A new video game titled “Relooted,” developed by Nyamakop, an African-based studio, challenges players to retrieve African artifacts from museums and private residences to return them to their original historical owners. While the game may seem fictional at first glance, the developers emphasize that all the featured artifacts are authentic.
According to Mohale Mashigo, the narrative director of “Relooted,” the game draws from real history, eliminating the need for fabricated elements about the artifacts. Players assume the role of Nomali, a young woman with a background in athletics, parkour, and free running, who returns from Tanzania to Johannesburg in a futuristic setting to assist her grandmother in reclaiming stolen artifacts from Western museums and collectors.
It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of African artifacts are situated outside the continent, with UNESCO reporting that up to 95% of them are housed in Western institutions. Many of these items were looted by Western colonialists and some are still circulating in the black market or in private collections.
In the game, players embark on missions to recover significant artifacts like the Benin Bronzes, part of Nigeria’s Kingdom of Benin collection, some of which have been repatriated while others remain in British museums. Nyamakop aims to ground the game in reality, emphasizing actual countries and artifacts to avoid fictionalizing African narratives like in the movie “Black Panther.”
“Relooted” offers a unique gameplay experience focused on planning heists and executing them with precision rather than engaging in combat. Players strategically navigate levels, avoiding security measures while recruiting team members with specialized skills to aid in complex thefts. The game combines classic adventure and puzzle elements with modern gameplay mechanics, providing a compelling and immersive experience for players.
Through its engaging narrative and diverse cast of characters, “Relooted” sheds light on African history, offering players a glimpse into untold stories while providing an entertaining and educational gaming experience. The game’s release on PC and Xbox, including Xbox Game Pass, is set for Feb. 10, inviting players to embark on a thrilling journey of artifact reclamation.