GAMING WITHOUT GORE: 6 NON-VIOLENT GAMES FOR ADULTS

Ratchet & Clank (2016)

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because this game is a new-and-improved version of the 2002 original, and a feature film was released earlier this year. This sci-fi game has it all: challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics and creepy villains. While some of the imagery—like the monstrous, grimacing frog-like creatures that ooze when defeated—might be gross or scary for any young kids watching you play, it’s far enough removed from reality to make it a nice middle-ground for those who don’t like bloody games.

Bastion (2011)

Set in a floating fantasy realm, Bastion is a fun action-adventure game. The graphics are an interesting marriage between crystal-clear detail and a retro vibe, but there is no blood or gore to be found. Your mythical foes disappear in a flash once you’ve defeated them. Your character wields a hammer, among other tools and weapons, and you can crash through just about anything in your way (and even through objects that aren’t in your way at all, if you just love smashing things). The narration of this game is probably what makes it most memorable. If you’ve ever wanted a James Earl Jones-esque voice narrating your every move, you’ll adore Bastion.

Goldeneye 007 Reloaded (2010)

This first-person shooter game has highly detailed settings and graphics that will make you feel totally immersed in the game. But for those of us who are a little too squeamish to make it as a real-life secret agent, this game is perfect thanks to its lack of blood and gore. You’ll know you got the bad guy thanks to sounds effects—victims usually give a groan as they fall to the floor, and typically disappear altogether within a few seconds. Thankfully, James Bond (that’s you!) is a very “clean” agent, and miraculously, there’s virtually no blood to get all over your dapper suit!

History Civil War: Secret Missions (2008)

Created by the History Channel, this first-person shooter game brings the Civil War to life. But although the game focuses on historical accuracy, the blood and gore of war is not part of this virtual experience. You’ll have a few 19th-century rifles at your disposal, which adds a unique element to this game. And the settings are also refreshing, since you will be conducting your missions primarily in the wilderness of the Eastern U.S.

Mirror’s Edge (2008)

This first-person action game is sure to get your heart pumping as you race through the cityscape of a dystopian society. The characters are extremely lifelike, and you will have to fight your way past guards by any means necessary. Firing a gun is optional in this game, and if you do use it, there will be some blood but nothing over-the-top or gory. Your goal is to make it to various locations in the city undetected by the establishment, and you’ll have to perform various feats of parkour to do so. Mirror’s Edge is a great game to play if you like fast-paced adventure and are looking for something a little different than military shooter games.

Portal 1 & 2 (2007 & 2011)

This series challenges your problem-solving abilities. You have to work your way through different rooms, each of which offers a new, unique puzzle to solve. Thanks to your portal-generator, you have a unique advantage. But how can you best use the portals to access the tools you need? It’s not always as easy as going from Point A to Point B. It’s the perfect game if you want to test yourself with something a little different. There are no villains waiting for you around the corner, but rather a new conundrum for you to figure out. You’ll be quite proud of yourself for getting through this game with as little help as possible!