Imagine a video game where you're not just playing for fun, but also fighting for historical justice. That's the premise of Relooted, a groundbreaking new game from African studio Nyamakop, which challenges players to reclaim stolen African artifacts from museums and private collections, returning them to their rightful owners. But here's where it gets controversial: every artifact you steal in the game is real, sparking a debate about the ethics of cultural repatriation and the role of entertainment in addressing historical wrongs.
In Relooted, players step into the shoes of Nomali, a parkour-loving young woman who returns to Johannesburg to visit family. Frustrated by Western museums' reluctance to return African artifacts—despite international treaties—Nomali is recruited by her grandmother to lead a team of heist specialists. Their mission? Infiltrate heavily guarded institutions and mansions to reclaim treasures that were looted during colonial times. And this is the part most people miss: the game isn't just about thrilling heists; it's a powerful statement on the ongoing struggle for cultural restitution.
According to Mohale Mashigo, the game's narrative director, Relooted avoids inventing history because the truth is already compelling. "We didn't have to make anything up about these artifacts, because the history is out there," Mashigo explains. This commitment to reality sets the game apart, grounding its fictional heists in a very real, very urgent global conversation.
But is this just a game, or a call to action? Critics might argue that Relooted romanticizes theft, while others see it as a bold statement against cultural exploitation. The game doesn’t shy away from this tension, inviting players to think critically about the artifacts they’re reclaiming. For instance, one early mission involves stealing the Benin Bronzes, a collection from modern-day Nigeria, some of which remain in British museums despite repatriation efforts.
Nyamakop’s creative director, Ben Myres, was initially hesitant to create an "African-themed" game, fearing it might be too risky. However, the success of Black Panther in 2018 shifted his perspective. "Maybe now's the time to do it," he said. Yet, Myres and his team were determined to avoid the 'Wakandification' of African stories—the tendency to portray Africa through a lens of fantasy rather than reality. "These are real countries, real artifacts," Mashigo emphasizes. "We don't run into the danger of turning this into a fictionalized version of Africa."
Gameplay-wise, Relooted blends classic adventure-puzzle mechanics with modern, fast-paced platforming. Each level begins with Nomali 'casing the joint,' planning her route and assessing security measures like auto-sealing doors and drones. Once the heist begins, players race against time, dodging obstacles and using team members' unique abilities to pull off increasingly complex missions. Think Ocean's Eleven, not Heat—no shootouts, just strategic, adrenaline-fueled heists.
The game’s charm lies in its characters and storytelling. Nomali’s relationships with her crew, especially her family, add depth to the narrative. Her love-hate dynamic with her younger brother Trevor and her respect for her grandmother feel authentic and relatable. However, the game isn’t without its frustrations. A single misstep in planning can lead to a cascade of failures, forcing players to rethink their entire strategy. It’s a love letter to classic point-and-click adventure games, where logistical puzzles can be as rewarding as they are maddening.
Relooted is more than just a game; it’s a cultural statement and an educational tool. Like the Assassin's Creed series, it introduces players to historical narratives they might not encounter otherwise. But Myres is quick to clarify: "If someone steals an artifact and leaves a note like, 'This one's for Relooted,' I will be like... ohhh. That's a little awkward." The game encourages awareness, not real-life imitation.
Available now on PC and Xbox (including Game Pass), Relooted is a must-play for gamers who enjoy thought-provoking storytelling and challenging gameplay. But here’s the question we leave you with: Does Relooted go too far in its portrayal of artifact reclamation, or is it a necessary step in bringing attention to a long-overlooked issue? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s just getting started.
