Playing as a monster in video games offers a uniquely thrilling experience—whether you’re wreaking havoc or battling against humanity. While most games cast monsters as enemies, a select few allow players to embody these terrifying creatures themselves, providing an adrenaline rush and a chance to explore the darker side of gameplay. For those interested in stepping into the claws, fangs, or tentacles of a monstrous being, this list highlights some of the best titles that let you do just that. From classic horror-inspired titles to modern multiplayer thrillers, there’s an exciting array of games where the role of the beast is entirely in your hands.
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15 The Fabulous Fear Machine
At some point, many of us dream of having the power to make our deepest wishes come true instantly. In The Fabulous Fear Machine, that fantasy becomes twisted reality. This game revolves around a coin-operated fortune-teller named Kirlian, who controls the most potent device in the world—the eponymous Fear Machine. Players make wishes, but instead of happiness, they unleash fear, paranoia, and chaos across the globe. The game explores the idea of wielding monstrous influence not just as a creature, but as a manipulator capable of sowing discord and despair. You embody a villainous force that encourages the growth of more monsters within the collective psyche, making it a darkly fascinating experience.
14 Lisa: The Painful
Set in a bleak post-apocalyptic world, Lisa: The Painful depicts a universe where humanity is on the brink of extinction, with the remaining survivors being all male. The story revolves around Brad, a hardened survivor who discovers a baby girl and raises her as his own. His internal struggles are heightened by substance abuse and coping mechanisms like the drug Joy. When the girl, Buddy, is kidnapped, Brad embarks on a ruthless quest filled with destruction, showing no regard for the lives he tramples along the way. The game challenges players to confront the monstrous side of human nature, as Brad’s actions embody the darker impulses that lurk beneath the surface of survival.
13 The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
Inspired by the iconic 1970s horror film, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre game offers a terrifying multiplayer experience that plunges players into the brutal world of the cannibalistic Sawyer family. In this asymmetrical multiplayer, one player assumes the role of a survivor attempting to escape, while others take on the role of the monstrous family members tasked with hunting them down. The game emphasizes stealth, trap-setting, and relentless pursuit, capturing the raw horror and tension of the movie. As a player controlling the killers, you experience the chilling thrill of hunting others, while as a survivor, the adrenaline of evading a relentless predator is unbeatable.
12 Pumpkin Jack
In Pumpkin Jack, you take on the role of the Pumpkin Lord, a villain determined to bring chaos to a peaceful land. The game flips traditional hero narratives by placing you as the antagonist, tasked with destroying everything good. Armed with powers and weapons, Jack sets out to spread evil and darkness, confronting the forces of good led by a heroic wizard. The game combines platforming, combat, and exploration, allowing you to smash through obstacles and enemies without mercy. Playing as Jack offers a mischievous joy, letting you indulge in villainous deeds and revel in the destruction of a bright, cheerful world.
11 The Suffering
The Suffering immerses players in a dark, gritty horror universe where you control Torque, a condemned man with a violent past. Not only does Torque need to escape the haunted Abbot State Penitentiary, but he also has the ability to transform into a hulking, monstrous form. This transformation is fueled by an insanity meter, which, when filled, allows Torque to unleash destruction on the prison’s inhabitants. The game’s mechanics of swapping between human and beast modes add a layer of depth to the horror experience, emphasizing chaos and power. This ability to embody a terrifying monster makes The Suffering a standout in horror gaming.
10 Werewolf: The Apocalypse – Earthblood
Set in the dark, supernatural universe of the World of Darkness, Werewolf: The Apocalypse – Earthblood lets players step into the claws of Cahal, a werewolf torn between his human and beastly sides. The game features exploration, stealth, and combat, with the option to shift into three different forms—each offering unique abilities. The most thrilling is the full-fledged werewolf, which allows you to rampage through enemies with destructive powers. While the gameplay can be somewhat standard, the opportunity to play as a mythic creature with unlockable abilities makes this game a satisfying experience for monster enthusiasts.
9 Dead By Daylight
Among the most popular multiplayer horror games, Dead By Daylight provides a unique twist: players can take on the role of either the terrifying killer or the desperate survivor. For those who love the thrill of hunting, playing as the monster is an adrenaline-pumping experience, with the killer pursuing victims through dark environments, setting traps, and using supernatural powers. Conversely, survivors must work together to escape or sabotage the killer’s efforts. The game’s tense atmosphere and dynamic gameplay make it a compelling choice for anyone wanting to embody the role of a monstrous entity, especially when evading friends in a game of hide-and-seek turned deadly.
8 Vampyr
Vampyr immerses players in the moral dilemmas of a newly turned vampire, Dr. Jonathan Reid. From the start, the game positions you as a creature of the night, capable of feeding on innocent civilians to survive. The choices you make influence whether you become a benevolent or a ruthless monster. You can eliminate key characters or spare them, affecting the game’s narrative and your reputation. The freedom to decide your level of monstrosity adds depth and replayability. Playing as a vampire allows you to explore the darker, more sophisticated aspects of monsterhood, blending supernatural powers with complex moral questions.
7 Lucius
Lucius is a puzzle horror game that deliberately pushes players into the role of a diabolically evil child—Lucius, the spawn of Satan. The game revolves around planning and executing murders within the household, with each action requiring careful timing and stealth to avoid detection. The game’s premise is darkly humorous and deeply unsettling, as you navigate the sinister mind of a young villain bent on chaos. The emphasis on strategic planning over fast-paced action makes Lucius a compelling experience for those interested in embodying pure evil and watching the consequences unfold.
6 Aliens Vs Predator
Though initially released on platforms like Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, Aliens Vs Predator remains a classic that captures the essence of playing as some of the universe’s most terrifying creatures. The game features three distinct campaigns, allowing players to switch between the roles of an Alien, a Marine, and a Predator. Each character offers a different gameplay style, from the feral hunting of aliens to the stealth and brutality of the Predator. Playing as these iconic monsters provides a visceral experience, whether you’re stalking prey in the darkness or defending yourself against human threats.
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Exploring these titles reveals the diverse ways game developers let players embody monsters, offering both terrifying and empowering experiences. Whether you prefer to be the hunter or the hunted, these games deliver the thrill of stepping into the shoes of some of the most fearsome creatures in gaming history. For aspiring game developers interested in creating their own monstrous characters, understanding the basics of game design is essential. You can learn about the starting line where to start in game dev by visiting this resource. Furthermore, embracing diversity in game characters enriches storytelling—check out this article to see what a modern game developer’s journey looks like. For those interested in sharing their experiences and building a community, mastering content creation how to make a successful game dev blog can be invaluable; more details are available here.