Video games take players to incredible places during their adventures,such as abandoned temples in the middle of nowhere, unexplored caves, or planets inhabited by other civilizations. Moreover, many of these stories feature another important element: cities.
Varying in size and setting, many of these cities are remembered by players as key locations in their respective games. Whether they are central to the plot that develops throughout the game or a place where characters can rest and replenish some resources before returning to the wilderness for a new adventure, these cities leave a lasting impression.
TheDungeons & Dragonstabletop RPGfeatures several impressive cities like Waterdeep and Neverwinter,but none are as prominent in video games as Baldur’s Gate. Also present in the first two games of the franchise with the same name, the city received a significant visual update inBaldur’s Gate 3, making it even more beautiful.
In Larian’s game, the characters' journey is to reach Baldur’s Gate. This event finally happens in the third and final chapter of the story, where many plot events must unfold. The attention to detail and architecture of the city are unique, filled with interesting content to be discovered as players explore its streets and alleys.
Despite the problematic launch ofCyberpunk 2077and the redemption arc the game has undergone in recent years, the construction of Night City has always been praised in CD Projekt Red’s title. As soon as V looks up, players see the influence of megacorporations in the universe, with an even greater disparity between the rich and poor.
Moreover, the developers made sure that exploring Night City happened organically, with the protagonist transitioning between different city districts and feeling the differences. At the same time, the city still holds various secrets for players to discover during their adventures.
Los Santos, the main setting of the fifth installment in theGrand Theft Autofranchise and one of the main locations inGTA: San Andreas, represents the franchise’s interpretation of Los Angeles.This stunning city is explored in detail by the series' fans, housing the ultra-rich and incorporating less developed areas.
The city is famous for its breathtaking views, including mountains, beaches, deserts, and developed urban areas, all accessible within minutes of travel. Los Santos offers a unique mix of environments, making it one of the most interesting locations in the entireGTAfranchise.
TheFalloutfranchise has always been filled with iconic citieslike Megaton, Necropolis, and Diamond City, but New Vegas has a special charm that makes it a favorite for many fans. Thanks to the actions of the mysterious Robert House, Vegas survived the Great War without being completely destroyed by the nuclear missiles.
During the events ofFallout: New Vegas, players explore a city that still shines with the old world’s decadence and glamour. New Vegas is a refuge of civilization in the devastated desert, filled with casinos, neon lights, and factions constantly vying for control of the region.
One thing CD Projekt Red achieved inThe Witcherseries, especially in the third game, is that every place Geralt visits during his journey has a unique atmosphere. Among the cities in the game, Novigrad stands out the most.
Novigrad is a city of entertainment and gangs that control the region from the shadows.This vibrant atmosphere, combined with detailed architecture, makes it the perfect setting for various quests and stories. From theatrical performances and alliances with crime bosses to hunting a serial killer fanatically devoted to the Eternal Fire, Novigrad offers it all.
Resident Evil
Raccoon City is an icon in theResident Eviluniverse, being the epicenter of the viral outbreak that defined the series. Introduced in the first game and explored in several versions, the city is synonymous with horror and survival. Itis also where players meet various important charactersin their adventures.
Raccoon City’s importance to the franchise lies in its rich history and tense atmosphere, which are fundamental to the games' narrative. From the dark corridors of the police station to the zombie-infested streets, each version of the city contributes to building the legacy for which the games are known.
TheFinal Fantasyfranchise features many incredible places for players to visit,but few are as impressive as the city of Midgar inFinal Fantasy 7. Whether in the original PlayStation 1 version or the remake, the metropolis powered by mako energy serves to show players the game’s setting and define the initial pillars of the plot.
Its design is also beautiful, with steampunk-inspired structures that enhance its architecture. At the same time, it shows players the contrast among the population. From the lower part of Midgar, Cloud and other inhabitants can see how Shinra and the wealthy live comfortably above.
The Citadel is the political and cultural heart of the galaxy inMass Effect. Built by the mysterious Protheans, it serves as the seat of the Citadel Council government, housing various alien species and symbolizing intergalactic cooperation among these civilizations.
Its impressive architecture, with five massive arms and a central core, stands out as a marvel of engineering and design. The Citadel also serves as a symbol of the diversity ofMass Effectcivilizations. Players can see this mainly in the first game of the franchise, where they have greater freedom and time to explore it.
The city of Rapture in theBioShockfranchise was conceived as the perfect utopia for humanity’s great artists and minds, where they could develop their works away from government oppression or contemporary religions. The theory was good, but the result players find upon arrival is a devastated place.
Now, Rapture is a nightmare of an underwater dystopia. Andrew Ryan’s grand vision has been corrupted by civil wars, abuse of power, and the catastrophic effects of ADAM, a genetically modifying substance. The beautiful art deco structures are in ruins, and the once-brilliant inhabitants have turned into deranged monsters. The city serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambitions.
Whiterun is not the most important city inSkyrim, nor is it one of the most imposing in the entireThe Elder Scrollsfranchise. Still, it is iconic for being the first city most players encounter when starting their journey inThe Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim. After fleeing Alduin in Helgen and passing through Riverwood, the likely destination for everyone is Whiterun.
The city also has some interesting points, such as Dragonsreach, Breezehome, and the Skyforge. It is also the location where The Companions have their guild base. Additionally, it is in Whiterun that players meet Lydia, one of the main followers inSkyrim, making the city a landmark in the game.
