Historical events have been the bedrock of some of the most popular video games ever made. We are all aware of some of the more obvious franchises, such as Call of Duty, Age of Empires, or anything encompassing previous historical wars and events. But what if I told you there were video games you might have played and had no idea of their historical bearing? With that said, let’s dive in and discuss a handful of games and gaming series based on historical events.
3 Video Games Based On Historical Events
# 1 Assassin’s Creed Origins
The Assassin’s Creed series has always had a solid foundation in historical events. However, the title that made me feel most connected to history was Assassin’s Creed Origins. I’m no Egyptologist, but I wish I were after exploring the exotic oasis that was the Ptolemaic period of ancient Egypt. The world of Assassin’s Creed Origins will beckon you around every corner, down every cave, and through every body of water to uncover its living history.
This game faithfully and meticulously recreates locations such as Alexandria and the pyramids, which creates an explorable simulator as if you are plugged into the animus itself. Although all the playable characters are fictitious, you will meet some of the most prominent figures of ancient Egypt – like Julius Caesar and Queen Cleopatra. The history unravels before you, much like Cleopatra’s first meeting with Caesar.
# 2 A Plague Tale: Innocence
We’ve all heard of the Black Plague that swept through Europe in the 14th century, but have you ever wondered what it would be like to live through it? Admittedly, I’ve never committed much thought to it. However, the nightmarish historical accuracy of A Plague Tale: Innocence will leave you wishing you hadn’t, either. A grueling tale of what life would have been like in those depraved times, A Plague Tale: Innocence brings every aspect of plague-stricken France to palpable life.
The architecture, clothing, and rural countryside of France are historically represented in this game. Although several supernatural liberties were taken to dramatize the gameplay, none detract from the multi-layered historical setting. For instance, aside from the plague, we are shown the impact of the Hundred Years’ War, an arduous conflict that persisted between England and France during this tumultuous time.
#3 Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is much more than your typical souls game setting. Don’t get me wrong; I’m a massive Soulsborne fan, and I use the word ‘typical’ lightly. What I mean is that Sekiro feels a little less fantastic and a little more gritty, taking inspiration from the historical setting of the Sengoku era (roughly 1500 AD).
This medieval era of Japan is revitalized with its sacred temples and mystical creatures that fully immerse the player in the blood-pumping action. It was no mere accident that FromSoftware chose this era, as it perfectly intertwines the themes of a Soulsborne game with the bloody and ruthless history of Japan amidst this epoch.
