How is The Preservation of Historical Events in Games Significant?

Growing up, history was never my favourite subject. Multiple dates, names, battles yada yada felt like a monotonous learning through dusty textbooks. That dislike towards history was eventually reflected on my final exam’s mark sheet. 

However, my perspective toward history changed when I picked up Assassin’s Creed. In a moment, I wasn’t studying history but living in it. 

Imagine jumping through the architecture of Renaissance, Italy and witnessing the centuries-old face of Florence. I wasn’t reading about the great Leonardo da Vinci but got a glimpse of the process behind his artistic masterpiece, the Mona Lisa.

Joining hands with the 15th-century inventor wasn’t just amusing but the game itself worked as a time machine for me.

A Journey Through Time

The Assassin’s Creed and similar games have the ability to magically carry us back in different eras. The series showed players the revolutionary Boston Massacre in Assassin’s Creed III. It even allowed them to narrowly save Queen Victoria from an assassination attempt in 1882 in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate.

Each of its games has created a next-level experience for players by thinly crafting the architecture, atmosphere and culture. The depiction of old periods made history look more alive in a way my textbooks and lecturer never could.

But it’s not just about the famous historical figures and events. These games are meticulously crafted to delve into the lives of ordinary people as well. Walking through the busy markets and listening to the conversations of the townsfolk gave me a deep understanding of their everyday struggles, how they talk and most importantly the market dynamics of the old days.

Beyond Assassin’s Creed

The history isn’t preserved in Assassin’s Creed games only. Call of Duty: WWII plunges players into the tormenting battles of World War II, from the streets of Berlin to the beaches of Normandy.

World War II may be a fading historical lesson for many Gen-Zs. Call of Duty WWII brilliantly shed light on it and not only captured the intensity of the combat but also the comradeship and sacrifices of soldiers. It created emotional depth by igniting the trauma soldiers on the frontline must have gone through.

*SPOILER INCOMING*

Moreover, Valiant Hearts: The Great War shouldn’t be left behind when talking about historical stories. Although it isn’t a typical big-budget RPG game, it is beautifully crafted to narrate the stories of four characters during World War I.

Its profound storytelling brought my attention to the neglected human side of the war. It constantly reminded me of the hidden personal stories of each individual.

The Educational Potential

Oftentimes, the games educate players as much as they entertain. They encourage you to explore more about previous eras sparking curiosity. Let me share my experience with Total War: Rome II. 

The game is detailed and reflects the historical Roman kingdoms. With every playtime, my hunger to know about the Roman Empire increased more. “How were they able to devise such unique battle strategies”, “What were the political conflicts that ultimately led to war?” etc.

I found myself swimming through the materials to learn more about the Roman military and the real political intrigues that inspired the game’s story.

Moreover, educational institutions have now begun to recognize the potential of understanding history through gaming. Besides, some schools have even incorporated video games into their curriculum. This approach won’t just engage students but will also enhance their understanding of history making it much more than dates.

Preserving History For the Future

In the fastly progressive era where visual media dominates, the historical events preserved in a video game ensure a reach to a diverse and wide audience. It keeps the past events alive and honours the legacy of those who lived through them to teach future generations about their significance.

Moreover, the interactive preservation of history often attracts people by building a connection between them. Unlike movies, players get to live through that period. By making choices and experiencing consequences, the interactivity fosters a deeper connection between the past and players, making the gameplay memorable.

The Living History

I have realized the profound impact games have had on my understanding as I transitioned from a reluctant history student to an avid history enthusiast. Ultimately, I have nothing but appreciation and respect for the past.

Video games preserved with past events showed me that history isn’t meant to be read, but a rich tapestry to be explored. Through these digital adventures, one can honour the past and inspire a love for history in the future.