Although the lure of going on an African safari is entirely understandable, it isn’t always achievable for people. For instance, some animal lovers can’t afford it, while others have work commitments. In order to get their animal fix, though, many people explore the virtual world instead.
Animals are always embraced by the gaming community. There are cute critters, deadly animals players aim to avoid, and loveable pooches who keep gamers safe. Even today, McLuck slot games like Greedy Wolf are filled with pigs, while console favorites like Stray are adored by feline fans. They aren’t the only examples of impactful animal creatures in games, though. In fact, throughout the history of gaming, animals have starred in so many titles.
It’s fair to say many video games wouldn’t be the same without the animals who have played such an integral role in them. So, in order to salute them, below is a brief look at some of the best animals in video games from over the years.
Ikaros – Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey
Starting proceedings off with an eagle that people who have played Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey will struggle to forget, Ikaros is a vital character in the game. As an eagle, he can reach destinations others can’t. He almost acts like a drone for some of the game’s main characters who need to scope out a specific location, and he even manages to identify the enemy from afar in order to help a player’s chances of taking them down. Overall, without Ikaros, Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey would be almost impossible to succeed in.
Trico – The Last Guardian
The Last Guardian might have had a few issues around bugs and the like, but Trico’s presence more than makes up for any teething problems the game initially experienced. A cat and a bird all in one, Trico can reach places gamers simply can’t. He also helps keep the guards at bay and assist players whenever they needed it, although Trico is easily spooked given his horrific past when he suffered abuse. An issue many animals face away from the virtual environment, Trico therefore immediately wins over gamers who simply want to look after him and have a trusted sidekick on their journey through a top gaming release.
My Horse 2 – Red Dead Redemption 2
Given the game’s strong cowboy theme, Red Dead Redemption has always needed a horse. In the second installment of the game, My Horse 2 – who players can give a new name – is the perfect buddy. From enabling players to travel around with ease, to helping them escape from an epic gun fight, the horse is vitally important.
Dogmeat – Fallout
People love dogs in the real world. In the virtual world, people also love their canine chums. Dogmeat is one of the most memorable doggies of the lot, with this loveable companion from the Fallout series of games providing the usual loyalty dogs do in real life, alongside following players on their journey throughout what is a truly excellent game. Dogmeat is also helpful in tricky situations, he takes down the occasional baddie, and he’s just always there when you need him the most.
Palico – Monster Hunter World
Monster Hunter World is a title many gamers adore for numerous reasons, but the inclusion of Palico is surely right up there with many players. As customizable bipedal cats, these loveable two-legged “Felynes” team up with the monster hunters and assist them with numerous tasks. Without them in the game, the hunters wouldn’t be able to communicate, they’d struggle on their various hunts, and the game definitely wouldn’t be the same.