Shillelaghs & Shamrocks: A Guide to the Most Enchanting Irish Video Games

Ireland has many storytellers, a deep history of folklore, and beautiful landscapes. It surprises me that not many video games are set in Ireland. Lots of games use Celtic myths for monster ideas, but they usually happen in made-up worlds, not real Ireland. The “Land of Saints and Scholars” is not often used.

But the games I talk about are different. They feel Irish, and they use Irish styles and places. Even if the places in the games are not real or clear, they are still Irish.

Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla (Wrath of the Druids)

In the expansive world of Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, the DLC “Wrath of the Druids” takes players on a journey to Ireland. This expansion allows you to explore the country’s beautiful, mystical version during the 9th century. As Eivor, a Viking raider, you will delve into the ancient druidic culture, encounter legendary Gaelic kings, and unravel the mysteries of an ancient druidic cult known as the Children of Danu. The game is rich in historical and mythological details, providing an immersive experience of Ireland’s past.

Folklore

Folklore is an action-adventure game released for the PlayStation 3. Set in the fictional village of Doolin on Ireland’s rugged coast, the game draws heavily from Irish mythology. Players alternate between two characters, Ellen and Keats, who find themselves embroiled in a mystery involving the supernatural realm. With gameplay that involves capturing and utilizing the abilities of mythical creatures, Folklore offers a dark and enchanting narrative that celebrates the mystique of Irish folklore.

Clive Barker’s Undying

Clive Barker’s Undying brings horror to the Irish setting. This first-person shooter game takes place in the early 1920s on a cursed island off the coast of Ireland. You play as Patrick Galloway, a man skilled in both weapons and the occult, who must investigate the strange happenings and dark secrets of the ancestral home of his friend. The game combines gothic horror with Celtic mythology, creating a spine-chilling, haunting, captivating atmosphere.

Rainbow Riches Slot

Rainbow Riches Slot is a popular video slot game that captures the essence of Irish luck and charm. This game is all about the classic Irish theme, complete with leprechauns, pots of gold, and rainbows. Players spin the reels, hoping to land on special symbols that trigger bonus rounds. The game is simple to play and offers a nice experience with its colourful graphics and cheerful Irish music.

Before you try Rainbow Riches you must know it does not have a story like the other games. But it still feels very Irish. It uses lucky symbols and green colours a lot. People who like slots and Ireland might enjoy this game. It’s easy to understand and play.

If Found…

If Found… is an indie visual novel that stands out for its storytelling and emotional depth. The game is set in 1993 in the small town of Achill Island, Ireland. It follows the story of Kasio, a young transgender woman, as she navigates her relationships with family and friends and the challenges of finding her identity. Through expressive hand-drawn art and a compelling narrative, the game paints an intimate portrait of life in rural Ireland, touching on themes of community, connection, and erasure.

The Little Acre

The Little Acre is a charming point-and-click adventure game set in 1950s Ireland. The story follows Aidan and his daughter, Lily, as they search for their missing family member. What begins as a simple quest soon leads to a fantastical world filled with puzzles and peculiar creatures. The hand-drawn animation brings the Irish countryside to life, complete with a quaint cottage and lush greenery that captures the heart of rural Ireland. The Little Acre is a delightful journey combining heartwarming storytelling with Irish folklore’s enchantment.

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So May It Be: A Witch Dating Simulator

This game offers a light-hearted and magical experience set in modern-day Ireland. In this visual novel, players take on the role of a young witch attending a three-day festival. You’ll have the chance to mingle with other witches, cast spells, and perhaps find romance. The game showcases contemporary Irish culture with a whimsical twist, blending the mundane with the magical in a setting that celebrates both the old and new aspects of Irish society.

Clan O’Conall and the Crown of the Stag

This is an action-platformer inspired by Celtic mythology and Irish folklore. Players can switch between three siblings of the O’Conall clan, each with unique abilities, as they fight to save their father from the clutches of the Mother of Demons. Set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes and ancient ruins, the game features hand-crafted art that pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Ireland. With its engaging combat system and puzzle-solving elements, Clan O’Conall immerses players in a mythic quest through a beautifully rendered interpretation of Ireland’s mystical past.

Wrapping Up

Each of these games offers a window into Ireland’s culture, history, and mythology. From the rolling green hills and ancient ruins to the tales of druids and supernatural beings, players can experience the charm and intrigue of Ireland through these virtual adventures. Whether you’re battling through Viking invasions, uncovering folkloric mysteries, surviving gothic horrors, or exploring personal narratives, these games capture the essence of the Irish spirit.