Games About Death and Grief

Life isn’t all just fun and games. Any gamer will know how immersing yourself in a virtual world can provide relief, solace and even moments of catharsis. In recent times, video games have evolved to help people process their feelings around death and grief. Where some people turn to books, movies and tv shows to navigate their grief, others might look to video games. Here are 4 video games about death and grief that might provide the healing or insight that you’ve been looking for.

A Mortician’s Tale (2017)

In the past, standard video games have often portrayed death as a punishment. But in A Mortician's Tale, the player controls a young funeral director who prepares bodies for cremation and burial. You can place bones into a machine to crush them and complete the cremation process, or even massage parts of the body so the embalming chemicals are evenly distributed. After the body is prepared, there is a funeral. This game places a strong emphasis on the importance of the mourning process. It’s a refreshing look at death that hasn’t really been executed in this space before.

Available on Microsoft Windows, iOS and macOS.

Watch the trailer here.

Gris (2018)

The title of this video game refers to the name of the protagonist, a young woman called Gris, as well as the Spanish word for the colour grey. Gris takes place in a young woman’s subconscious as she deals with her own grief. Players can complete puzzles, platforming sequences, and optional skill-based challenges that appear as more of Gris’ world is brought to the screen.

The game is made up of delicate art, detailed animations and simple control reminders that are illustrated through universal icons. As there is minimal text, the game can be enjoyed by anyone (regardless of their spoken language), plus players can listen to a beautiful score while they play. 

Available on macOS, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Playstation 4 and Android.

Watch the trailer here.

Spiritfarer (2020)

Spiritfarer follows a spirit guide called Stella who is tasked with helping other spirits move on to the next realm. Spiritfarer is not scary or dangerous – players can go at their own pace and can have the pleasure of listening to its warm soundtrack as they progress. 

Players are also encouraged to say goodbye to spirits along the way, which is a touching note on letting go and accepting death in all its forms. You can unwind for hours into a calming and relaxing gameplay.

Available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, macOS and Google Stadia.

Watch the trailer here.

To The Moon (2011)

In To The Moon, players experience the life of a man on his deathbed. It follows two doctors who give people another chance to live, but plot twist – only in their patients’ own minds. The doctors perform a risky operation on people on their deathbeds, so that they may fulfil the things they wish they had done during their lives, but which they never had a chance to do.

The result is a heartwarming story about an elderly man called Johnny whose last wish is – as the title suggests – to go to the moon. As the player steps back in time, they learn more about Johnny’s life. This unique story-driven game also has a highly acclaimed original soundtrack.

Available on Windows, OS X, Linux, Android, iOS and Nintendo Switch.

Watch the trailer here.

Wrap Up

There you have it – 4 games that are changing the way people view and process death and grief. Not really a video game person? These games don’t (necessarily) require any gaming equipment – all you’ll need is a compatible device and a willingness to try something new.

If you are one of the 50% of Australian adults who is yet to write a Will, you can write one in less time than it takes to make it through a level of any of these games. Start today at willed.com.au.