Although robots have had a significant influence in popular culture lately, there are a few titles that stand out against the rest as great titles. Here are some fantastic video games that feature robots predominately as either main characters or as main story elements.

Mechwarrior Online

Since its first conception by parent company FASA in 1984, the Battletech Universe has been a force for robots in media. At the time of its first creation is borrowed heavily from Japanese Anime, particularly Macross and gundam Wing, but quickly set itself apart artistically and creatively from those creative properties becoming a unique name all to itself. Simulation games, tactics games, two lines of miniatures for tabletop wargaming and a library’s worth of fictional novels all set the background to the current popular Mechwarrior Online. A simulation game where players pilot Battlemechs, up to 100 tons humaniod machines of war bristling with weapons. Each Battlemech can be configured and customized prior to battle and matches are played player versus player over the internet. Mechwarrior Online is available exclusively on PC.

Titan Fall

A recent invention from game company Respawn entertainment and published by Electronic Arts, Titan Fall is another simulation game featuring drivable robots, in this case Titans. Players participate in twelve man player versus player matches of combat, scoring points for kills on the opposing team. Each player has the option of playing as a foot soldier or calling down a Titan to pilot, or to operate remotely as they continue on foot. Players gain experience for winning that is used to unlock different equipment and titans. Available exclusively for Microsoft Windows and Xbox One.

Armored Core

Another franchise deep roots is Armored Core, a title with fifteen titles under its belt across 6 different platforms. Although aspects change, the series keeps the player as a mercenary taking different contracts. Earning income through completion of objectives and jobs, the player uses money gained in order to upgrade his Armored Core (robot) and purchase new equipment and chassis. The games strengths have always been the high level of customization accessible to players, especially in earlier titles where that level of customization was unheard of. Armored Core still holds it’s own on game play among more modern titles.