A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Reconstructing Arctic as Gamescape: Historical Authenticity in Arctico and Never Alone




AuthorsXue, Chenru

PublisherWiderScreen

Publication year2024

JournalWiderScreen

Volume27

Issue 1–2

ISSN1795-6161

Web address https://widerscreen.fi/numerot/1-2-2024-widerscreen-27/strongreconstructing-arctic-as-gamescape-historical-authenticity-in-emarctico-emand-emnever-alone-em-strong/


Abstract

This article investigates two video games, Arctico (2022) and Never Alone (2014), to examine their roles in constructing a spatial-temporal landscape imbued with historical authenticity. This article uses non-representational theories to argue that video games immerse players in a historically rich experience, blending emotional and practical elements. This approach emphasizes the interplay between representational elements – such as mythology, history, culture, and rhetoric – and non-representational elements like memory, experience, and emotion. This study sees video games as a conduit for historical representation, offering a unique interpretation of the Arctic’s portrayal and seeking to understand how affective experiences within the gamescape contribute to a player’s sense of engagement. This comparative analysis reveals that video games, through their interactive medium, offer alternative narratives and understandings of historical authenticity.



Last updated on 2025-27-01 at 18:56