Level Up Your Gaming: Explore Unique Game Genres You Didn't Know About

Games come in all shapes and sizes. You might know the classics like shooting aliens or building kingdoms. But for the seasoned gamer yearning to push boundaries and discover fresh experiences, a hidden realm awaits. Here, beyond the familiar territories of Role-Playing Games (RPGs) and first-person shooters, lie niche genres – unconventional gems that defy expectations and challenge our perceptions of what a game can be.

Games Exploring the Unexpected

For the adventurous gamer yearning to push boundaries, there is a realm of unexpected thrilling discoveries: games that redefine what an interactive experience can be. Reverse horror games offer a twist on the typical horror experience. Instead of being a helpless victim, you step into the shoes of the antagonist, monster, or antihero and become the one wielding the power. Reverse horror games rely on humor, satire, and player empowerment to deliver a unique and refreshing take on the horror genre. One popular example is Carrion. In this game, you are a horrifying monster with tentacles escaping from a research facility. The game is exciting, and the old-school pixel graphics make it feel spooky. Crash games offer a unique and exhilarating proposition within the online casino world. For those who wish to wager while exploring the thrill of gaming, crash crypto games such as Aviator, Jet X, and Spaceman are popular choices. They present a risk-reward scenario unlike any other. Players witness a multiplier steadily climb on their screen, representing potential winnings that grow with each passing moment. The strategic tension lies in precisely when to cash out. The ever-present threat is a sudden crash that extinguishes all remaining bets. Crash games demand nerves of steel and a calculated approach, making them suitable only for those comfortable with a high degree of volatility, especially within the fast-paced world of online casinos. Tycoon games let you unleash your inner entrepreneur. You become the CEO, building and managing a business or organization. In these games, you need to make smart choices, handle money well, and make sure your customers stay satisfied. The possibilities are endless; you can choose from theme parks and zoos to bustling cities. ​For example in Cities: Skylines you get to create and govern your metropolis. And in Jurassic World Evolution players build and maintain their own Jurassic Park.

Delving into the Niche Genre

A niche genre is like a special kind of game club that only a few engage in. These games are worth exploring because they have unique features that set them apart from the most popular games Visual novels are a captivating form of interactive storytelling. In these games, players immerse themselves in rich narratives accompanied by static or animated illustrations. Unlike traditional video games, visual novels focus on characters, feelings, and choices. As you play, your decisions affect the story and lead to different endings. The games often delve into romance like in Doki Doki Literature Club, horror, or mystery like the Ace Attorney Series letting you make choices that impact the narrative. Puzzle platform games, a type of ‘jump ‘n’ run’ games, are for those who enjoy a mental challenge that comes with solving puzzles. These games mix jumping and running with puzzles that you have to solve to move forward.  Limbo for example is a stark puzzle platform game where a nameless boy navigates a perilous world through observation and wit. The game’s simple look and emotional feel create a lasting impression. Idle games are perfect for casual gamers who enjoy playing without intense focus like when you are unwinding or multitasking. You start with a basic action (like clicking) and gradually unlock upgrades. These upgrades help you progress in the game without needing to play actively. You might manage a virtual farm, build a busy city, or gather resources. A popular example is Cookie Clicker, where you start by clicking a giant cookie, and then use the earned cookies to buy upgrades that generate more cookies automatically.

Simulation Games

Simulation games are digital experiences that allow players to imitate real-world activities, in a virtual environment. They have become a popular genre for both casual and hardcore gamers. Walking simulators or walking sims are adventure games that primarily focus on movement and environmental interaction. Players navigate a captivating virtual world from a first-person view. Unlike traditional games, walking simulators have no combat levels or win/lose scenarios. Instead, players take their time exploring a carefully designed world. They learn the story from what they see and feel, like a puzzle of emotions. Firewatch for instance is an award-winning game that puts you in the boots of a fire lookout stationed in the vast wilderness of Wyoming. As you explore your surroundings, the game reveals a hidden story through your discoveries and conversations over the radio. Life simulation games offer a different kind of immersive experience. They put you in control of a virtual character (or characters) guiding them through everyday life. In these games, you talk to different characters, make decisions, and build relationships that impact the outcomes. For instance, The Sims is a game known for emphasizing how characters socialize and explore different personalities. By Chris Bates