How Many Games Can You Play as a Redshirt? And Why Do They Always Die First?

How Many Games Can You Play as a Redshirt? And Why Do They Always Die First?

The concept of the “redshirt” has become a staple in popular culture, particularly in the realm of science fiction. Originating from the original Star Trek series, the term refers to the expendable crew members who often meet their demise early in the episode, usually while wearing red uniforms. But what if we took this concept beyond the screen and into the world of gaming? How many games can you play as a redshirt, and what does it mean to embody this role in a digital universe? Let’s dive into this fascinating topic, exploring the implications, mechanics, and philosophical questions that arise when you step into the shoes of a redshirt.


The Redshirt Archetype in Gaming

The redshirt archetype is not just limited to Star Trek; it has permeated various forms of media, including video games. In gaming, the redshirt often represents the expendable character, the one who is there to serve a purpose but is not expected to survive long. This role can be both a narrative device and a gameplay mechanic, offering unique experiences for players.

1. Narrative Role: The Expendable Hero

In many games, the redshirt is a character whose death serves to advance the plot or highlight the stakes. For example, in Mass Effect, certain squad members can die during missions, and their deaths have lasting consequences for the story. Playing as a redshirt in this context means embracing the idea that your character’s survival is not guaranteed, adding a layer of tension and realism to the narrative.

2. Gameplay Mechanic: The Sacrificial Pawn

Some games use the redshirt concept as a core gameplay mechanic. In Among Us, for instance, players take on the roles of crew members, some of whom are destined to be eliminated by impostors. The thrill of the game lies in the uncertainty of who will survive and who will be the next redshirt. This mechanic creates a dynamic and engaging experience, as players must use strategy and deception to avoid becoming the expendable one.

3. Player Choice: Embracing the Redshirt Role

In games like Dark Souls or XCOM, players often create multiple characters, knowing that many of them will not survive the journey. This acceptance of mortality is a key aspect of the redshirt experience. By playing as a redshirt, players can explore themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the fragility of life in a way that is both poignant and thought-provoking.


The Psychology of Playing as a Redshirt

Why would anyone want to play as a character who is destined to die? The answer lies in the psychological appeal of the redshirt role. Here are some reasons why players might find this experience compelling:

1. The Thrill of Uncertainty

Playing as a redshirt introduces an element of unpredictability. Unlike traditional heroes, whose survival is often assured, redshirts live on the edge, and every decision could be their last. This uncertainty can make gameplay more exciting and immersive.

2. Exploring Mortality

The redshirt role allows players to confront the concept of mortality in a safe and controlled environment. By experiencing the death of a character they control, players can reflect on the value of life and the impact of their choices.

3. The Underdog Appeal

Redshirts are often underdogs, and there’s something inherently satisfying about rooting for (or playing as) the little guy. Overcoming the odds and surviving against all expectations can be incredibly rewarding, even if the character’s ultimate fate is grim.


Games That Let You Play as a Redshirt

Now that we’ve explored the concept, let’s look at some games that allow you to step into the redshirt role:

1. Among Us

As mentioned earlier, Among Us is a prime example of a game where players take on the role of expendable crew members. The game’s social deduction mechanics make every round a tense and thrilling experience.

2. XCOM Series

In XCOM, players control a squad of soldiers, many of whom will inevitably perish in battle. The permadeath mechanic ensures that every loss feels significant, and players must carefully consider their strategies to minimize casualties.

3. Dark Souls

While not explicitly about redshirts, Dark Souls embodies the spirit of the redshirt through its high difficulty and frequent character deaths. Players must learn from each failure, embracing the idea that death is an integral part of the journey.

4. This War of Mine

This survival game puts players in the shoes of civilians trying to survive in a war-torn city. The redshirt role is central to the experience, as players must make difficult decisions about who lives and who dies.

5. FTL: Faster Than Light

In FTL, players manage a spaceship and its crew, many of whom will not survive the journey. The game’s roguelike mechanics ensure that every playthrough is unique, and the loss of crew members is a constant threat.


The Philosophical Implications of the Redshirt Role

Playing as a redshirt isn’t just about gameplay mechanics; it also raises deeper philosophical questions. Here are some themes that emerge from this experience:

1. The Value of a Single Life

In games where characters are expendable, each life carries weight. The redshirt role forces players to consider the value of individual lives and the impact of their choices on others.

2. The Nature of Heroism

What does it mean to be a hero when your survival is not guaranteed? The redshirt challenges traditional notions of heroism, suggesting that bravery and sacrifice are just as important as victory.

3. The Illusion of Control

Games often give players a sense of control, but the redshirt role reminds us that not everything is within our power. This can be a humbling and thought-provoking experience.


Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Redshirt

The redshirt role is more than just a trope; it’s a powerful narrative and gameplay device that offers unique experiences for players. Whether you’re navigating the treacherous halls of a spaceship in Among Us or leading a squad of soldiers in XCOM, playing as a redshirt forces you to confront uncertainty, mortality, and the value of life. So, how many games can you play as a redshirt? The answer is: more than you might think. And in each one, you’ll find a new perspective on what it means to be expendable—and why that might not be such a bad thing after all.


Q: Why are redshirts always the first to die?
A: Redshirts are often used as a narrative device to establish danger and raise the stakes. Their deaths serve to highlight the risks faced by the main characters.

Q: Can you survive as a redshirt in games?
A: While survival is often unlikely, some games allow players to defy the odds and keep their redshirt characters alive through skill and strategy.

Q: What makes the redshirt role appealing to players?
A: The redshirt role offers a unique blend of tension, unpredictability, and emotional depth, making it a compelling choice for players seeking a more immersive experience.

Q: Are there any games where the redshirt becomes the hero?
A: Yes, some games subvert the redshirt trope by allowing expendable characters to rise to prominence, turning them into unexpected heroes.

Q: How does the redshirt role impact storytelling in games?
A: The redshirt role adds layers of complexity to storytelling, forcing players to grapple with themes of sacrifice, mortality, and the consequences of their actions.