Oppenheimer’s Top 6 Manhattan Project-inspired Games
Oppenheimer's Top 6 Manhattan Project-inspired Games
6 Games That Reference the Manhattan Project
One of the most world-changing events in the past century was the invention of the atomic bomb. Its use on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 ended World War 2 and began the Cold War, where the threat of more nuclear launches left people living in fear. But let’s put aside the doom and gloom for a moment and dive into some games that have referenced the Manhattan Project and the A-Bomb in a more lighthearted way!
6 – Tennis For Two
We all know about J. Robert Oppenheimer, one of the most famous scientists involved with the bomb. But did you know that the bomb’s electronics and GameTopicition mechanism were created by William Higinbotham? After his work on the bomb, he used some old oscilloscope tech to create “Tennis for Two,” arguably the first-ever video game. So, yes, the man who made the bombs explode also made a little tennis game on the side. Talk about a multi-talented scientist!
5 – Fallout
When it comes to games involving nukes, the original Fallout takes the cake. While it’s set in the post-apocalyptic future, the game’s backstory reveals that before the war devastated the land, a company called Manhattan Projects Inc was making nuclear weapons for the world powers. Their last warhead, Plutonius, became a god-like figure worshipped by the characters in later Fallout games. So, while Fallout may not directly reference the Manhattan Project, it definitely pays homage to the bomb’s impact on the world.
4 – Wasteland 2
From the company behind Fallout’s sequels, Wasteland 2 is another game that showcases the aftermath of a nuclear war. In this game, you play as a Desert Ranger in a post-nuclear Southwest US, facing rogue AI, machines, and bomb-worshipping cults. While Wasteland 2 doesn’t directly reference the Manhattan Project, it does include a location called Los Alamitos, surrounded by deadly radiation and robots. If you can befriend Dekkar and his dogs while scavenging for items, you’ll gain some extra XP. Just be sure to avoid the deadly radiation!
3 – Braid
Let’s switch gears and talk about a puzzle platformer that’ll twist your mind like radioactive uranium! Braid, developed by Jonathan Blow, combines traditional platforming with time-manipulating trickery. While the game’s story initially seems like a typical hero-rescuing-princess scenario, it eventually unveils a darker twist. Players collect jigsaw pieces that hint towards the main character’s involvement in nuclear science. With its clever gameplay and thought-provoking story, Braid might just blow your mind like an atomic bomb!
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2 – Trinity
Ever wondered why Braid mixed its anti-Mario gameplay with the Manhattan Project? Well, the answer might be hidden in Jonathan Blow’s other game called Trinity. This 1986 text adventure game takes players on a journey to prevent a catastrophe at the original Trinity test site. By visiting other locations affected by nuclear strikes, players gather clues to piece together the puzzle and save the day. It’s a mind-bending experience that intertwines the horrors of nuclear warfare with interactive storytelling.
1 – Metal Gear
Last but not least, we have the infamous Metal Gear series. These games consistently revolve around the theme of nuclear weapons and the consequences they bring. Whether it’s trying to stop someone from launching a warhead or dealing with the aftermath of radiation-induced birth defects, Metal Gear has a firm stance against the Manhattan Project. It’s no surprise, considering the series was developed in Japan, a country that experienced firsthand the devastating power of the atomic bomb. So gear up and get ready for some stealthy anti-nuclear action!
By exploring these games, we can appreciate how the Manhattan Project and the A-Bomb have influenced not only history but also the world of gaming. From tennis games made by bomb creators to post-apocalyptic adventures, these games offer a unique perspective on the impact of nuclear technology. So, grab your controllers and embark on these atomic gaming adventures! Remember, it’s all in good fun… just don’t press any red buttons.
