The world of video games is about to get a bold and controversial twist! Relooted, a groundbreaking game developed by the African-based studio Nyamakop, is on a mission to bring awareness to a sensitive topic. But here's where it gets intriguing: players are tasked with stealing African artifacts from museums and private mansions to return them to their rightful historical owners.
This isn't just a fictional adventure; the creators emphasize that every artifact featured in the game is real. Mohale Mashigo, the narrative director, confidently states, 'The history is out there.' Players step into the shoes of Nomali, an athletic young woman with a talent for parkour, who finds herself caught in a web of Western museums' shady dealings. These institutions have been hiding their African collections, defying a repatriation treaty, and Nomali's grandmother has had enough. She assembles a team, including Nomali, to infiltrate these museums and reclaim the artifacts, returning them to their African descendants.
The game shines a light on a startling fact: hundreds of thousands of African artifacts are held outside the continent, with UNESCO estimating that 90-95% are in Western institutions. Many were looted during colonial times, and those not displayed in museums have found their way into the black market or unknown collectors' hands. Relooted takes a stand against this historical injustice.
One of the early missions involves retrieving the Benin Bronzes, a collection from modern-day Nigeria, some of which have been repatriated from Germany and Scotland but remain in British museums. The game's creators were initially hesitant to create an African-themed game, fearing financial risks. However, the success of Black Panther in 2018, which also touched on reclaiming African artifacts, inspired them to take the leap.
Nyamakop ensures the game's story is grounded in reality, avoiding the 'Wakandification' of African narratives. As players plan their heists, they receive a history lesson on the artifacts, adding an educational layer to the game. The gameplay is a unique blend of classic adventure-puzzle and modern run-based mechanics, with a focus on speed and precision. Players can expect to replay levels, perfecting their strategies and escape plans.
The game's narrative is well-developed, with captivating voice work and art style. Nomali's relationships, especially with her family, add depth to the story. Relooted offers a fresh and thought-provoking experience, sparking conversations about the repatriation of cultural artifacts. And while the creators don't encourage real-life heists, they hope players will engage with the game's themes and explore the rich history it presents.
