10 Video Game Enemies You Felt REALLY Bad For Killing

1. Most Human Enemies - The Last Of Us Part II

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Naughty Dog

The brilliant paradox of The Last of Us Part II is that it's such a mechanically sublime video game from a gameplay perspective, and yet, it's also such a thoroughly miserable experience which actively critiques the meaning behind that oh-so-brilliant gameplay.

Most of your encounters with human characters throughout the game are deeply unpleasant, and performing a kill rarely qualifies as satisfying, yet alone fun.

There are certainly characters you encounter throughout the game who have gravely wronged either Ellie or Abby, but from start to finish, taking a life in this game feels horrible.

Killing is basically designed to be as stomach-churningly offputting as possible: NPCs let out long, blood-curdling screams as they pass on, and you'll often hear their comrades - their friends, even - fearfully call their names after you've slaughtered them.

It makes for a uniquely upsetting experience, and ensures players feel the full visceral extent of their actions.

Given that Naughty Dog has been widely criticised in the past for committing the sin of "ludonarrative dissonance" - with the Uncharted games pitting their breezy, charming story against slaughter-heavy gameplay - it's fitting that their latest masterpiece address it head-on.

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Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.