The Hero’s Journey in Video Games: A Timeless Narrative Structure

The Hero’s Journey, or monomyth, has captivated audiences for centuries, weaving a universal narrative thread that transcends cultural boundaries.

Joseph Campbell, in his groundbreaking 1949 book The Hero with a Thousand Faces, identified common patterns across the world’s myths, legends, and stories. These patterns represent the archetypal hero’s journey, where a seemingly ordinary individual embarks on an adventure, faces significant trials, overcomes tremendous odds, and emerges transformed. This narrative structure, with its cyclical flow, speaks to the human condition and our collective experience of growth, struggle, and transformation.

In the modern age, the Hero’s Journey has found a natural home in the world of video games. Video games, with their emphasis on progression, challenge, and player involvement, mirror the essence of the monomyth in a unique and immersive way. Through interactive storytelling, players themselves embody the role of the hero, experiencing firsthand the challenges, victories, and personal growth of the protagonist.

This article delves deeply into how video games have utilized the Hero’s Journey structure, dissecting its stages and providing extensive examples from beloved franchises such as The Legend of Zelda, Mass Effect, Final Fantasy, Dark Souls, and The Witcher. By examining the interplay between narrative design and gameplay, we uncover how this structure not only enriches the gaming experience but also provides an emotional and intellectual journey for players.

The Structure of the Hero’s Journey

Joseph Campbell broke down the Hero’s Journey into three overarching phases—Departure, Initiation, and Return—each containing specific stages that heroes typically navigate. Although not every story or game follows this model exactly, and some might omit or reorder stages, the Hero’s Journey provides a consistent foundation for the storytelling experience in video games.

Departure

1. The Ordinary World
2. The Call to Adventure
3. Refusal of the Call
4. Meeting the Mentor
5. Crossing the Threshold

Initiation

1. Tests, Allies, and Enemies
2. Approach to the Inmost Cave
3. The Ordeal
4. The Reward

Return

1. The Road Back
2. The Resurrection
3. Return with the Elixir

In video games, this structure often forms the backbone of the narrative, providing players with a sense of direction and progression. Whether through quests, level design, or character arcs, developers frequently incorporate the Hero’s Journey to enhance storytelling and player immersion. Let’s explore each stage in more detail, focusing on how they manifest in video games, while adding examples and commentary.

1. The Ordinary World

The Ordinary World serves as the starting point of the hero’s journey. Here, the protagonist exists in a state of normalcy, often in a peaceful or mundane environment, unaware of the extraordinary events that are about to unfold. In video games, this stage is frequently used to introduce the player to the world, characters, and game mechanics.

Example: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

In Ocarina of Time, players begin in the Kokiri Forest, where Link lives among the Kokiri, a childlike race that never ages. This serene environment is isolated from the rest of Hyrule, reflecting the peace and innocence of the Ordinary World. The player is slowly introduced to the game’s controls and basic gameplay mechanics, symbolizing Link’s initial state of ignorance and simplicity before the grand adventure begins.

Example: Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 presents a grittier take on the Ordinary World. Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, is introduced in a harsh, snow-covered wilderness. The early stages of the game reveal a simpler life of survival and outlaw duties. The Ordinary World here is tinged with tension, as the gang is fleeing from trouble, hinting at the greater adventure to come.

By establishing this baseline of normalcy, video games allow players to connect with the protagonist’s life before they are thrust into adventure. This creates a stark contrast between the Ordinary World and the challenges that await, amplifying the sense of growth and transformation later in the story.

2. The Call to Adventure

The Call to Adventure is the moment when the protagonist is presented with an opportunity or challenge that sets them on the path to becoming a hero. This stage often serves as the inciting event, pulling the character out of their comfort zone and propelling the narrative forward. In video games, this stage is usually tied to a significant plot development or quest.

Example: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Geralt of Rivia receives his Call to Adventure when he learns that Ciri, his adopted daughter, is being pursued by the mysterious and deadly Wild Hunt. This revelation sets Geralt on a quest that spans multiple regions and kingdoms, forcing him to take action in order to protect Ciri and stop a cosmic threat. The Call to Adventure is not just a physical journey for Geralt but also an emotional one, as he reconnects with important figures from his past.

Example: Halo: Combat Evolved

In Halo: Combat Evolved, the Call to Adventure occurs when Master Chief, a genetically enhanced super-soldier, awakens from cryo-sleep to find that the human spaceship Pillar of Autumn is under attack by the alien Covenant. Forced into battle, Master Chief takes command, and thus begins his legendary journey to protect humanity from annihilation. The inciting event—a Covenant ambush—immediately thrusts both the player and the protagonist into the larger conflict.

In many video games, the Call to Adventure is closely tied to the player’s immersion in the game world. Whether it’s a sudden threat or the discovery of a mysterious power, the Call to Adventure pushes the protagonist and the player out of the familiar and into the unknown.

3. Refusal of the Call

In classic storytelling, the hero may initially refuse the call due to fear, doubt, or a reluctance to leave the Ordinary World. This stage represents the hero’s hesitation and the internal conflict they must overcome to continue their journey. In video games, this stage might manifest as dialogue or cutscenes where the protagonist expresses reluctance or struggles with their decision.

Example: Final Fantasy VII

Cloud Strife, the main protagonist of Final Fantasy VII, initially shows reluctance when asked to join AVALANCHE, an eco-terrorist group fighting against the powerful Shinra Corporation. Cloud’s apathy and his mercenary attitude reflect his inner conflict and unwillingness to become emotionally involved in the world’s problems. However, as the stakes rise and personal ties are formed, Cloud reluctantly steps into the role of a hero.

Example: The Last of Us

In The Last of Us, Joel’s refusal to take Ellie on the cross-country journey represents his hesitation. Haunted by the death of his daughter years earlier, Joel is reluctant to form any emotional attachments. However, his growing bond with Ellie forces him to overcome this resistance, and he eventually accepts the burden of protecting her in a post-apocalyptic world.

The Refusal of the Call is a crucial moment that humanizes the protagonist, showcasing their vulnerabilities and internal struggles. It creates tension and sets the stage for character development, as the hero must ultimately decide to push forward despite their fears.

4. Meeting the Mentor

At this stage, the hero encounters a mentor figure who provides guidance, wisdom, or a magical item that aids them in their journey. In video games, mentors often appear as NPCs who offer advice, training, or essential tools that enable the player to progress through the game. These mentors often embody a blend of narrative significance and gameplay mechanics.

Example: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

In Breath of the Wild, the ghost of King Rhoam serves as Link’s mentor. Early in the game, the spirit of the former king introduces Link to the world of Hyrule and its history, providing context for his quest to defeat Calamity Ganon. King Rhoam offers Link the paraglider, a crucial item that allows him to explore the vast world, thus marking the shift from tutorial to open-world gameplay. This moment exemplifies how mentors in video games often serve both narrative and mechanical functions.

Example: Mass Effect 2

In Mass Effect 2, the Illusive Man acts as a mentor of sorts to Commander Shepard, providing him with the resources and information needed to stop the Collectors. Although the Illusive Man’s motives are ambiguous, his role is crucial in setting Shepard on the path to assembling a team and preparing for the suicide mission. The player’s interactions with the Illusive Man highlight the mentor’s dual role of both aiding and testing the hero.

Mentors in video games serve as vital figures, offering players not only narrative guidance but also tangible gameplay advantages. They often represent the transfer of knowledge or power, equipping both the protagonist and the player with the tools they need to succeed.

5. Crossing the Threshold

Crossing the Threshold represents the hero’s transition from the Ordinary World to the extraordinary realm where the majority of their adventure takes place. In video games, this often marks the shift from the introductory stages to the main quest, where the player enters new, dangerous environments and begins to face more challenging enemies or puzzles.

Example: Dark Souls

In Dark Souls, after the player escapes the Undead Asylum and arrives at Firelink Shrine, they officially enter the world of Lordran, a vast and dangerous land filled with formidable enemies and cryptic lore. The moment the player crosses into this new realm, the game opens up, offering a wide variety of paths and challenges. The Crossing of the Threshold here is both literal and metaphorical, as the player steps into the unknown.

Example: Assassin’s Creed II

In Assassin’s Creed II, Ezio Auditore’s journey from Florence to the city of Monteriggioni represents the Crossing of the Threshold. Having just witnessed the murder of his family, Ezio flees to Monteriggioni, where he begins training as an assassin under the guidance of his uncle, Mario. This transition marks the moment Ezio fully commits to his path of vengeance, leaving behind his ordinary life and stepping into the world of the Assassins.

The Crossing of the Threshold often serves as a powerful moment in video games, as it signifies the true beginning of the adventure. This transition is frequently accompanied by a change in gameplay mechanics, open-world exploration, or the introduction of new threats, giving players a sense of progression and excitement.

6. Tests, Allies, and Enemies

Once the hero has crossed the threshold, they encounter a series of challenges, make allies, and face enemies. This stage is one of the most expansive in video games, as it encompasses the bulk of the gameplay experience, including combat, exploration, puzzle-solving, and character interactions.

Example: Horizon Zero Dawn

In Horizon Zero Dawn, protagonist Aloy embarks on a quest to discover the secrets of her past and the world’s robotic creatures. Throughout the game, she faces numerous tests, including battles against deadly machines, political intrigue, and uncovering hidden truths about the world’s history. Aloy also forms alliances with various tribes and characters, such as the Nora and the Carja, while contending with dangerous enemies like the Eclipse cult.

Example: Persona 5

In Persona 5, the player navigates both the supernatural world of the Metaverse and the daily life of a Tokyo high school student. As the Phantom Thieves, the protagonist and their allies must infiltrate the Palaces of corrupt individuals and confront powerful Shadows. Simultaneously, they build relationships with friends and confidants, gaining new abilities and advantages for combat. This duality of tests—both social and supernatural—creates a rich, multifaceted experience for the player.

The Tests, Allies, and Enemies stage is where the bulk of a video game’s gameplay unfolds. Here, the player hones their skills, builds relationships with NPCs, and faces increasingly difficult challenges. This section emphasizes the hero’s growth through their interactions with the world and the characters around them.

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave

The hero approaches the central conflict or most dangerous part of their journey. In video games, this often takes the form of preparing for a major boss battle, dungeon, or pivotal story mission. The player may need to gather specific items, train, or strategize before confronting the central challenge.

Example: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

In Breath of the Wild, the Approach to the Inmost Cave is represented by Link’s preparation to face Calamity Ganon in Hyrule Castle. Throughout the game, Link must defeat the four Divine Beasts, recover his lost memories, and acquire powerful weapons and abilities. The looming confrontation with Ganon requires the player to gather all of these elements before entering the castle, where the final battle awaits.

Example: Bloodborne

In Bloodborne, the player’s approach to the Nightmare of Mensis—one of the final, most challenging areas in the game—serves as the Approach to the Inmost Cave. The Nightmare is filled with grotesque enemies and eldritch horrors, requiring the player to be fully prepared both in terms of skill and equipment before entering. The difficulty of this section emphasizes the danger of the journey’s climax.

This stage in video games builds anticipation and tension, as the player prepares for the most critical part of their journey. The Approach to the Inmost Cave often serves as a moment of reflection, as the player assesses their progress and prepares for the challenges ahead.

8. The Ordeal

The Ordeal is the hero’s greatest challenge, often a life-or-death moment that tests their resolve and abilities to the fullest. In video games, this is frequently represented by a climactic boss battle or a pivotal story event that serves as the turning point in the hero’s journey.

Example: Shadow of the Colossus

In Shadow of the Colossus, each battle against a colossus could be considered an ordeal, but the final encounter against Malus stands as the ultimate test. The player must navigate treacherous terrain and use all of their knowledge and skills acquired throughout the game to defeat Malus. This climactic battle not only challenges the player mechanically but also emotionally, as the consequences of Wander’s quest become more apparent.

Example: God of War (2018)

In God of War, the final confrontation with Baldur serves as Kratos’ Ordeal. This battle is not only a test of Kratos’ combat abilities but also a culmination of his internal struggles as a father and a former god of war. The battle with Baldur is intense and emotional, representing Kratos’ final hurdle in his journey toward redemption and peace with his past.

The Ordeal in video games often represents the most challenging and dramatic part of the narrative. It serves as a climactic moment where the hero—and the player—must overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

9. The Reward

After successfully completing the Ordeal, the hero is rewarded with a treasure, knowledge, or personal growth. In video games, this stage often marks a significant plot revelation, the acquisition of a powerful item, or the protagonist’s emotional or moral growth.

Example: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

After defeating the final boss, Ganondorf, in Ocarina of Time, Link is rewarded with the restoration of peace to the land of Hyrule. More importantly, he gains the wisdom and maturity of a hero who has faced and overcome great evil. The reward here is both tangible and symbolic, representing Link’s growth and the fulfillment of his destiny as the Hero of Time.

Example: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

In The Witcher 3, Geralt’s reward comes in the form of reuniting with Ciri and preventing the apocalyptic events of the Wild Hunt. The emotional reward of reuniting with his surrogate daughter, combined with the satisfaction of protecting the world from the Wild Hunt, provides a powerful conclusion to Geralt’s personal journey. The game also offers multiple endings, each with its own form of reward, depending on the player’s choices throughout the narrative.

The Reward stage in video games often provides the player with a sense of accomplishment and closure. Whether it’s a powerful item, a new ability, or an emotional payoff, the reward serves as validation for the player’s efforts throughout the game.

10. The Road Back

The Road Back represents the hero’s return to the Ordinary World, but it is often fraught with new challenges or dangers. In video games, this stage might involve a final mission, a change in the game world, or the consequences of the player’s choices.

Example: Red Dead Redemption 2

In Red Dead Redemption 2, after completing the majority of his missions, Arthur Morgan attempts to leave behind his violent life as an outlaw. However, the Road Back is not easy, as Arthur must still contend with the internal betrayal within the Van der Linde gang, as well as his deteriorating health. His attempt to make amends and find redemption is constantly challenged by the violent world around him, reflecting the difficulty of the hero’s return to normalcy.

Example: Final Fantasy XV

In Final Fantasy XV, after Noctis defeats Ardyn and restores light to the world, he must make the ultimate sacrifice by offering his life to save his kingdom. The Road Back is tragic, as Noctis’ return to the throne results in his own death. The game’s bittersweet ending reflects the price of heroism, and the Road Back serves as a somber reminder that not all victories come without loss.

The Road Back in video games often adds depth to the hero’s journey, showing that even after the Ordeal, challenges still remain. It reinforces the theme that the hero’s journey is not over until they have truly returned to their Ordinary World, often changed by their experiences.

11. The Resurrection

The Resurrection is the hero’s final challenge, a climactic moment where they must face one last trial. In video games, this often takes the form of a final boss battle or a crucial decision that will determine the outcome of the story. The hero is “resurrected” by emerging from this trial transformed, ready to complete their journey.

Example: Dark Souls

In Dark Souls, the final battle against Gwyn, Lord of Cinder, represents the Resurrection. The player has faced countless trials and bosses leading up to this moment, and the battle with Gwyn is both physically and emotionally exhausting. Defeating Gwyn allows the player to either link the fire and prolong the Age of Fire or let the flame die out, ushering in the Age of Darkness. This final choice reflects the player’s resurrection, as they determine the fate of the world.

Example: The Last of Us Part II

In The Last of Us Part II, Ellie’s final confrontation with Abby represents her Resurrection. After a long and bloody journey fueled by revenge, Ellie chooses to spare Abby’s life in the end, signifying her emotional resurrection. This moment is a turning point for Ellie, as she lets go of her vengeance and begins the process of healing. The final decision to walk away from violence marks Ellie’s transformation and emotional growth.

The Resurrection in video games often serves as the final test of the protagonist’s resolve and growth. It is the moment where the hero must face their ultimate fear or challenge and emerge victorious or changed in a profound way.

12. Return with the Elixir

In the final stage of the Hero’s Journey, the hero returns to the Ordinary World with the Elixir, a treasure, or knowledge that benefits their community. In video games, this often takes the form of an epilogue or post-game content that reflects the changes the hero has undergone.

Example: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

In The Witcher 3, Geralt’s return to his peaceful life, after reuniting with Ciri and defeating the Wild Hunt, represents the Return with the Elixir. Geralt’s journey has brought peace to the world and allowed him to reconnect with his loved ones. The Elixir in this case is both the literal peace he has restored and the emotional closure he has found with Ciri.

Example: God of War (2018)

In God of War, Kratos and Atreus’ return to their home after defeating Baldur represents their Return with the Elixir. The knowledge they gained throughout their journey, particularly the revelation of Atreus’ true identity as Loki, serves as the Elixir. The father-son bond that has strengthened throughout their journey is another form of the Elixir, as they both emerge from their adventure changed and closer than before.

The Return with the Elixir in video games provides a sense of closure and completion. It allows players to reflect on the hero’s journey and the impact it has had on the game world, the characters, and themselves.

Conclusion

The Hero’s Journey is a timeless narrative framework that has been masterfully adapted into video games. Through the stages of Departure, Initiation, and Return, players experience a powerful narrative arc that resonates with universal themes of growth, transformation, and triumph. Iconic games like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, and God of War exemplify how the monomyth enhances both storytelling and gameplay, offering players an immersive experience that mirrors the hero’s internal and external struggles.

As video games continue to evolve, developers will undoubtedly find new ways to incorporate the Hero’s Journey into their narratives. This structure not only provides a satisfying and engaging framework for storytelling but also allows players to experience the hero’s transformation on a deeply personal level. The Hero’s Journey in video games offers more than just entertainment; it offers an exploration of the human experience, allowing players to embark on their own journeys of growth and self-discovery.