Lost Human Tech: Games With A Planet Of The Apes Twist

Hey guys, ever get that feeling of stumbling upon something ancient and mysterious, a relic from a civilization so advanced it might as well be magic? That's the kind of vibe we're diving into today! We're talking about games where the characters in the game world are totally blown away by the "lost technology" of "ancient humans." It's like that classic Planet of the Apes twist, where what we take for granted is mind-boggling to someone else. Buckle up, because we're about to explore some seriously cool examples of this trope in gaming.

The Allure of Forgotten Wonders

This concept of discovering the remnants of a long-gone, technologically superior human civilization is a goldmine for storytelling. It allows developers to explore themes of progress, hubris, and the cyclical nature of history. When characters within a game world gawk at our everyday tech – things we barely even think about – it forces us, the players, to reconsider our own place in the grand scheme of things. Imagine a tribal warrior staring in disbelief at a perfectly preserved smartphone, trying to decipher its purpose. Or a futuristic scavenger piecing together the functionality of a simple internal combustion engine. The possibilities are endless! It's not just about the tech itself; it's about the implications. What happened to these ancient humans? What led to their downfall? And what lessons can the current inhabitants of the game world learn from their fate? The mystery surrounding these lost technologies fuels player curiosity and encourages exploration, making for a more engaging and rewarding gaming experience. The contrast between the primitive understanding of the game's present and the advanced capabilities of the past creates a sense of wonder and awe. This awe is often a key element in driving the narrative forward, as characters are motivated to uncover the secrets of the past and potentially harness the power of these forgotten wonders. Think about the potential for gameplay mechanics too! Maybe players have to figure out how to repair and utilize these ancient devices, learning their functions through trial and error. Or perhaps they must defend these relics from factions who seek to exploit their power for nefarious purposes. This setup also provides a great way to world-build, hinting at a rich and complex history through environmental storytelling and cryptic clues left behind by the ancient humans. The possibilities are truly vast, and it's no wonder that so many games have embraced this trope to create compelling and memorable experiences.

Examples in Gaming

So, where can you find this particular flavor of sci-fi/fantasy in your gaming diet? Let's look at some concrete examples:

Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn is practically the poster child for this trope. In a lush, post-apocalyptic world overrun by robotic creatures, Aloy, the main character, uncovers the secrets of the "Old Ones" – us! The game masterfully reveals the story of how our civilization collapsed due to runaway technology and environmental disasters. Aloy discovers ancient bunkers filled with functioning computers, medical equipment, and even audio logs that paint a vivid picture of our time. What's truly amazing is how the Nora tribe, and other tribes in the game, view this technology with a mixture of fear and reverence. They see the machines as demons and the Old Ones as mythical figures. Aloy's journey is all about understanding our past to secure a better future, making the discovery of lost human technology central to the gameplay and narrative. The game world is littered with the remnants of our civilization, from crumbling skyscrapers to abandoned research facilities. Each discovery provides valuable insights into the events that led to the apocalypse and the origins of the robotic creatures that now roam the land. As Aloy delves deeper into the mysteries of the past, she gains access to powerful weapons and tools that were created by the Old Ones, giving her an edge in her fight against the machines. The game beautifully blends the primitive and the futuristic, creating a unique and captivating world where the past and present are inextricably linked. The story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked technological advancement and the importance of environmental stewardship. It reminds us that our actions have consequences, and that the mistakes of the past can haunt us in the future. Horizon Zero Dawn is a must-play for anyone who loves exploring the themes of lost technology and the fall of civilization.

NieR: Automata

While perhaps more subtle than Horizon Zero Dawn, NieR: Automata also features elements of this trope. The game takes place in a distant future where humanity has been driven off Earth by machines. Androids, created by humans, are sent back to fight the machines and reclaim the planet. As the androids explore the ruins of our cities, they encounter remnants of human technology, such as old televisions, rusted cars, and abandoned amusement parks. These relics serve as poignant reminders of what humanity has lost and the sacrifices they have made. The androids, who are essentially immortal, struggle to understand the fleeting nature of human life and the emotions that drive them. The lost technology of the past becomes a symbol of human ingenuity and creativity, as well as a testament to their mortality. The game explores themes of existentialism, artificial intelligence, and the meaning of life. The androids' quest to understand humanity leads them on a journey of self-discovery, as they grapple with their own identities and their purpose in the world. The ruins of human civilization serve as a constant reminder of the past, urging the androids to learn from the mistakes of their creators and to strive for a better future. The game's haunting soundtrack and melancholic atmosphere perfectly capture the sense of loss and longing that permeates the world. NieR: Automata is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing.

Subnautica

Stranded on an alien ocean planet after your spaceship crashes, you're tasked with surviving and eventually escaping. However, as you explore deeper and deeper, you uncover the secrets of an ancient alien race that visited the planet long before humans. They possessed incredibly advanced technology, which ultimately led to their downfall due to a deadly disease. You find their abandoned research facilities, weapon systems, and even the cures they desperately sought. The game cleverly uses these discoveries to advance the plot and provide you with the tools you need to survive. Learning about the lost technology isn't just cool; it's essential for your survival. You reverse engineer alien tech to build submarines, upgrade your equipment, and ultimately find a way to cure yourself of the same disease that wiped out the aliens. The game's open-world environment and sense of exploration make discovering these ancient ruins a truly rewarding experience. Each new discovery provides valuable insights into the history of the planet and the fate of the alien race. The game also raises questions about the ethics of technological advancement and the potential consequences of our actions. Subnautica is a thrilling and immersive adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat as you uncover the mysteries of the deep.

Why This Trope Works So Well

So, why is this "lost technology" thing so appealing in games? I think it boils down to a few key factors:

• Mystery and Intrigue: It creates a sense of wonder and encourages players to explore the game world. Everyone loves a good mystery, and the idea of uncovering the secrets of a lost civilization is incredibly compelling.
• World-Building: It adds depth and history to the game world, making it feel more believable and immersive. The presence of ancient ruins and forgotten technologies hints at a rich and complex past, which can greatly enhance the player's experience.
• Relatability (Ironically): Even though it's about advanced technology, it's relatable because it's about us. It makes us think about our own progress and where we're headed. It's a way of holding a mirror up to our own society and asking, "What if...?"
• Empowerment: Discovering and utilizing this lost technology often makes the player character stronger and more capable, adding a sense of progression and accomplishment. It's satisfying to find a powerful weapon or a useful tool that was created by an ancient civilization, and to use it to overcome challenges.

Beyond the Examples

Of course, these are just a few examples. You can find variations of this trope in countless other games, from RPGs to strategy games to even some horror titles. The core idea remains the same: the characters are awed and often bewildered by the technological remnants of a previous civilization, usually (but not always) ancient humans. The execution and the specific narrative context might differ, but the underlying appeal remains constant. So, next time you're playing a game and you stumble upon a rusty robot, a crumbling skyscraper, or a strange device that no one seems to understand, take a moment to appreciate the "Planet of the Apes" twist. It might just be the key to unlocking a deeper understanding of the game world and its inhabitants.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the allure of lost technology in games lies in its ability to spark our imagination and make us question our own place in the universe. It's a reminder that progress is not always linear and that even the most advanced civilizations can fall. By exploring these themes, games can offer us not only entertainment but also valuable insights into ourselves and the world around us. So, go forth and explore the ancient ruins of gaming, and discover the wonders that await you! You never know what secrets you might uncover.