Relooted: the South African video game where players take back artefacts from western museums | Games

Video Games and the Repatriation Revolution: A New Front in the Fight for Cultural Heritage

A new video game, Relooted, developed by South African studio Nyamakop, is turning the complex issue of artefact repatriation into an interactive experience. Players take on the role of Nomali, a parkour expert, tasked with reclaiming 70 real African artefacts currently held in Western museums. This isn’t just entertainment. it’s a powerful statement reflecting a growing global movement.

The Digital Heist: How Relooted Works

Relooted allows players to virtually “steal back” items like the Asante gold mask, looted by the British army during the destruction of Kumasi, now residing in London’s Wallace Collection, and the skull of Tanzanian king Mangi Meli, held in Germany. The game’s mechanics center around stealth, agility, and strategic planning, mirroring the real-world complexities of repatriation efforts. The game’s creator, Ben Myres, emphasizes the aim is to provide a “hopeful, utopian feeling” of what the return of these objects could represent.

Beyond the Game: The Real-World Momentum for Repatriation

Relooted arrives at a pivotal moment. The game taps into a growing international conversation about the ethical implications of holding culturally significant objects acquired during colonial periods. Institutions like Berlin’s Ethnologisches Museum and Cambridge University have already begun returning Benin bronzes to Nigeria. However, others, including the British Museum, continue to resist full repatriation.

A 2018 report commissioned by French President Emmanuel Macron estimated that over 90% of Africa’s cultural heritage is held outside the continent. This staggering statistic underscores the scale of the issue and the urgency of addressing it.

The Future of Repatriation: Digital Activism and Shifting Narratives

The emergence of Relooted signals a potential shift in how repatriation is discussed and advocated for. Video games, with their massive reach and immersive qualities, can raise awareness and foster empathy in ways traditional media often cannot. This form of “digital activism” could become increasingly important as the movement gains momentum.

The game’s creators intentionally crafted a vision of an “Africanfuturist” future, focusing on a thriving and equitable continent. In contrast, Europe and the United States are depicted as generic entities, a deliberate move to “parody the way the west represents Africa.” This narrative choice highlights the power of art and entertainment to challenge dominant perspectives.

The inclusion of specific artefacts, like the Kabwe Skull currently held in London’s Natural History Museum, adds a personal dimension to the game. For the game’s producer, Sithe Ncube, including this object, discovered in her native Zambia, was a matter of principle.

The Role of Technology in Tracking and Authenticating Artefacts

Beyond gaming, technology is playing an increasingly vital role in the repatriation process itself. Blockchain technology, for example, is being explored as a means of creating immutable records of an artefact’s provenance, making it easier to verify ownership and track its history. Digital imaging and 3D scanning are also being used to create detailed replicas of objects, allowing museums to share cultural heritage without physically transferring the originals.

Did you know? The Benin Bronzes, a collection of over 5,000 metal plaques and sculptures, were looted from the Kingdom of Benin (modern-day Nigeria) during a British military expedition in 1897.

FAQ: Repatriation and Cultural Heritage

• What is repatriation? The act of returning cultural property to its country of origin.
• Why is repatriation important? It addresses historical injustices, allows communities to reconnect with their heritage, and promotes cultural preservation.
• What are the main obstacles to repatriation? Legal complexities, institutional resistance, and debates over ownership and custodianship.

Pro Tip: Follow organizations like the About Africa for updates on repatriation efforts and related news.

The story of Relooted is more than just a game release; it’s a reflection of a changing world, where digital platforms are empowering new voices and challenging established norms. As the debate over cultural heritage continues, expect to see more innovative approaches – both virtual and real – aimed at righting historical wrongs and ensuring that cultural treasures are returned to their rightful homes.

What are your thoughts on the role of video games in social and political activism? Share your opinions in the comments below!