Games that Use Genetics as a Plot Device or Gameplay Element
A recent conversation got me thinking about the science of genetics being used as a narrative or gameplay device in video games. I started thinking back on games I've played that may have included genetics as a component of their stories or even as a fundamental part of the gameplay design.
As I think on genetics as a concept, I would include plot devices like genetically modified super-soldiers and genetic mutant creatures but also heredity and breeding. However, I think it's important to constrain the definition so that you're not just creating a list of "games involving mutant creatures" or "games involving heredity", so the genetic component of those sub-concepts should be specifically called out in the game. Most of these games are likely to be in the science fiction genre, though there may be a few in other genres as well.
To me, the ur-example is Metal Gear Solid. In this game, genetics is clearly called out as a component of the narrative multiple times and in numerous ways. I think this list should include games that are similarly direct about the inclusion of genetics, which means a game like Starcraft is also included (because some Terrans in the narrative are genetically modified, and the Zerg and Protoss races are the result of genetic experiments by a progenitor race called the Xel'naga).
An example of a game that I would not consider included that includes a related concept (heredity/traits) is Rogue Legacy because genetics is never specifically referenced.
With these definitions in mind, let's construct a list of games including the concept of genetics!
