How Petroglyphs Influence Designs in Movies, Video Games, and Comic Books
Petroglyphs—ancient rock carvings etched into stone by early civilizations—have long fascinated historians and archaeologists. But beyond the world of academia, these primitive symbols have found a surprising home in modern media. From blockbuster movies and video games to comic books, petroglyph-inspired designs add mystery, cultural depth, and artistic flair to contemporary storytelling.
Petroglyphs in Movies: Mystical Clues and Forgotten Histories
Hollywood has frequently turned to petroglyphs to create an air of ancient mystery and adventure. Films like ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’ (2008) and ‘National Treasure’ (2004) use rock carvings as cryptic messages leading to hidden treasures. These symbols often serve as cinematic shorthand for forgotten knowledge, ancient civilizations, and supernatural power.
Sci-fi and fantasy films also draw inspiration from petroglyphs. In ‘Prometheus’ (2012), the discovery of ancient cave paintings across different cultures is the key to unlocking humanity’s connection to extraterrestrial beings. Similarly, ‘Black Panther’ (2018) incorporates African tribal symbols and rock art-inspired visuals into Wakanda’s rich cultural heritage.
Video Games: Decoding the Past Through Gameplay
The interactive nature of video games makes petroglyphs even more compelling. Many games use them as puzzles, environmental storytelling elements, or even direct plot devices.
In the ‘Tomb Raider’ and ‘Uncharted’ series, petroglyphs serve as clues that help players uncover hidden temples and ancient secrets. ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’ (2017) uses rock carvings to reveal the history of Hyrule, while ‘Horizon Zero Dawn’ (2017) incorporates cave paintings that hint at the downfall of past civilizations. These elements immerse players in a world where history and mythology blend seamlessly.
Some games take petroglyphs a step further by reimagining them as a unique visual language. ‘Shadow of the Colossus’ (2005) features ruins covered in glyph-like inscriptions, reinforcing the game’s theme of lost civilizations. Meanwhile, ‘Journey’ (2012) uses a glyph-based communication system, evoking the look and feel of ancient rock art to tell a silent yet deeply emotional story.
Petroglyphs in Comic Books: Ancient Art Meets Modern Storytelling
Comic book artists frequently incorporate petroglyph-inspired imagery to add cultural weight to their stories. In Marvel Comics, Thor’s adventures often reference Norse runes and rock carvings, blending myth with superhero narratives. DC Comics’ ‘Wonder Woman’ comics have used petroglyphs to link Themyscira’s history to real-world ancient art.
Independent and graphic novels also experiment with petroglyph aesthetics. ‘Coda’ (2018) by Simon Spurrier and Matías Bergara uses prehistoric-like symbols to depict a post-apocalyptic fantasy world. Similarly, ‘Sandman’ by Neil Gaiman often integrates ancient-looking glyphs to deepen the mythological atmosphere of its universe.
Why Petroglyphs Continue to Inspire Modern Media
Petroglyphs hold a unique appeal—they are mysterious, universal, and deeply connected to human history. Their presence in pop culture taps into our fascination with ancient knowledge, lost civilizations, and the idea that symbols can bridge the past and the present.
Whether used as mystical clues in films, immersive storytelling tools in video games, or artistic inspiration in comics, petroglyphs continue to shape modern media in ways that remind us of their enduring power. As technology evolves, it’s likely that these ancient symbols will continue to find new life in the digital age.
–Silviya.Y
