When It Comes to Game Design, Art Imitates Life
Art and culture share a symbiotic relationship, shaping and influencing each other in profound ways. While Oscar Wilde’s famous assertion in his 1889 essay ‘The Decay of Lying’ suggests life imitates art more than the reverse, the past few decades have demonstrated how different cultures provide shape and direction to art. Concurrently, art acts as a conduit for introducing new values and perspectives into our cultural landscape.
This interplay between art and culture is evident across various domains, from interior design to Hollywood productions. Traditional Chinese architecture’s growing popularity in Western homes and Walt Disney Pictures’ 2020 release of Mulan exemplify how different cultures leave their imprint on diverse forms of art. However, perhaps nowhere is cultural inspiration more apparent than in game design, spanning both video games and online games.
Historical Period-Inspired Games:
Numerous video games draw inspiration from historical periods and the traditions of specific cultures, with the Assassin’s Creed franchise standing out as a prime example. This action-adventure series immerses players in different cultural worlds and historic eras, ranging from the 12th-century Third Crusade to 15th and 16th-century Italy. Later installments transport players to the American Revolution and the Golden Age of Piracy in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Assassin’s Creed is lauded for its historical storytelling, meticulously crafting costumes that align with the cultural aesthetics of each period. For instance, in Assassin’s Creed II, set in the Renaissance in Italy, the protagonist’s costume mirrors the fashion of the time, enhancing the immersive experience for players.
Mythological-Inspired Games:
The influence of mythology is another captivating facet seen in many video games, extending to online games, particularly within the video slots genre. Asian-oriented symbols like dragons and Greek mythology find a prominent place in these games. For example, the video game Age of Mythology and the Rise of Olympus slot game both delve into Ancient Greek mythology.
In Age of Mythology, players encounter mythological creatures like Cyclops, adding an immersive layer to the gaming experience. Meanwhile, the Rise of Olympus slot game features symbols representing Greek gods, such as Poseidon’s trident, Zeus’ lightning bolt, and Hades’ battle helmet. Similarly, the critically acclaimed 2018 release God of War draws inspiration from Norse mythology, weaving a compelling narrative around the gods from this cultural heritage.
Cultural Learning Through Game Design:
Game design serves as a powerful vehicle for cultural exchange, fostering understanding and appreciation for diverse traditions. Whether through video games or online experiences, the incorporation of cultural elements encourages players to explore new conversations, topics, and issues. In today’s complex societal and political climate, the importance of embracing cultural diversity cannot be overstated. Engaging with games that immerse players in different cultures not only entertains but also educates, contributing to a more open-minded and informed society.
In conclusion, the marriage of art and culture in game design offers not only entertainment but also a valuable opportunity for cultural exploration and appreciation. Games that draw from historical periods and mythologies serve as bridges between different worlds, enriching players’ experiences and promoting a more inclusive understanding of our global cultural tapestry.