Dinosaur Games: The Ultimate Guide
Dinosaur games have been a favourite among gamers for decades, appealing to a wide range of players from kids to adults. These games tap into our fascination with the prehistoric world, allowing us to step into the shoes (or claws) of these magnificent creatures, explore ancient environments, and engage in thrilling adventures. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of dinosaur games available, the top picks in each category, and what makes these games so captivating.
Types of Dinosaur Games
Dinosaur games come in various genres, each offering unique gameplay experiences. Here are some of the most popular types:
1. Dinosaur Adventure Games
Adventure games immerse players in rich, story-driven experiences. You might explore jungles, deserts, and ancient ruins while uncovering secrets and battling foes. These games often feature puzzles, exploration, and an engaging narrative.
Top Picks:
ARK: Survival Evolved
A survival adventure game where you must craft, build bases, tame dinosaurs, and survive in a world filled with creatures. There are 194 creatures most are dinosaurs however there are mythical additions such as a phoenix and a golem.
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, Stadia
Lego Jurassic World
A Lego adventure game that covers the first four films. Tons of characters to choose from and iconic scenes that are child friendly with no gruesome endings. One of the best games from the Jurassic series.
Platforms: PS3, PS4, PS Vita, Nintendos 3DS, Nintendo Switch, Wii U, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, OS X, iOS, Android
2. Dinosaur Battle Games
For those who love action and combat, dinosaur battle games let you fight as or against dinosaurs. These games can range from one-on-one fighting games to large-scale battles where strategy plays a crucial role.
Top Picks:
Primal Carnage
An online multiplayer shooter where players can either control humans or dinosaurs to then fight it out. There are two games that have currently released Primal Carnage and Primal Carnage: Extinction. The third game currently in development is Primal Carnage: Evolution, that is to be released for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. Primal Carnage main game modes are Team Deathmatch, Get to the Chopper and Capture the Egg.
Platform: Microsoft Windows
Dino Crisis
A classic survival horror game where players face off against terrifying dinosaurs in a suspenseful storyline. Created by Capcom it shares many similarities with early Resident Evil titles but featuring dinosaurs.
Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 2, Dreamcast, Microsoft Windows, Xbox, Mobile
3. Dinosaur Simulation Games
Simulation games allow players to experience life as a dinosaur, whether it’s surviving in the wild, raising a family, or ruling the ecosystem. These games often focus on realism and the daily challenges dinosaurs would have faced.
Top Picks:
The Isle
An online multiplayer dinosaur survival game where you play as a dinosaur, evolving and surviving in a harsh, realistic environment. Choose from various playable dinosaurs including herbivores and carnivores. Play with over 100 players on one server to form packs and herds all trying to survive.
Platform: Microsoft Windows
Saurian
A scientifically accurate simulation game where you live the life of a dinosaur in the Hell Creek ecosystem in the Cretaceous period. Your dinosaur starts off young and eventually grows up gaining new abilities. Playable dinosaurs include a Dakotaraptor, Tyrannosaurus, Triceratops, Anzu, Ankylosaurus and a Pachycephalosaurus.
Platform: Microsoft Windows
4. Educational Dinosaur Games
Educational dinosaur games are perfect for younger players or anyone interested in learning more about these ancient creatures. These games often combine fun gameplay with facts about dinosaurs, making them both entertaining and informative.
Top Picks:
Jurassic World Evolution 2
A dinosaur park building simulator game, where you can learn about the dinosaurs habits and history, whilst trying to contain them. There are 4 different game modes, one including a campaign mode where you work alongside characters in the Jurassic films trying to contain the dinosaurs now loose across the USA.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S and Microsoft Windows
Dino Dan: Dino Dig Site
Aimed at kids, this game allows players to dig for fossils, assemble them per their real structure, and learn about the dinosaurs they discover. Dig sites are all over the world. Fossils can be found by a radar and then careful digging and chiseling.
Platforms: Online for Microsoft Windows and Mac
5. Dinosaur Platform Games
Platform games with dinosaurs often involve running, jumping, and avoiding obstacles, offering a fun and fast-paced experience. These games are usually easy to pick up but can become increasingly challenging.
Top Picks:
Chrome Dino: No Internet Game
Created for the Google Chrome browser No Internet error message screen. A simple yet addictive game where you control a T-Rex, jumping over cacti and avoiding pterodactyls in an endless runner style when your internet goes down. Learn more about it here.
Platforms: Offline for Microsoft Windows and Mac using the Google Chrome Browser
Dino Run
A retro-style platformer where you guide a dinosaur through various levels, escaping from an impending extinction event. Run past and over dinosaurs, pits, obstacles and flying meteorites trying to outrun the wall of destruction.
Platforms: Online for Microsoft Windows and Mac
6. Dinosaur Trivia Games
Would you like to test your knowledge of dinosaurs then you need a comprehensive trivia quiz. We have made just the free dinosaur quiz for you, with 30 questions to test your knowledge here. This quiz is perfect for those dinosaur enthusiasts, or if you are thinking of having a dinosaur themed party.
Also if you like the “Jurassic” films then why not complete our Jurassic Park quiz here and Jurassic World quiz here.
7. Dinosaur Escape Room Game
If you are looking to play a dinosaur themed escape room game for free then take a look at our one. Its a printable game that has an interactive website, cartoon video and 3D props including a sleeping T-Rex. It can be downloaded for free here.
Why Dinosaur Games Are So Popular
Dinosaur games have stood the test of time, maintaining their popularity across generations. Here are a few reasons why these games continue to capture our imagination:
1. Fascination with Dinosaurs
Dinosaurs have always intrigued people, and games allow us to explore this fascination in an interactive way. Whether it’s the mystery of their extinction or the sheer scale and power of these creatures, dinosaurs never fail to captivate.
2. Diverse Gameplay
The variety of dinosaur games means there’s something for everyone. Whether you enjoy strategy, action, adventure, or education, there’s a dinosaur game that fits your favourite gaming style.
3. Nostalgia
For many, dinosaur games bring back memories of childhood, whether it’s playing classic titles like “Dino Crisis” or watching movies like “Jurassic Park.” This sense of nostalgia keeps players coming back to these games.
4. Educational Value
Dinosaur games, especially educational ones, are a fun way to learn about prehistoric life. They make learning about dinosaurs engaging and accessible, especially for younger audiences.
Conclusion: Dive Into the Prehistoric World of Dinosaur Games
Dinosaur games offer a unique blend of fun, excitement, and education, making them a beloved genre among gamers of all ages. Whether you’re looking to embark on an epic adventure, engage in fierce battles, or simply learn more about these ancient creatures, there’s a dinosaur game out there for you.
Explore the games mentioned in this guide and discover your own favourites. The prehistoric world is waiting for you—are you ready to step into the age of dinosaurs?
References
ARK: Survival Evolved (online). http://www.studiowildcard.com/ark-survival-evolved
Lego Jurassic World (online). https://www.warnerbros.com/games-and-apps/lego-jurassic-world
Primal Carnage (online). https://primalcarnage.com
Dino Crisis (Playstation console). Capcom
The Isle (online). https://www.survivetheisle.com
Saurian (online). https://sauriangame.squarespace.com
Jurassic World Evolution 2 (online). https://www.jurassicworldevolution2.com
Dino Dan: Dino Dig Site (online). http://www.dinodan.com/dinodig/dinodig/
Chrome Dino (online in Google Chrome browser). chrome://dino
Dino Run (online). https://poki.com/en/g/dino-run
