Relooteed: New Video Game Challenges Colonial-Era Artifact Looting
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Johannesburg, South Africa – A daring virtual heist is underway in “Relooteed,” a new action video game where players reclaim African artifacts held in Western museums. developed by Nyamakop studio, the game tackles the complex issue of artifact repatriation and colonial-era looting, placing players in the shoes of those seeking to restore cultural heritage.
Recovering History: The Premise of Relooteed
In “Relooteed,” players navigate a futuristic world where they recover 70 real-world artifacts taken from African countries during colonization. Producer Sithe Ncube emphasizes that the game features a “team of African citizens” dedicated to reclaiming thes items. Among the artifacts are the Benin Bronzes, sculptures looted from the Kingdom of Benin by British forces over a century ago, and the sacred NGADJI drum of the Pokomo people of Kenya, seized in 1902 [1].
Did You Know? The British Museum holds approximately 73,000 objects from sub-Saharan Africa,many acquired during the colonial period [1].
The Impact of Looting on African Identity
The game highlights the profound impact of colonial looting on African identity.As Samba Yonga,co-founder of a digital museum on Zambian women’s history,explains,the removal of these artifacts has deprived communities of their “archives” and “knowledge systems.” She argues that returning these objects could reshape how future generations perceive their culture and identity.
Ethical Dilemmas: Is it Theft to Reclaim What Was Stolen?
The game directly confronts the ethical questions surrounding artifact recovery. One scene features characters debating whether reclaiming stolen artifacts constitutes theft. This prompts players to consider the moral complexities of repatriation and the lasting effects of colonialism.
Pro Tip: Consider the long-term impact of cultural heritage loss on communities when evaluating the ethics of artifact repatriation.
Growing Interest in Repatriation
The release of “Relooteed” coincides with increasing calls for Western institutions to return looted artifacts. In June 2024, the Netherlands officially returned artifacts to Nigeria, signaling a growing recognition of the importance of repatriation [2]. The game’s presentation at the Summer Game Fest in Los Angeles generated important interest, particularly among the African diaspora.
| Artifact | Origin | Current Location (Simulated in Game) | Ancient Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benin Bronzes | Kingdom of Benin (present-day Nigeria) | Various Western Museums | Looted by British forces in 1897 |
| NGADJI Drum | Pokomo People, Kenya | Simulated Western Museum | confiscated by British colonial authorities in 1902 |
| “Man from Broken Hill” Skull | Zambia | London Natural History Museum | 300,000-year-old hominid skull |
Ncube notes the personal impact of this history, recalling that Africans frequently enough need visas and expensive flights to see artifacts that are part of their own culture. She hopes “Relooteed” will raise awareness and inspire dialogue about these issues.
What are your thoughts on the ethics of artifact repatriation? How can video games contribute to discussions about cultural heritage?
Evergreen Insights: The Broader Context of artifact Repatriation
The debate surrounding artifact repatriation is not new. For decades, African nations and communities have been calling for the return of cultural objects taken during the colonial era. These objects, often housed in Western museums, represent a significant part of African history and identity. The push for repatriation reflects a growing awareness of the injustices of colonialism and a desire to reclaim cultural heritage.
The UNESCO 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property is a key international agreement addressing the issue of stolen cultural artifacts [3]. While not retroactive,it set a precedent for international cooperation in protecting cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions About artifact Repatriation
Why is artifact repatriation important?
Repatriation restores cultural heritage to communities, allowing future generations to connect with their history and identity.
What are some of the challenges in repatriating artifacts?
Challenges include legal complexities,logistical issues,and resistance from institutions holding the artifacts.
What role can technology play in preserving and sharing cultural heritage?
Digital museums and virtual reality can provide access to artifacts and cultural experiences for people worldwide.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a video game and the topic of artifact repatriation. It does not offer legal or ethical advice.
Share your thoughts! What other historical events would make for compelling video game narratives?
