Mayan Influences in Video Games
The Mayan civilization, with its intricate mythology, towering pyramids, and mysterious prophecies, has long fascinated historians and storytellers alike. In the world of video games, developers have drawn inspiration from Mayan culture to create immersive worlds filled with ancient ruins, cryptic puzzles, and hidden treasures. Games like ‘Tomb Raider’ and ‘Assassin’s Creed’ stand out for their detailed exploration of this ancient civilization’s themes, blending historical accuracy with thrilling gameplay.
Tomb Raider: The Shadow of the Maya
One of the most notable examples is ‘Shadow of the Tomb Raider’ (2018), which takes protagonist Lara Croft deep into the jungles of Central America, where she encounters Mayan-inspired temples, artifacts, and rituals. The game’s setting, Paititi, is heavily influenced by ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Maya.
Players navigate through dense rainforests, decipher Mayan glyphs, and engage in puzzle-solving within grand pyramids that resemble real-world sites like Tikal and Chichén Itzá. The game also incorporates elements of Mayan mythology, including the god Kukulkan, known as the Feathered Serpent. While some aspects are fictionalized for dramatic effect, the developers at Crystal Dynamics and Eidos-Montréal made an effort to include historically accurate details, from architecture to language.
Assassin’s Creed and the Mayan Connection
The ‘Assassin’s Creed’ franchise is known for its deep historical settings, and ‘Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag’ (2013) introduces players to Mayan artifacts and temples. As the pirate-turned-assassin Edward Kenway explores the Caribbean, he stumbles upon Mayan relics linked to the mysterious First Civilization, a recurring element in the series’ lore.
A side quest in the game challenges players to find and solve Mayan Stelae puzzles scattered across the map. These puzzles, inspired by real Mayan stelae—stone monuments carved with inscriptions—unlock an ancient suit of armour when completed. Though the game takes liberties with the historical accuracy of this ancient civilization’s culture, it successfully integrates its architectural grandeur and symbolic depth into the narrative.
Why Mayan Culture Works So Well in Video Games
Mayan civilization is a perfect fit for video games due to its combination of mystery, adventure, and striking visuals. The civilization’s elaborate temples and underground tombs provide engaging level design opportunities, while its mythology allows for the inclusion of supernatural or sci-fi elements.
Additionally, the Maya’s real-life mathematical and astronomical achievements—such as their advanced calendar system—lend themselves to intricate puzzles that challenge players intellectually, making their inclusion in games both entertaining and educational.
From ‘Tomb Raider’ to ‘Assassin’s Creed’, Mayan influences in video games serve as a bridge between history and interactive storytelling. While these games may not always be 100% accurate, they help introduce players to the rich cultural heritage of the Maya, sparking curiosity and interest in one of history’s most fascinating civilizations.
Also Read: Wiccan Symbolism in Video Games
–Silviya.Y
