Nyamakop, an African-based studio, has launched a new video game called “Relooted.” In this game, players are challenged to steal African artifacts from museums and private mansions in order to return them to their rightful historical owners. While the game may seem purely fictional, the creators emphasize that all the featured artifacts are real and rooted in history.
“Relooted’s” narrative director, Mohale Mashigo, highlighted that the game draws on actual artifacts, eliminating the need for fictional creations. Players assume the role of Nomali, a young woman with a background in athletics, parkour, and free running. Nomali, who has returned to Johannesburg from Tanzania, is recruited by her grandmother to lead a small team in infiltrating museums and collectors’ mansions to retrieve key artifacts and return them to Africa.
The game sheds light on the issue of African artifacts being held outside the continent, with estimates suggesting that a significant number are in Western institutions. Many of these artifacts were looted by Western colonialists and either ended up in museums or on the black market. One of the early missions in “Relooted” involves reclaiming two Benin Bronzes, part of a collection belonging to the Kingdom of Benin, now Nigeria.
Nyamakop’s previous game, “Semblance,” did not overtly reflect the studio’s African roots. However, creative director Ben Myres, based in Johannesburg, was inspired to create an African-themed game following the success of “Black Panther.” The team aimed to ground the game in reality to avoid the ‘Wakandification’ of African narratives.
In “Relooted,” players are immersed in a gameplay experience where they plan heists, assess security, and execute missions to liberate artifacts. The focus is on strategic planning and avoiding direct confrontations, setting the game apart from traditional heist games. The game’s story is enriched by compelling voice work and vibrant art, offering players a blend of adventure, puzzle-solving, and speed-based challenges.
Through “Relooted,” Nyamakop seeks to introduce players to African history and narratives while providing an engaging gaming experience. The game invites players to explore a fictional world inspired by real African artifacts and stories, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and repatriation.