The phrase under consideration refers to video games that share key characteristics with the Watch Dogs franchise. These commonalities often include open-world environments, a focus on hacking mechanics, urban settings, and narratives centered around themes of surveillance, technology, and social justice. For example, titles like Grand Theft Auto V, Cyberpunk 2077, and Assassin’s Creed (particularly later installments) exhibit elements found within this category due to their open-world nature and the integration of hacking or stealth mechanics within a modern or near-future setting.
The appeal of these interactive entertainment products lies in the freedom they offer to explore expansive virtual environments and engage in emergent gameplay. The integration of hacking mechanics adds a layer of strategic depth, allowing players to manipulate the digital world to their advantage. This subgenre taps into anxieties and fascinations surrounding modern technology, government overreach, and the potential for individuals to challenge powerful institutions. Their popularity reflects a growing societal interest in exploring the ethical and practical implications of interconnected systems.