This idea was part of the 2025 game jam ideas project.

DNA Monster Hunter

One Liner: Hunt monsters, take their genes, make new monsters, repeat.

  • Crisper = CRISPR-Cas9, "A precise genetic cutting tool that lets scientists edit DNA quickly and accurately." or "Molecular scissors for DNA."
  • Gene sequencing = "Reading the exact order of DNA letters in a gene."

Gene sequencing and Crisper has been perfected and is available to everyone with a few low cost tools.

There are two new jobs in this world.

  • Splicers (Hunters) are people who collect DNA from unique species then decode the genes to find novelties. They sell the novel DNA sequences to Editors. The extraction process is complex and normally kills the species (Can't just use someone discarded hair)
  • Editors (Makers) are people that use the novel DNA sequences to edit and create new creatures.

While this system does work to varying levels of success with existing living organisms, it is best used on embryos in tanks for creating new creatures.

It's easier to make small changes to an existing stable creature then make massive changes. Creating stable creatures is hard and only the most experienced are good at it. Most of these new creatures die after a few years.

There have been some horrible monsters created over the years by bad actors. Monsters have destroyed most major cities, as big cities became beacons for monster attacks (Godzilla paradox). This story is a few hundred years after the initial death and destruction. Technology stagnated and is close to what we have now. (Post apocalypse but close to our own tech)

A few small and medium size cites remain. A "gene destabilizer field" can be extended over a few acres of land. This field prevents any unstable creatures from entering. This effectively means that any created creatures or humans that have been edited too much can't enter the cities. (Safe havens)

Wild monsters roam the world and it's not uncommon for monster attacks outside of cities. (Random small monster attacks, fodder)

There is riches to be made by hunting and harvesting the genes from the wild monsters that roam the world. (reason to leave the city)

Basically you roam the wild, hunting monsters, fighting them with your own monsters, collecting their DNA, then using the DNA to make your own monsters. "Be the best you can be". Add in a few mini bosses and a 'big bad guy' for flavor and you got yourself a story.