Nyamakop, an African-based studio, has released a new video game called “Relooted,” where players are challenged to retrieve African artifacts from museums and private residences to return them to their rightful historical owners. While the game may appear fictional, the developers emphasize that all the featured artifacts are authentic.
The narrative director of “Relooted,” Mohale Mashigo, highlighted that the game’s storyline draws from real historical facts without the need for fabrication. The game follows Nomali, a young woman skilled in parkour and free running, who embarks on a mission in a near-future Johannesburg to reclaim African artifacts hidden away by Western museums, contrary to a repatriation treaty.
It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of African artifacts are held outside the continent, with a significant percentage located in Western institutions due to past colonial looting. In a specific mission within the game, players are tasked with retrieving Benin Bronzes, part of Nigeria’s Kingdom of Benin collection, some of which still remain in British museums.
Nyamakop’s previous game, “Semblance,” did not overtly reflect the studio’s African roots. However, inspired by the thematic elements of the Marvel movie “Black Panther,” creative director Ben Myres felt compelled to create an African-themed game grounded in reality to avoid the fictional portrayal of Africa seen in movies like “Black Panther.”
In “Relooted,” players experience a mix of adventure, puzzle-solving, and strategy as they guide Nomali and her team through intricate heists to reclaim stolen artifacts. The game’s focus on planning, strategy, and teamwork sets it apart from traditional action-based heist games, offering a unique gameplay experience.
As players progress through the game, they encounter diverse characters, each contributing unique skills to aid in the heists. The gameplay mechanics emphasize planning, speed, and precision, requiring players to master escape routes and refine their strategies to achieve faster completion times.
“Relooted” not only provides an entertaining gaming experience but also sheds light on African history and the impact of colonialism on cultural artifacts. Myres aims to educate players about lesser-known African stories and hopes the game serves as a platform to explore and appreciate the rich history of the continent.
Scheduled for release on Feb. 10 on PC and Xbox, including Xbox Game Pass, “Relooted” offers players an immersive and educational journey into the world of African art and history, crafted by a talented team of developers at Nyamakop.