5 Games To Help Celebrate the Fourth of July

Although many games don’t directly the holiday, many games out there are oozing Fourth of July energy. Whether due to their patriotic nature or various references to fireworks and celebrations, some games, like Animal Crossing or Minecraft, are perfect for Independence Day. Others on the other hand, just seem to fit the themes of freedom that the holiday represents. No matter the reason, video games are probably the best medium to capture the spirit of the Fourth. Sadly, due to the nature of the holiday, many people are going to be outdoors. However, for those stuck inside and looking for something to do, here are 5 games to help you celebrate the Fourth of July.

5. Animal Crossing

First up is Animal Crossing, a game that directly features Fourth of July-esque holidays. In the very first Animal Crossing game for the Gamecube, there is a fireworks show on the lake every Fourth of July. Although in the game, the reason for celebrating is the anniversary of opening the Train Station, this show is an obvious nod to Independence Day. Sadly, later entries of the series removed the direct reference to American Independence Day and now feature some slightly different holidays. Luckily, the fireworks are still heavily featured and the main attraction these days. In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, players can even customize their own fireworks for the show. For players looking to celebrate the Fourth of July with their villagers, Animal Crossing has got you covered.

4. Minecraft

Although many players wouldn’t think of Minecraft as their go-to Fourth of July experience, many elements of the game line up with the holiday. For starters, Minecraft is, first and foremost, a game about freedom and independence, something that Independence Day treasures. Next, the game also has plenty of fireworks that players can set off to make intricate shows. If you can’t see fireworks in real life on the Fourth of July, Minecraft may just be a great substitute. Finally, the players can even throw their BBQ or picnic in the game. Paired with fireworks, Minecraft is the optimal game to help celebrate the Fourth of July.

3. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

For any player looking for an interesting plot about America versus Russia in the Cold War, then Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is a great choice. For players that know the game, Metal Gear Solid 3 specifically is oozing with patriotism. Overall, the game follows Naked Snake after he is tasked by the CIA to rescue a scientist from the USSR. However, shortly after, his previous mentor betrays him, revealing that she has defected to the USSR. What then follows is nothing short of an epic video gaming experience. In the end, anyone who plays this game to celebrate the Fourth of July is “a true patriot.”

2. The XCOM Series

Next, the XCOM series sets players up with a classic scenario they should be all too familiar with. For anyone who has watched the movie Independence Day, XCOM thrusts the world into a similar situation. Aliens have invaded Earth, and it’s up to a ragtag group of heroes to make sure humanity lives another day. While there isn’t any direct nod to patriotism, the game gives off such a similar vibe to Independence Day that it is impossible to separate the two. In a way, fighting for the freedom of humanity from the aliens mimics the fight for independence all those years ago. When playing XCOM, make sure to turn some aliens into fireworks when playing this game on the Fourth of July.

1. Codename S.T.E.A.M

Finally, Codename S.T.E.A.M is last on the list and one that many people have probably forgotten. Codename S.T.E.A.M is a turn-based strategy game for the 3DS, with some third-person shooter elements. A hint at what makes the game so patriotic is in the game’s Japanese subtitle, Lincoln vs. Aliens. In this game, players will control a squad of steampunk warriors to repel an alien invasion. Gameplay-wise, the game is very similar to something like Valkyria Chronicles. This game is just oozing with patriotic energy, with the main cast traveling in an airship called Lady Liberty and Abraham Lincoln himself fighting aliens on multiple occasions. Any game that places Abraham Lincoln in a massive mech called A.B.E and has him fight aliens will be a perfect game to play on the Fourth of July.