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'Metro 2033'—launch trailerNot many games reach the mastery of those mentioned above. A post-apocalyptic world is often a great environment for a shooter—like Gears of War, Metro 2033, Resistance, Super Probotector/Contra III—all of which are decent to excellent. But it's often merely a bleak background to pepper bullets into. S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl is a glowing exception, embracing its surroundings and weaving (corrupted) life into them.The Metal Gear Solid series deals with the onset of an apocalyptic situation or military fascism, but it's also mostly a solo pursuit, with a few supporting characters. You rarely truly feel the entire world at large is in real danger, though philosophical musings keep us thinking. And then there is the horde of zombie-themed games. Pretty (gross) they may be, but very few of them focus on humanity's cooperation, essential in such stories. Those that do are outstanding video game examples of post-apocalyptic civilization: Left 4 Dead and The Walking Dead being two of those. The Last of Us is the acknowledged masterpiece in its post-apocalyptic glory, but will, crucially, be seen as a true core text because of its lead characters' emotional connection amid such ugliness, and its overall tragedy.It has always interested me how we turn to the bleak, dark, vicious, and blackly humorous so often in entertainment—aren't our lives troubling enough? But the greatest satisfaction is when the despair is offset by hope. Majora's Mask, with its numerous side quests steeped in love stories and honor, is relatable and makes the plight of Termina's people mean something. Half-Life 2, of course, will always have the classic "couple on the couch" moment. Though harrowing, it's a reminder of a blissful past or a promising future. It's in your hands.
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