Unexpectedly Fun Video Game Moments: Historical Anomalies and Cheeky Design Elements
Video games offer a world of adventure and excitement, but occasionally, developers introduce humorous Easter eggs and design elements that unexpectedly make gamers laugh. In this article, we explore two such moments that struck us as both funnily unexpected and delightful in the context of classic video games. These instances highlight the creative spirit of game developers and offer a glimpse into the playful and often subversive nature of gaming culture.
The Tortured Crusaders of Stronghold Crusader
Stronghold Crusader, a strategy game from the early 2000s, has a mission that reenacts the Battle of Hattin. This mission is historically accurate to a degree, depicting the real-life Battle of Hattin, where Saladin's forces triumphed due to the Crusaders being cut off from a water source. The game, however, takes a humorous turn by enhancing the player's experience in an unexpected manner. Instead of reflecting the historical thirst of the Crusaders, it introduces a humorous twist.
Historically, the Crusaders were defeated because they lacked water, leading to their troops becoming exhausted and their morale plummeting. In the game, developers decided to add "torture buildings," which have the ironic effect of running the peasants ragged and lowering the morale of the troops. According to the original creators, this was done to justify the troops' poor performance. However, as the player, this presents a funnily unexpected twist.
Laugh out loud (LOL): If this game were remade in a modern style, perhaps it would have a "water source nearby" with multiple unit lines indicating their thirst. This fictional scenario adds a whimsical dimension to the game’s history, making the in-game narrative both hilarious and memorable.
Lara Croft's Compromising Position in Tomb Raider
Another memorable moment comes from the original Tomb Raider series. In one scene, Lara Croft and her butler are shown in a practice ground where Lara is training to leap and jump across obstacles. The original game featured a rather amusing balalaika-inspired butler who carried a tray of items. The butler's playful demeanor contrasts sharply with the serious and often perilous missions Lara faces in the game.
The original Tomb Raider allowed players to explore the game world, refine Lara's skills, and even add a touch of humor to the practice sessions. One particularly funnily unexpected moment occurred when a player managed to get Lara Croft in a very compromising position between the tray and the butler. While the game doesn't permit capturing screen shots, the player described the scene using vivid words:
I was trying to get Lara to land on his head as you do when she managed to get stuck in a very compromising position between the tray and the butler. Every time they moved together, it was absolutely hilarious, and I couldn't stop laughing. Unfortunately, I couldn't capture a screen shot due to my woefully under-powered PC, but the moment remains a cherished memory.
These moments serve as a reminder that even in the most serious of games, developers often inject a touch of humor. They create unexpected situations and allow players to find joy in the absurdity of the scenarios. These little nuances not only enhance the gameplay experience but also provide a fun and memorable aspect to the games.
Conclusion
Video games are more than just a form of entertainment; they are a canvas for creativity and innovation. The unexpected and funny moments, like the tortured Crusaders and the compromising position in Tomb Raider, showcase a playful and imaginative spirit among developers. They remind us that even in the most scripted and historically accurate games, there is room for humor and joy. As gamers, we are presented with not just a challenge, but a delightful adventure through unexpected twists and turns.
Whether through historical reenactments gone awry or quirky scenarios that make players howl with laughter, these moments make the gaming experience even more memorable and enjoyable. So, the next time you find yourself playing a classic game, keep an eye out for these unexpectedly fun moments that could turn a gaming session into a laughing one!