Nyamakop, an African-based game 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. Despite appearing fictional, the game features authentic artifacts sourced from real history, as emphasized by Mohale Mashigo, the narrative director of “Relooted.”
The game follows Nomali, a young woman with a background in athleticism, parkour, and free running, who returns to Johannesburg after a visit to Tanzania. Motivated by frustration over Western museums concealing African collections in defiance of repatriation agreements, Nomali and a small team embark on missions to reclaim key artifacts and restore them to their African origins.
It is estimated that a significant number of African artifacts are held outside the continent, with a majority in Western institutions due to past colonial looting. In “Relooted,” players undertake tasks such as recovering the Benin Bronzes, part of Nigeria’s Kingdom of Benin collection, which have been partially repatriated but remain in British museums.
Nyamakop’s previous game, “Semblance,” lacked clear African influences, but the success of “Black Panther” inspired a shift towards creating culturally grounded games. By incorporating real countries and artifacts, the studio aims to avoid the ‘Wakandification’ of African narratives, ensuring a balance between reality and fantasy in their storytelling.
The gameplay in “Relooted” involves strategic planning, avoiding security measures, and executing heists with a diverse team of characters possessing unique abilities. Unlike traditional heist games with combat elements, “Relooted” focuses on stealth and puzzle-solving mechanics, providing a refreshing experience in the gaming market.
With a mix of adventure, puzzles, and replay value, “Relooted” offers a compelling narrative enhanced by voice acting and vibrant visuals. While players may encounter challenges and setbacks akin to classic adventure games, the overall experience remains engaging and educational, shedding light on untold African stories and histories.
“Relooted” serves as a significant milestone for Nyamakop and introduces players to a fresh perspective on African narratives, akin to the historical depth found in games like Assassin’s Creed. As the game launches on PC and Xbox platforms, it invites players to delve into the rich tapestry of African heritage and embark on virtual adventures that blend fiction with reality.
