How Video Games Like Assassin's Creed Spark a Passion for History
In a world where virtual landscapes mingle with ancient epochs, historical video games like Assassin’s Creed and Age of Empires are not just a source of entertainment—they’re a gateway to the past. According to a recent study by the University of Sunshine Coast, these games are igniting a curiosity for history among players, extending their learning beyond the screen.
Historians Behind the Pixels
The intricate details in games like Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands and Assassin’s Creed are not just products of a developer’s imagination. They stem from the expertise of historians like Thierry Noël. When Ubisoft decided to delve into Latin America for their game setting, it was Noël they turned to for authenticity.
“I had the incredible chance to join Ubisoft and lead the team,” Noël recounts, describing his intriguing journey from a historian in Bolivia to a pivotal role in game development.
The Study Sparking Curiosity
Dr. Jacqueline Burgess, the author of the study, notes the striking similarity between historical novels and these immersive games. Both mediums capture the essence of their respective eras, prompting players and readers alike to pursue further knowledge.
“Players are inspired to learn more about the history depicted in the games, thereby indulging in their curiosity beyond gaming,” Dr. Burgess highlights.
Balancing Authenticity and Playability
As entertaining as they are educative, these games must tread lightly between historical accuracy and playability. According to Noël, “authentic does not mean full accuracy but aims at what feels true.”
Age of Empires developers Adam Isgreen and Emma Bridle echo this sentiment. They emphasize the importance of reflecting accurate cultural representations while engaging players in dynamic gameplay, even if that means occasionally aesthetically altering historical facts for an enhanced experience.
The Gaming World’s Enlightened Enthusiasts
Feedback from players who are part of represented cultures is crucial, driving developers to refine and explain their creative choices. This interactive loop of feedback and research is crucial to maintaining an informed and respectful depiction of history.
Reflecting on the immersive worlds they’ve helped craft, Isgreen notes, “I think for me, the biggest thing is realizing how close we are to history.”
These historical video games, while a form of entertainment, remain a powerful tool in fostering education and appreciation for the tales of yore—carving a curious path for gamers into the heart of history, as noted in Australian Broadcasting Corporation.