10 Video Games That Surprisingly Feature Iowa

From cornfields to... arcades? Yep! Iowa has left its subtle (and sometimes bizarre) footprint on video games. Whether it’s a full-fledged setting, hidden level, quirky reference, or an International Museum, these games highlight the Hawkeye State in unexpected ways. One of my favorites on this list got some seriously heavy play time during my younger years at the Great Jones County Fair in Monticello. Here’s a list of titles that take players through Iowa's digital landscapes.

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1) Cabela’s Trophy Bucks

• Setting: Hunting Grounds in Iowa

In this hunting simulator, Iowa's rolling fields are a prime location to track trophy bucks. Known for its whitetail deer, Iowa serves as one of the featured regions where players can test their hunting skills, blending realistic wildlife behavior with immersive environments. The game suffered from poor reviews and performed much better in its arcade style game integrations featuring a physical shotgun you could hold and aim.

2) CarnEvil

• Setting: Creepy Carnival in Iowa

CarnEvil, the cult-classic arcade rail shooter from 1998, is set in the fictional "Greely Valley, Iowa." The game kicks off when the protagonist unwittingly awakens a haunted carnival after inserting a token into a mysterious graveyard machine. The result? A twisted and horror-filled carnival ride that lives on in arcade infamy. This was easily one of my favorite games at the Great Jones County Fair's arcade tent when I was young. Countless quarters went in with several hours spent behind the light-gun.

3) Cruis’n USA

• Setting: Iowa’s Cornfields

In this arcade racer, players speed through various U.S. landmarks, including a stretch through Iowa. The level showcases endless cornfields and rural highways, giving players a taste of the state’s iconic farm landscapes—albeit at breakneck speeds. I played this game constantly and still have the original game cartridge for N64 at home.

4) Far Cry New Dawn

• Setting: Iowa via the Carmina Rye Connection

Although not set explicitly in Iowa, Far Cry New Dawn introduces Carmina Rye, a companion character whose backstory ties her origins to Iowa before her journey into the post-apocalyptic world. This subtle nod plants a piece of the Midwest within Ubisoft’s chaotic universe.

5) LEGO Marvel’s Avengers

• Setting: Iowa Safe House via the Battle of Sokovia Easter Egg

While most action takes place in iconic Marvel locations, there’s a playful in-game reference at Hawkeye’s (Clint Barton’s) farmhouse in Iowa. The simple, rustic vibes reflect the state’s Midwestern charm.

6) MLB The Show 21

• Setting: Field of Dreams, Dyersville, Iowa

The legendary Field of Dreams baseball field, a real-life Iowa landmark, makes its digital debut in MLB The Show 21. Players can step onto the iconic diamond surrounded by cornfields, immortalizing the movie magic of “If you build it, he will come” in stunning detail.

7) Rampage Through Time

• Setting: Destruction Across Iowa

In this sequel to Rampage, players’ giant monsters wreak havoc across various time periods and states—including a level set in Sioux City, Iowa. Our skyscrapers may be few in real life, but in this chaotic romp, even Iowa isn’t spared from the carnage.

8) SimCity 2000

• Setting: The Iowa State Capitol as a Building Option, preloaded flood scenario

In SimCity 2000, players can unlock or build real-world landmarks, including a pixelated version of the Iowa State Capitol building. With its golden dome and historic architecture, the Capitol adds a touch of Iowa pride to your dream city. It also featured a challenge set in Davenport during the flood of 1993. It stated: "In 1993, heavy rains, that lasted weeks, sent much run-off into the Mississippi River. As the water ran down to the Gulf of Mexico, it built up so much that in some places it was 50 ft. above normal. Fill sandbags, mop up the mess and build your city to a population level of 118,000 in five years to win."

9) Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Pandora Tomorrow

• Setting: Des Moines Airport, Des Moines Hospital

In this stealth-action classic, Des Moines International Airport briefly appears during a cutscene. While not a primary level, the inclusion of the Iowa location adds authenticity to the game's global narrative. Additionally, Temple Meyer Hospital, Des Moines, Iowa, is featured on the multiplayer maps. The Temple Mount Hospital has nearly completed construction of a new North Wing to serve Iowa's growing population.

10) X-Men Origins: Wolverine (Video Game)

• Setting: Secret Military Facility in Iowa

The game adaptation of X-Men Origins: Wolverine includes a covert military facility hidden in Iowa. Players guide Wolverine through the location, battling enemies and uncovering experimental secrets—bringing unexpected action to the quiet Midwest. It's also the location where you get to fight the Blob in a boss fight.

Bonus: Twin Galaxies Legacy – Not a Game, but Gaming History

While not part of a single game, Ottumwa, Iowa, is hailed as the "Video Game Capital of the World" thanks to Twin Galaxies Arcade. Founded in the 1980s, it became the epicenter for high scores and competitive gaming history, influencing countless gamers and developers worldwide. Check out the documentary about it below.

Additionally, The International Video Game Hall of Fame is located in Ottumwa, this institution celebrates gaming legends, from iconic titles to competitive players, further solidifying Iowa's influence on the gaming world.

Who knew Iowa could pack such a punch in gaming history? Whether it’s chasing deer, destroying buildings, or sneaking through airports, the Hawkeye State proves it’s more than just flyover country—it’s game-ready!