Games Where You Don’t Matter

Playing as the hero is so ubiquitous in video games that it is rather rare for players not to feel like some kind of god among the seemingly unintelligent and unskilled NPCs. Players frequently encounter situations early in a game where they are deemed to be a “chosen one” sort of figure who will save the world from some evil force or miscreant.

There are occasions where the protagonist is merely a bystander, witnessing the major events taking place around them and having little or no tangible impact on proceedings. In such games, it really doesn’t matter what players do, as things will happen and their actions will go largely unnoticed by the world around them.

Kenshi

Unforgiving & Ever-Changing World

Often punishing and never dull, Kenshi is an open-world sandbox game that rewards the most adaptive players. Starting with nothing, there are no main characters and no particular goals other than those set by the player, but the main purpose is to just survive as long as possible in the harsh and hostile world.

While the player-character can have some impact and influence on the game world, it ultimately carries on and adapts based on the actions of NPCs, especially those of influence, like faction leaders. Some find Kenshi inaccessible, but those who persevere enjoy being just another small part of this complicated and brutal world.

Starsector

Space Sandbox With Sophisticated Economic & Political Structures

An indie RPG that is still frequently updated over a decade after its launch, Starsector simulates a procedurally generated universe with intricate political and economic systems. Starting with a fleet of ships, players must make their way in this vast and complex universe, trading, battling, and forming alliances.

There is the possibility of influencing certain factions during wars, either by joining them and assisting in battles or offering favorable trade deals, but many of the goings-on can occur without player intervention. Power and territory can shift without intervention, and the economy is ever evolving with different rates and tariffs depending on the location, or even outright bans on certain items.

The Tale Of Martin Septim

Obviously, the Hero of Kvatch is rather important during the events of The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion, but it is Martin Septim who earns all the plaudits and is written in the annals of history. The player can only really make themselves known by completing side quests and guild quests, but many NPCs will still look down upon them.

When the emperor chooses the player to help save the world and fulfill a prophecy, it appears somewhat random, though it may be no mere coincidence. However, Martin is the hero when it matters. Something similar can be said of its predecessor, Morrowind, in which the player-character is just one of many potential claimants of the Nerevarine title.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky

Fight Or Form Alliances In The Zone

As a prequel, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky can feel somewhat predetermined since players of its predecessor already have an idea where the narrative will lead. Controlling a mercenary named Scar, there are multiple factions that can be assisted or battled in the Zone surrounding Chernobyl, but this warfare has little impact on the events of the story.

It is worth noting that these choices can make certain missions easier or more difficult depending on who Scar is aligned with. A tough prospect for newcomers, the series is known for its hardcore combat, and players should expect to die repeatedly as they learn the mechanics of the game.

Mount & Blade: Warband

A Changing Medieval World

A medieval sandbox game with a dynamically changing world, Mount & Blade: Warband is a standalone expansion of the original RPG. Starting with nothing, the game allows for complete freedom to head out into Calradia and do pretty much anything, so long as roaming marauders and armies can be avoided or defeated.

There are no set objectives and few limits to what is possible. Earning more renown opens up more options and opportunities to take work from important people, but the world will alter itself without any outside influence. Faction leaders have their desires and behaviors, which can be different in each playthrough.

This War Of Mine

Just Survive In Pogoren

This War Of Mine is a truly harrowing and memorable experience that simulates the lives of civilians trying to survive in a besieged city. It is impossible to have any impact on the potential ceasefire, so it’s up to the playable characters to try and stay alive until such an event occurs, usually after around 35 days or so.

While out scavenging, survivors may encounter other people, who are either somewhat amicable or completely hostile, and it’s pretty clear to see that the playable characters are not special. Death can creep up at any time, so it’s crucial to prioritize essential supplies and not take any unnecessary risks.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance

Common Blacksmith Turned Soldier

Henry of Skalitz is a trainee blacksmith in Kingdom Come: Deliverance and does not have any sort of “chosen one” arc like in many other RPGs. Engaging in some excellent side quests and a branching main campaign, Henry is just a small part of the resistance against the invading Hungarian forces in the Kingdom of Bohemia.

Throughout the story, Henry’s actions may increase his reputation and standing with NPCs, but he generally remains somewhat under the radar. The general story is mostly his journey of growth and that of the people around him in the midst of a very difficult time.

The Banner Saga

Decisions Will Not Impact The World, But They Will Impact The Caravans

Inspired by Norse mythology, The Banner Saga puts players in control of two separate caravans of people trying to survive in a world where the warlike Dredge are trying to kill all humans. Gameplay is split between role-playing segments where choices must be made, and the caravans must be managed, plus XCOM-style combat where the consequences of defeat can be dire.

The survivors in the caravans can have very little impact on the wider world, instead focusing on their survival in the bleak lands. While each character may seem vitally important to players and one another, in the grand scheme of things, they are complete nobodies.