Video games have the power to transport players to diverse and captivating locations. While games often explore popular settings like Hawaii or New Orleans, Australia remains an underrepresented gem in the gaming world. Despite this, a handful of games have successfully captured the essence of the Land Down Under, offering players a virtual tour of its beauty and uniqueness.
Australia has been the backdrop for several well-known games, such as Bioshock, L.A. Noire, and Way of the Exploding Fist. However, for a truly Antipodean experience, gamers should delve into these top video games set in Australia.
8Kao The Kangaroo
Metascore: 65
Australia's popularity in platform games soared with the introduction of a certain PlayStation mascot. Inspired by this trend, Kao the Kangaroo emerged as one of the contenders. This boxing marsupial starred in a series of games, including a recent comeback in 2022, offering players a fun platforming experience.
7Ty The Tasmanian Tiger 2: Bush Rescue
Metascore: 69
Ty the Tasmanian Tiger series, developed in Australia by Krome Studios, drew inspiration directly from the country's landscapes and wildlife. With its open-world gameplay and unique characters like Ty, the last thylacine, the game offered an engaging experience, with Ty 2: Bush Rescue being a standout title in the series.
6Crash Bandicoot
Metacritic User Score: 8.2
Crash Bandicoot, a pioneer in marsupial-themed platformers, paved the way for games like Kao and Ty. Despite its settings leaning towards Polynesian influences, Crash Bandicoot incorporated Australian fauna into its character design, creating a unique gaming experience with a touch of Down Under.
5Taz-Mania
GameFAQs Score: 3/5 Stars
Taz-Mania, inspired by the Tasmanian Devil character, offered players a wild platforming experience reminiscent of Sonic the Hedgehog. With its fast-paced gameplay and iconic character, Taz-Mania captured the essence of Australian-themed gaming in a fun and engaging manner.
4Webbed
Metacritic User Score: 8.3
Webbed, a puzzle platformer created by Sbug Games, offers players a realistic depiction of Australia's nature through the eyes of a peacock jumping spider. With innovative gameplay mechanics and physics-based challenges, Webbed immerses players in a vibrant and engaging world inspired by the Australian landscape.
3Forza Horizon 3
Metascore: 93
Forza Horizon 3 takes players on a thrilling racing adventure through Australia's diverse terrains, offering a unique open-world experience set entirely within the country. With a wide selection of cars and challenges, players can immerse themselves in a fictional yet authentic recreation of Australia's stunning landscapes.
2Beneath A Steel Sky
Metascore: 82 (Remastered Edition)
Beneath a Steel Sky, a point-and-click masterpiece set in a dystopian Australia, offers players a gripping narrative intertwined with the country's unique cultural references. With its immersive storytelling and captivating gameplay, Beneath a Steel Sky stands out as a must-play title for those seeking a serious and thought-provoking gaming experience.
1The Adventures Of Down Under Dan
MyAbandonware Score: 4/5 Stars
The Adventures of Down Under Dan, a quirky point-and-click adventure game, offers players a humorous take on Australian culture and stereotypes. Developed by PowerVision, the game provides a lighthearted and entertaining exploration of the Outback, making it a fun choice for players looking for a unique and comical gaming experience.