’ The Wolf Among Us is a narrative-driven adventure game based on the Fables comic book series. Players assume the role of Bigby Wolf, the sheriff of Fabletown, who is also the Big Bad Wolf. This game masterfully combines detective noir elements with fairy tale lore, and Bigby’s ability to transform into a powerful wolf adds a thrilling dimension to the gameplay. The story-driven nature and the choices players make significantly impact the narrative, ensuring a personalized experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
4. Werewolf: The Apocalypse – Earthblood
Developed by Cyanide Studio, Werewolf: The Apocalypse – Earthblood is a unique action RPG set in the World of Darkness universe. Players control Cahal, an eco-terrorist werewolf on a mission to protect Gaia, the Earth’s life force. The game features three forms for Cahal: human, wolf, and Crinos (a werewolf form). Each form offers distinct abilities and gameplay mechanics, allowing players to switch between stealth, exploration, and brutal combat. The game’s environmental themes and deep lore make it a standout title in the genre of werewolf video games.
5. The Order: 1886
Set in an alternate history London, The Order: 1886 by Ready at Dawn is a cinematic third-person action-adventure game. Players join an ancient order of knights tasked with fighting supernatural threats, including werewolves. The game’s richly detailed world, historical settings, and intense combat sequences against lycanthropic enemies provide a gripping experience. While the game received mixed reviews for its linearity, its atmospheric storytelling and visual fidelity make it worth exploring for fans of werewolf lore and supernatural video games.
6. Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Mirror of Fate
Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Mirror of Fate by MercurySteam is a part of the long-running Castlevania series. This action-adventure game features Trevor Belmont, who faces off against various supernatural creatures, including werewolves. The game blends platforming, puzzle-solving, and combat, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh take on the classic Castlevania formula. Its dark gothic aesthetic and challenging gameplay offer a satisfying experience for those who relish battling the forces of darkness.
Writers Pick: Bloodborne
Despite playing Skyrim for an ungodly number of hours, something I’m sure many of you can relate to. I’ve got to go with Bloodbourne here. Despite it not being my first entry into the now hugely popular souls type games, the original Dark Souls being my first excursion into some of the best 3rd person games that have ever been made (the satisfaction of beating a game so reliant on player ability will always be worth the struggle!). Bloodborne was, and is still, a superb addition to the genre. If you like a challenge, then you’ve got to give this one a try.
Conclusion
The allure of werewolves in video games lies in their ability to let players unleash their inner beast, balancing human intellect with primal savagery. Whether through immersive open-world exploration, narrative-driven adventures, or intense combat encounters, these games provide diverse and intense experiences that are sure to cater to fans of the supernatural and horror genres.
For listeners of the female-led audio thriller Tales from Davidstown, delving into these werewolf video games can offer a complementary thrill, deepening your appreciation for the macabre and the supernatural. As you listen to the chilling audio thriller of Tales from Davidstown, consider diving into these games to embrace the visceral power and mystery of werewolves first-hand.
If gaming isn’t your thing, but you still love a scary night in with friends or loved ones, then take a look at our list of the best werewolf movies. We’re certain you’ll find something spinetingling to have you jumping behind the sofa!
