Hostile Environment - Games

In gaming, 'Hostile Environment' refers to a design philosophy where the setting itself becomes a primary antagonist. This concept transcends mere difficulty spikes, embedding danger into the world's fabric—be it through toxic atmospheres, predatory ecosystems, or oppressive societal structures. It forces players to engage with survival mechanics, resource management, and environmental storytelling. The hostility is not just a backdrop but an active, systemic challenge that shapes narrative tension and player agency, often symbolizing themes of isolation, resilience, or ecological critique within interactive experiences.