Video games have long been a source of entertainment and escapism for millions of players worldwide. However, lurking within this realm of pixels and virtual adventures are legends of cursed video games that have captured the imagination of gamers and skeptics alike. These tales tell of strange occurrences, inexplicable phenomena, and even tragic events linked to certain games. Join us as we delve into the chilling stories behind the top five cursed video games in history and explore the mysteries that surround them.
1. Polybius: The Arcade Enigma
In the fall of 1981, amidst the colorful array of popular arcade games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, a mysterious and potentially dangerous black box game called Polybius emerged in arcades around Portland, Oregon. Its geometric patterns and vibrant shapes hypnotized players, leading to rumors that it triggered memory loss, seizures, blackouts, and hallucinations. Some even claimed that two teenagers vanished after playing the game. Adding to the intrigue were reports of men in black suits periodically servicing the machine, sparking speculation about government involvement and the CIA’s infamous MKUltra mind control program.
Allegedly, Polybius’s addictive gameplay and subliminal messages led government agents to extract data from the arcade machines, further fueling the belief that something sinister was at play. However, concrete evidence for the existence of the game remains elusive. The first public record of Polybius appeared in 2000 on CoinOp.org, where a single image of the start screen provided the basis for the game’s myths. The copyright date attributed to “Sinneslöschen Inc.” – meaning “mind erasing” in German – and the lack of official records led the FBI to deny its existence.
While the legend of Polybius continues to fascinate and intrigue, many believe it to be nothing more than an urban legend. Reports of gamers falling ill while playing other popular arcade games and government agents using arcade cabinets for surveillance provide more rational explanations for the alleged phenomena associated with Polybius. Despite its apparent haunting of 1980s arcades, the puzzle surrounding Polybius remains unsolved, firmly rooted in the realm of gaming’s most notorious urban legends.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
Released in 2000, “The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask” is not inherently cursed, but its dark and twisted storyline has given rise to a disturbing urban legend known as the “Ben Drowned” saga. The legend revolves around a haunted copy of the game, with the player encountering glitches, distorted graphics, and a malevolent presence known as “Ben.” Finally, Creepypastas and alleged firsthand accounts have fueled the belief that an otherworldly curse resides within this game, haunting those who dare to play it.
3. Sad Satan: The Deep Web Nightmare
“Sad Satan” is an infamous horror game that allegedly originated from the depths of the dark web. Its gameplay is filled with unsettling imagery and disturbing audio, evoking a feeling of unease and dread. The game gained notoriety due to its association with illegal activities, unsettling content, and claims of hidden messages containing horrifying imagery. Likewise, the origins and creators of “Sad Satan” remain a mystery, adding to its enigmatic and cursed reputation.
4. “Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem”
Initially released for the Nintendo GameCube in 2002, “Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem” is known for its innovative sanity meter, which gave the player a very good idea of how close his/her character is to losing his/her mind and go crazy. The game’s narrative, which spanned across different eras, delved into Lovecraftian horrors and twisted realities. Reports of players experiencing unexplained phenomena outside the game, such as whispers and hallucinations, have led to the belief that “Eternal Darkness” possesses a curse that blurs the line between virtual and real.
5. “Call of Cthulhu: Dark Corners of the Earth”
Based on H.P. Lovecraft’s mythos, “Call of Cthulhu: Dark Corners of the Earth” is a first-person horror game that immerses players in a world of cosmic horror. Its cursed reputation stems from the troubled development, with rumors of supernatural occurrences and a string of unfortunate events surrounding the game’s release. From bizarre accidents to alleged supernatural encounters, the curse surrounding “Call of Cthulhu” has become a cautionary tale for developers and players alike.
These five cursed video games have achieved notoriety through their eerie themes, unsettling gameplay mechanics, and the legends that surround them. While skepticism and speculation persist, their impact on players’ minds and the gaming community is undeniable. Whether due to psychological manipulation, real-life tragedies, or unexplained phenomena, these games have left an enduring mark on gaming history and continue to captivate those brave enough to explore their haunting realms. Remember, the next time you pick up a controller, be wary of the curses that may lurk within the virtual worlds.
