Earthquakes are great and terrible forces, destroying homes, claiming lives, and reminding humanity as a whole that this planet we crawl across isn't as solid as it seems. The east coast of the U.S. found that out today. For the rest of us, there are video games.

While the rest of Kotaku's east coast crew were being evacuated during today's earthquake, down here in Atlanta the ground didn't budge. I was relieved, of course, but also a bit disappointed. I've never experienced an earthquake myself, and while that's a good thing, I can't help but be curious.

For now the extent of my experience comes from video games, so I've compiled a little list of 5.9 titles that have (or will have) helped define what an earthquake is for me. Flip through the gallery to check out games that can give you a little taste of what it feels like when terra firma gets a little less firma, and be sure to share your favorite earthquake gaming moments in the comments.