As Earth Day approaches, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on our planet and the steps we can take to protect it. While gaming delivers enjoyment, it also has environmental consequences. Xbox is dedicated to minimizing its ecological footprint through innovative solutions such as energy efficiency features and the Xbox Sustainability Toolkit, both designed to enhance the gaming experience while being mindful of environmental impact.
Microsoft, including Xbox, has ambitious goals for 2030, aiming to achieve carbon negativity, water positivity, and zero waste. Gaming serves as a platform to inspire awareness and appreciation for the environment. Players can engage with complex ecological issues through gameplay, promoting environmentally friendly practices and a deeper appreciation for nature.
This Earth Day, we highlight a selection of games that not only entertain but also educate players about their environmental impact. From agricultural simulations advocating sustainable practices to adventures that focus on wildlife preservation, these games connect players to the natural world. Below is a curated list of noteworthy titles along with insights from their creators.
Play
Another Crab’s Treasure – Available Now
Step into the shell of Kril, a hermit crab, navigating a polluted ocean while using discarded trash as armor against larger foes. Uncover secrets during your quest to reclaim your shell.
“The game reflects the troubling reality of overconsumption and waste. It effectively merges entertaining mechanics with meaningful themes.” – Nick Kaman, Studio Head, Aggro Crab.
Coral Island – Available Now
Experience idyllic island life through this reimagined farming simulation, where players can raise crops, interact with townsfolk, and promote sustainability by cleaning up pollution.
“Our goal was to raise awareness about pollution through enjoyable gameplay, encouraging players to think about their environmental impact.” – Soma Putera, COO of Stairway Games.
Merge Games Cleaning Bundle – Available Now
This bundle features two titles:
- Fresh Start: A single-player experience focused on restoring a polluted world, solving puzzles while cleaning up nature.
- No Place Like Home: Join Ellen as she discovers the fate of her grandfather’s farm and embarks on a journey of restoration.
“We aim to show that even small actions can lead to significant environmental changes.” – Adrian Komarski, Developer, Chicken Launcher.
Paradise Marsh – Available Now
Explore a serene wetland as you assist wildlife while remaining vigilant for disappearing stars in the night sky.
“The game reflects my childhood curiosity about nature and aims to inspire appreciation for the environment.” – Etienne Trudeau, Creator, Paradise Marsh.
Under The Waves – Available Now
In this narrative-driven adventure, Stan, a diver, confronts personal loss while navigating an unforgiving underwater world, emphasizing marine fragility.
“This project allows us to address serious environmental themes stemming from personal experiences with marine pollution.” – Ronan Coiffec, Game Director.
We Are The Caretakers – Available Now
An afrofuturist RPG where players assemble a team to protect endangered species and combat extraterrestrial threats.
“Adopting sustainable practices in daily life aligns with the game’s message of minimizing environmental impact.” – Scott Brodie, Game Director, Heart Shaped Games.
Learn
Explore the latest energy-saving features on your console by navigating to Settings > General > Power options. Activating Shutdown (energy saving) can reduce power usage significantly.
Discover more about the Xbox Sustainability Toolkit, which aids developers in creating eco-friendly games and identifying ways to lessen environmental impact.
To keep updated on Xbox’s sustainability initiatives, visit xbox.com/sustainability.