Oliver Mitchell

Unleashing Creativity: The 7 Most Experimental Capcom Games

Capcom, a renowned video game developer and publisher, has always been known to push the boundaries of game design and storytelling. Their experimental approach has led to the creation of unforgettable franchises and even groundbreaking genres. In this article, we'll take a look at the 7 most experimental Capcom games, celebrating their creativity and the impact they've made on the world of gaming.

1. Forgotten Worlds (1988)

Forgotten Worlds is a side-scrolling shooter that allowed Capcom to experiment with an innovative control scheme known as the "rotary joystick." This allowed players to control the direction they shoot in a 360-degree range while moving their character in the traditional side-scrolling style. The game featured a unique setting and mythos, combining elements of fantasy and science fiction, making it a standout title among other shooters of its time. Forgotten Worlds' experimentation with controls and setting laid the groundwork for future Capcom titles.

2. Ghosts & Goblins (1985)

Ghosts & Goblins is a notorious platformer known for its brutally difficult gameplay and its unique horror-fantasy setting. Players controlled the knight Arthur, who must traverse a haunted landscape to save the princess from the clutches of an evil demon. The game's difficulty came from its unforgiving level design and punishing enemy encounters, which required trial and error for the player to progress. Ghosts & Goblins' experimental approach to difficulty and blending of horror and fantasy elements made it a true classic.

3. Resident Evil 2 (1998)

Resident Evil 2 took the survival horror genre to new heights, experimenting with storytelling by featuring two playable characters, each with their own separate campaign. Players could choose to play as Leon S. Kennedy, a rookie cop, or Claire Redfield, a college student searching for her brother. These separate stories showcased different gameplay elements, character abilities, and narrative beats, providing a unique gameplay experience. Resident Evil 2's innovative approach to storytelling and gameplay would influence future entries in the series, as well as other survival horror titles.

4. Devil May Cry (2001)

Devil May Cry is an action-adventure game that marries exhilarating combat with a dark, gothic atmosphere. The game introduced Dante, a demon-hunting mercenary, in a stylish hack-and-slash adventure. Devil May Cry's emphasis on fast-paced, stylish combat while retaining key elements of horror and exploration in its level design made it a standout title. The game's experimental pairing of action and horror themes led to the birth of a successful and influential franchise.

5. Ōkami (2006)

Ōkami is an action-adventure game that presents a unique visual style inspired by traditional Japanese sumi-e paintings. Players took on the role of Amaterasu, a goddess in the form of a white wolf, who must restore the world by using divine powers called "brush techniques." The game's distinctive art style and innovative gameplay mechanics, where players used a celestial brush to interact with the world and battle enemies, set Ōkami apart from other titles in the genre. This visually striking masterpiece is frequently regarded as one of Capcom's most experimental games.

6. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney (2001)

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney introduced a groundbreaking blend of adventure and visual novel gameplay that was unlike anything seen before. Players took on the role of a rookie defense attorneys, navigating a complex legal system and solving tense courtroom battles using evidence and logic. The game's unique narrative and gameplay structure, featuring a series of interconnected cases, allowed for a deep sense of immersion. Phoenix Wright's experimental approach to storytelling and gameplay mechanics has earned the series a dedicated fan base.

7. Zombie Cafe (2011)

Zombie Cafe was a quirky mobile game that combined elements of restaurant simulation and zombie fiction. Players managed a successful cafe, working with a team of zombie employees to collect ingredients, cook dishes, and serve customers. The game's humorous take on the popular zombie genre and addictive, time-management gameplay distinguished Zombie Cafe from more traditional mobile games. This experimental mobile title showcased Capcom's willingness to take risks and explore new gaming formats.

Conclusion: The Best Experimental Capcom Game

Each of these experimental Capcom games has made a significant impact on the gaming industry by pushing the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and visual presentation. However, based on user reviews, Ōkami stands out as the most exceptional due to its masterful blend of stunning visuals, rich narrative, and innovative gameplay mechanics. This captivating title has inspired gamers worldwide and cemented its place in Capcom's legacy of innovation.