Since its introduction to the public in 1998's Jurassic Park: Trespasser, the art of ragdoll physics in video games has experienced multiple significant changes. The capacity to have NPCs respond to impact and environmental changes have significantly transformed games, especially combat.

Some games, such as Octodad and Gang Beasts, even make overcoming slick ragdoll mechanics the purpose of the game. Other games, however, go too far with this dedication, with characters falling to the ground at the smallest stumble over a curb or minor touch from a truck. Regardless, improved physics engines have transformed gaming, with how we tumble down slopes, off of buildings, and in battles providing an endless amount of amusement.

Goat Simulator

It is simple to see why Goat Simulator was so popular. Goat Simulator provided players with a fully unique gaming experience when it was released in 2014 when goats were at the height of their Internet popularity and the perfect moment to spoof other Simulator games.

QWOP

Flash game QWOP is one of the all-time greats in terms of ragdoll physics; it is endlessly iconic, addicting, embarrassing, and funny. Though touch is stiffer than some of the most complex, fluid, and realistic entries on our list, QWOP has withstood the test of time in terms of engaging gameplay, boasting an impressive lineage of record-breakers, including an AI bot that was unable to beat the record at the time.

GTA 4

Many consider GTA 4 to be better than GTA 5 in terms of ragdoll physics, despite the fact that their relative quality is the subject of considerable discussion.

As the first game in the series to use realistic ragdoll technology, many were astonished by protagonist Niko's buoyancy. Through head-on crashes through windshields, parachute-less helicopter dives, and playing in traffic, the boundaries of the game's engine were extensively tested. Its success was not restricted to GTA 4, though, since the ragdoll technology improved over time in subsequent Rockstar games.

Skate 3

What better subgenre for ragdoll physics testing than one of the most chaotic sports? The Skate series not only appreciated the art of the slam but actively promoted it, particularly Skate 3, which included a convenient but cringe-inducing skeleton mode that enabled players to see whose bones they'd crushed.

Happy Wheels

Happy Wheels, a classic flash game, was a pioneer in allowing players to build and share their own levels online. Players were charged with reaching the conclusion of each side-scrolling, platform-based, survival level in one piece as a variety of characters with expendable limbs, including a wheelchair-bound elderly man, a father and son on a pushbike, and a guy on a Segway.

The various hyperviolent traps meant to decapitate and destroy made the ragdoll physics more amusing, with arrow-impaled individuals peddling desperately towards the end with stumps for legs and no arms. Is sardonic wit required? It aids.

Skyrim: The Elder Scrolls V

Certain aspects of video games will never cease to be enjoyable. In Mario Kart, hitting an opponent with a green shell, in Death Stranding, resting your feet after a large delivery, and the ultimate: the Fus Ro Dah. After more than a decade, sending troops, giants, bears, spiders, mudcrabs, and anything else that gives you a weird look never gets old.

L.A. Noire

Although not the most polished and cutting-edge ragdoll engines available, the physics of Rockstar's detective classic are endlessly fascinating. In contrast to previous Rockstar games in which NPCs often react to hits by guarding their damaged regions or sheltering themselves as they attempt to remain on their feet, the characters in L.A. Noire seem determined to be as nonreactive as possible.

Just Cause 4

In spite of the fact that the whole series utilizes a similar ragdoll concept, the fourth iteration is distinguished by the sheer number of chances it presents. The grappling hook, which resembles a harpoon, has become a defining element of the series and permits some of the most innovative and chaotic ragdoll animations ever seen on screen.