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Top 15 games where you get to play as an animal

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Ignacio Weil

Gaming - September 27th 2024, 16:00 GMT+2

About this gallery:

To create this list, we decided to focus only on games where you play as an animal (although in many cases it’s a fantastic creature), and not as an anthropomorphic one—that could be a whole separate list on its own.

Also, remember that this is a subjective list! If you think we missed an important game, let us know in the comments! | © Mooneye Studios

15. Impossible Creatures (2003)

Take two animals, smoosh them together, and voilà—you've got yourself a fighting chimera! Impossible Creatures is as wild as it sounds, letting you create hybrid monsters for strategy battles. Cool idea? Absolutely. But the novelty wears off faster than you'd expect, landing this one at the bottom of our list. Still, ever wanted a shark-eagle? Here’s your shot. | © Relic Entertainment

14. Seasons after Fall (2016)

You’re a fox who controls the seasons. It’s basically Mother Nature: Fox Edition. The hand-drawn art is lovely, but the puzzles are a bit... well, easy. Still, if you’re in the mood for a relaxing, cozy romp through nature without breaking much of a sweat, this one’s your jam. | © Swing Swing Submarine

13. Shelter (2013)

In Shelter, you’re a badger mom trying to keep your babies alive. It’s emotional, stressful, and beautiful all at once. The simple gameplay is a double-edged sword—it’s easy to pick up but over just as quickly. But if you’ve ever wanted to feel the highs and lows of badger parenthood, this is the game for you. | © Might and Delight

12. Spirit of the North (2019)

Playing as a majestic fox following a mystical spirit sounds like an ethereal experience, and Spirit of the North delivers on the vibes. The downside? You might get lost—literally and metaphorically. It’s gorgeous, sure, but some might find the lack of direction a bit frustrating. | © Infuse Studio

11. Tokyo Jungle (2012)

Post-apocalyptic Tokyo, where animals have taken over. You can play as anything from a Pomeranian to a dinosaur, and it's as wild as it sounds. While the gameplay can get repetitive, the sheer chaos of a dog trying to survive in a jungle of skyscrapers is worth the experience. | © Sony Computer Entertainment

Rainworld — 10. Rain World (2017)

Ever wonder what it’s like to be a slugcat? Well, wonder no more. Rain World is punishing, sometimes to the point of cruelty, but it’s also fascinating. You’ll die a lot (a *lot*), but that makes each small victory all the sweeter. Survival of the sluggiest, if you will. | © Videocult

9. Goat Simulator (2014)

Goat Simulator is the gaming equivalent of “what if we let the internet make a game?”—chaotic, absurd, and just plain fun. You’re a goat, and the world is your playground to destroy. It’s not exactly deep, but hey, sometimes you just need to be a goat flying through the air in a jetpack. | © Coffee Stain Studios

LOST EMBER — 8. Lost Ember (2019)

If beautiful visuals and heartfelt stories are your thing, then Lost Ember is your spirit game. You’re a wolf that can take over other animals to explore a stunning world. While the gameplay itself is on the simpler side, it’s more about soaking in the atmosphere. A relaxing, thoughtful journey for those quiet gaming nights. | © Mooneye Studios

Maneater Launch Screen 6 — 7. Maneater (2020)

Sharks don’t get enough love in video games, so Maneater comes in with a big bite. You’re a shark out for revenge, munching your way through oceans and humans alike. It’s like Jaws meets RPG leveling, with a side of dark humor. The repetition is there, but when you’re a giant shark, who’s complaining? | © Tripwire Interactive

6. Untitled Goose Game (2019)

HONK. This game lets you be the world’s most annoying goose, and honestly, it’s everything you never knew you needed. The premise is simple—cause chaos in a quiet village—but it’s executed with such charm and humor that you’ll be grinning the whole time. It’s short, but sweet, like a goose-stolen sandwich. | © House House

Endling Extinction is Forever — 5. Endling: Extinction is Forever (2022)

Grab the tissues, because Endling will hit you right in the feels. You play as a mother fox trying to protect her cubs in a world ruined by human activity. It's equal parts heartbreaking and beautiful, blending survival mechanics with a powerful message about environmental destruction. | © Herobeat Studios

4. Spyro the Dragon Franchise (1998-present)

Who doesn’t love Spyro? The purple dragon’s adventures are platforming perfection, combining fun gameplay with vibrant worlds and quirky characters. Whether you’re playing the originals or the Reignited Trilogy, Spyro’s still as fun as ever. A true nostalgic treasure. | © Insomniac Games/Activision

3. Ori and the Blind Forest (2015)

Get ready for a tearjerker wrapped in stunning visuals. Ori and the Blind Forest is a platformer that’s as difficult as it is beautiful. With tight controls, a moving story, and a breathtaking score, this one sticks with you long after the credits roll. Bonus points if you don’t cry (you will). | © Moon Studios

2. Stray (2022)

Ever wanted to be a cat exploring a cyberpunk dystopia? Stray has you covered. This game nails the feeling of being a cat—from knocking over items to solving puzzles—while also delivering an emotional, well-crafted story. Cats + sci-fi = a purrfect match (I’ll see myself out). | © BlueTwelve Studio

1. Okami (2006)

This might just be the most beautiful game ever made. In Okami, you’re the wolf goddess Amaterasu, using your celestial brush to restore life to a cursed land. The Japanese art style is stunning, and the gameplay is still innovative years later. Okami is a timeless classic that’s as much a work of art as it is a game. | © Clover Studio

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Ever dreamt of living life on four legs, feathers, or even a slimy trail? Whether you're a mischievous goose, a mighty dragon, or a shark with a grudge, these games let you leave your human worries behind and step into the paws, fins, or claws of a creature. From majestic wolves to chaotic goats, here’s our list of the Top 15 Games Where You Play as an Animal—because sometimes, being human is overrated.

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Ever dreamt of living life on four legs, feathers, or even a slimy trail? Whether you're a mischievous goose, a mighty dragon, or a shark with a grudge, these games let you leave your human worries behind and step into the paws, fins, or claws of a creature. From majestic wolves to chaotic goats, here’s our list of the Top 15 Games Where You Play as an Animal—because sometimes, being human is overrated.