The Greatest Patriotic Video Games

Happy Fourth of July, everybody! You’ve probably already got your day planned out when it comes to celebrating this holiday, whether it’s cooking some food on the grill, partaking in some fireworks-based shenanigans, and other great activities. But you should definitely not leave video games out of the mix, as there are a number of great titles that you can play to ring in the celebration!

Granted, finding that “all-American” game that hails patriotism isn’t easy. Some games claim to have American themes, but come up short when it comes to really sticking to them. Fortunately, we’ve found a few titles that we feel really pay tribute to the good ol’ U.S. of A. in one form of another.

So without further ado, let’s look at the most patriotic video games you can play today.

Broforce (Steam, PlayStation 4)

Nothing beats obliterating terrorists that are just asking for it, and nothing beats doing so with some patriotic heroes that know how to kick ass and take names. That’s where the Broforce from Devolver Digital comes in, as you can pick from a handful of random characters – including ones “inspired” by Rambo, Blade, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Commando and so forth – and let loose with their assault style as they blow away enemies to kingdom come, all in the name of sweet, sweet freedom. For those that are into arcade-style affairs, this is a game worth adding to your collection.

Duke Nukem 3D (PC, various consoles)

“I came here to chew bubble gum and kick ass…and I’m all out of bubble gum!” Sure, Roddy Piper made this line famous in They Live, but it’s all part of Duke Nukem’s wonderful dialogue in this awesome, ass-kicking first-person shooter. Take on alien hordes and make them regret ever stepping foot on Earth with a variety of weapons, including a shrink gun that lets you skoosh them like insects. For that matter, make sure you take a break and slip some dollar bills to a few strippers as well – because even all-American heroes deserve a break. Hail to the King!

Contra series (various)

Even though the games were made by a Japanese company – Konami – the Contra series just feels like it pumps right into the heart of the hardcore gamer, even here in the U.S. You portray one of two heroic soldiers as they go head-to-head against the Red Falcon group, consisting of evil enemies and aliens that are trying to overthrow the Earth. Well, not if my spread gun has anything to say about it! With many adventures to choose from (including the NES originals and Contra III: The Alien Wars), the series is all about stepping up to the challenge and proving your worth!

Assassin’s Creed III (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

While the latest entry in the Assassin’s Creed series, Origins, will be making its way to Egypt, there was one point in which tit was actually based on our American shores, where you portrayed an assassin fighting for the American way, taking care of the British garrisons like a boss and working alongside characters like Ben Franklin and other historic types. The setting was perfect for a game such as this, and the action is tried and true Assassin’s Creed. On top of that, Conner made for a great assassin, fighting for the sake of his people. It’s backwards compatible on Xbox One, so be sure to check it out!

Saints Row IV (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Speaking of patriotism, there was a time that we had a kick-ass president – and he (or she) was a Saint! Saints Row IV proved to be quite the turning point in the series, as you adapted awesome new powers and great weaponry in an attempt to overthrow an alien coup. This game is filled with ripe moments, but it never forgets about ol’ Lady Liberty – even if you’re cruising through a spaceship while listening to “What Is Love?”. Bonus points: Keith David serves as the vice president. Yes, that Keith David. We love this game.

Bad Dudes vs. Dragon Ninja (Arcade, NES)

“Are you a bad enough dude to save the President?” This is asked of you when you get started in Data East’s classic romp, where you face all kinds of dangerous ninja enemies (and bosses, like an early form of Karnov) as you attempt to save our world leader from dismay. Sure, guns would’ve been handy for fighting these guys off, but no matter. Bad Dudes is all about showing your gruff, beating the bad guys to a pulp, and then celebrating with the prez with a good ol’ fashioned burger. Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!

Call of Duty: World At War (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

We’d be crazy if we didn’t mention a Call of Duty game somewhere on this list, and there’s no better game in the series that celebrates American themes than with World At War. Yes, it does have that Russian side story, but it ties in wonderfully with the American side of it as well, and really shows you both sides as you fight against the Nazi regime in the name of freedom. This game has plenty of outstanding battle moments, including a turning point battle where you can’t help but shout out at the top of your lungs as you emerge with a victory. “GLORIOUS!”

BONUS: Patriotic Pinball (PlayStation)

While Patriotic Pinball isn’t quite the best video game pinball game ever made (both Zen Pinball 2 and The Pinball Arcade runs laps around it), it’s definitely wrapped up heavily in Americana themes, so you probably won’t mind as you attempt to rack up a high score. The game features two diverse tables – Road Trip Coast To Coast and America On Duty, with a number of themes and missions to take on, based on classic American themes. The best thing about this game is you can probably track down a copy for pretty cheap, if you’re curious. It’s not the best pinball out there, but it’s certainly the most American-themed.