America is celebrating 250 years of independence this year, and if you are looking to mark the occasion with some gaming, you don't have to settle for just the local fireworks display. While the catalog of games centered on the American struggle for independence is relatively small, there are five standout titles that capture the spirit of the holiday.
1. Liberty or Death (1993)
Developed by Stieg Hedlund and his team at Koei Tecmo’s North American subsidiary, this title is a deep dive into the political and military complexities of the Revolutionary War. Players take command as either George Washington or Thomas Gage to secure the thirteen colonies. Be prepared to spend significant time managing data, as the gameplay requires close attention to a variety of statistics. It even supports single-controller multiplayer, provided you have a friend who enjoys menu-heavy strategy.
2. Assassin's Creed 3 (2012)
This entry brought the franchise to the Colonies, casting players as Connor, an Assassin caught in the conflict between Templar forces and the nascent United States. Beyond the main campaign, the game offers a unique look at the era through its The Tyranny of King Washington expansion, which explores an alternate history where a corrupted George Washington declares himself king.
3. Empire: Total War (2009)
For those who prefer grand strategy, Empire: Total War features a dedicated campaign focused on the Americas, starting with Jamestown and moving through the Revolutionary War. It provides a balanced experience of turn-based diplomacy, economics, and espionage alongside real-time military engagements, including the pivotal Battle of Brandywine Creek.
4. Saints Row 4 (2013)
Independence is also about the freedom to imagine the impossible. Saints Row 4: Re-Elected, currently available on PC and Switch, offers a wild, non-historical take on the concept of American freedom, making it a lighthearted alternative for your holiday gaming session.
5. Fireworks Mania (2020)
If you want to end your July 4th celebration with a bang, Laumania’s Fireworks Mania is an explosive simulator that lets you experiment with physics-based fireworks. Whether you create a perfectly choreographed display or accidentally ignite your virtual garage, it is a fittingly chaotic way to commemorate the day.