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Shoichi Yokoi: The Soldier Who Fought WWII for 28 Extra Years

Throughout history, stories of bravery and determination shine as examples of the human spirit. One such story is of Shoichi Yokoi, a Japanese sergeant in the Imperial Japanese Army. Yokoi refused to surrender for 28 years after the conclusion of World War II. His strong determination, fueled by belief, shows how resilient people can be.

Early Life and War Days

Shoichi during the early days of World War II.
Source: Wikipedia

Born in Aichi  Prefecture, Japan, in 1915, Yokoi was the youngest of four siblings. His upbringing on the farm nurtured a strong work ethic, and his inclination toward academics and sports showcased his versatile talents. 

When war clouds gathered in 1941, Yokoi’s life took a fateful turn as he was drafted into the Japanese army. He was stationed in Guam by 1943, playing the role of an anti-aircraft unit.

Guam saw fierce battles between Japanese forces and US troops when World War II broke out. In 1945, when Japan’s defeat became inevitable, American troops invaded Guam. Faced with impending defeat, Yokoi and his two teammates made a choice that reshaped their fates: fleeing into the jungle to avoid capture.

A Life in Hiding: Shoichi Yokoi’s Story of Survival and Redemption Jungle)

Recreation of Yokoi's hiding place in the jungle.
Source: Wikipedia (Recreation of Yokoi’s Hiding Place in the Guam Jungle)

On August 15, 1945, Emperor Hirohito announced Japan’s unconditional surrender, marking the end of World War II. However, Yokoi and his companions were kept from reliable information sources, believing that surrender was a trap devised by the Americans to trick them into surrendering. 

For nearly three decades, Yokoi and his comrades lived in the wilderness of Guam. They skillfully build shelters, cultivate crops, and hunt wild animals for food. According to the Washington Post, Yokoi utilized his tailoring abilities to craft clothing from tree bark and tracked time by observing the moon’s phases. The radio they managed to build could not receive signals from Japan after 1945. 

Yokoi writes in his book:

“I lived in constant fear of being discovered by the enemy. I often heard noises in the jungle, and I had to fight the urge to run.”

As the years pass into decades, Yokoi’s two comrades leave the jungle to surrender. Yokoi was the last of the three to surrender. 

The Long Road Back: Shoichi Yokoi’s Return to Japan After 28 Years

Shoichi Yokoi on the day of his return to Japan.
Source: Smithsonianmag

January 24, 1972, marked a turning point in Yokoi’s life. Local fishermen Manuel De Gracia and Jesus Duenas stumbled across Yokoi’s camp in the thicket. At first, Yokoi’s distrust of these strangers was evident, but gradually trust was established. The fishermen, realizing the seriousness of the situation, took Yokoi to the authorities. 

The event was also reported in the local news media. The headline in the Guam Daily News on January 25, 1972, read “Japanese Soldier Found Alive in Jungle.” The article described how the fishermen discovered Yokoi and quoted him as saying he was “happy to be alive.”

Early and old age picture of Shoichi Yokoi.
Source: BBC New

When Yokoi returned, Japan was filled with emotion and celebration. According to the book The Last Japanese Holdouts: A Hidden History of World War II by Yuki Tanaka, Shoichi Yokoi’s first words after being discovered by the fishermen were:

“It is with much embarrassment that I have returned alive.”

Yokoi felt humiliated by his inability to submit to the enemy for 28 years. He thought he had failed his country and his family. He was relieved, though, to be alive and to be able to return home.

Shoichi with his psychologists being diagnosed with post-war symptoms.
Source: Guampedia

Yokoi’s first comments are a stark reminder of the psychological toll that conflict can take. He’d been struggling for so long that he’d lost touch with time and reality. He was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and survivor’s guilt. 

Dr. Masaaki Kaku, a psychologist, saw Yokoi’s case as a prime example of war’s psychological effects. Kaku believed Yokoi was brainwashed by the military and lost his ability to think independently due to long jungle isolation.

Yokoi’s Legacy

Shoichi presenting his book which tells his story.
Source: Guampedia

Shoichi Yokoi’s return marked a new phase, trying to fit into a rapidly changing world. He felt nostalgic for the past and critiqued modern innovations. Despite the challenges, he entered an arranged marriage in 1972, ran for Parliament in 1974, and shared his story through a bestselling book and lectures. 

However, Yokoi never felt comfortable in modern society. He revisited Guam multiple times before passing away in 1997, highlighting his enduring connection with the place that defined his unique journey.

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Big History Blog Posts Characters History History Adventures Learning Materials

The Story of Tsutomu Yamaguchi, Who Survived Multiple Nuclear Attacks

One of the most unique and sad tales of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings is of Tsutomu Yamaguchi, who experienced both bombings and lived to tell the story. His terrifying encounters provide a window into the atrocities of nuclear conflict and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unfathomable suffering.

Early Life and Career

A picture of Tsutomu in his youth.
Image by: India Times

Tsutomu Yamaguchi was born in Nagasaki, Japan, on March 16, 1916. He belonged to a simple, rural Japanese family. Yamaguchi was a gifted student who thrived in the classroom. Later, he pursued his engineering degree at Tokyo’s Waseda University.

One of the pictures of the legendary Tsutomu Yamaguchi.
Image by: Wikipedia

Yamaguchi returned to Nagasaki after receiving his degree and started working for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, one of the country’s most prominent businesses. He was responsible for working at the company’s shipyard in Hiroshima, where he witnessed the detonation of the first atomic weapon.

Hiroshima Bombing

The devastating after-effects in Hiroshima after the nuclear bombing.
Image by: The National WWII Museum

Yamaguchi visited Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, as part of a tour for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. He had just completed a meeting when he noticed a bright flash in the sky while returning to his hotel. In an interview with The Guardian, he subsequently described the incident as follows:

“I saw a light, a bright light, and I heard a noise, a really loud noise, like the sound of a big explosion. I was thrown into the air, and everything went dark.”

Yamaguchi was only three kilometers from the explosion’s core when it occurred. He had extensive burns all over his body, debris in his head, and other serious wounds. Despite his injuries, he returned to his hotel and spent the night in agony.

Yamaguchi found a train the following day and returned to Nagasaki, where he got medical attention for his wounds. 

Nagasaki Bombing

Aftermath of the Nagasaki bombing which left the area in ruins.
Image by: GBH

Despite his injuries, Yamaguchi returned to work at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries just days after the Hiroshima bombing. He was determined to help his country get back on its feet. However, fate had other plans for him.

On August 9, 1945, just three days after the Hiroshima incident, Yamaguchi was at work in Nagasaki when he heard the whistling sound of an incoming bomb. He immediately recognized the sound and realized that a second atomic attack was about to happen.

Yamaguchi narrated the bombardment of Nagasaki in his own words:

“Suddenly, the sky went black, and there was a tremendous noise. I felt myself being thrown into the air again, and when I looked up, I saw a mushroom cloud forming over the city.”

This time, Yamaguchi was just two kilometers from the explosion’s core. Once more, he was severely hurt, his body covered in burns and scars. He spent hours under the debris before being freed and brought to the hospital.

The Aftermath of the Bombing

The destruction caused by the bombing attacks.
Image by: All that’s Interesting

Yamaguchi resisted telling others his story in the years directly following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He battled to cope with the trauma of his experiences and was plagued by survivor’s guilt, like many other bomb survivors.

In Japan, there was a widespread belief that survivors of the bombings carried a greater risk of health problems and genetic defects. Many survivors faced discrimination in employment, housing, and other areas of life as a result.

Anti-Nuclear War Activism

A news article related to Tsutomu Yamaguchi.
Image by: Facebook

Yamaguchi started talking about his encounters publicly decades later, in the 1950s. In 2005, Yamaguchi discussed his initial reluctance to share his tale in an interview with The Guardian. He said:

“At first, I did not want to talk about it, even to my family. I did not want to relive the memories of that terrible day. But as I grew older, I realized that it was my duty to tell my story, to bear witness to what happened.”

To raise awareness of the horrors of nuclear war and the necessity of striving for a peaceful world, he shared his story in several interviews, including those with the New York Times and the BBC. 

In 2006, he gave a speech and spread his message of peace in the United Nations. The Japanese government honored Yamaguchi with the Order of the Rising Sun in 2009 for his anti-nuclear activism. 

Death and Legacy

Old age picture of Yamaguchi.
Image by: Cultural News

Tsutomu Yamaguchi lived a long life after surviving the two atomic bomb attacks, and he passed away on January 4, 2010, at 93 from stomach cancer.

In the years following his death, numerous people and groups have continued Tsutomu Yamaguchi’s legacy. The “Tsutomu Yamaguchi Legacy of Hope Foundation,” founded in 2015 to foster peace, education, and cultural exchange, is among the most well-known.

In addition to the foundation, many other people and organizations worldwide have continued Yamaguchi’s legacy. His life has been the topic of books, documentaries, and other media. His support for disarmament and peace motivates people to work toward a more fair and peaceful world.

Conclusion

Tsutomu Yamaguchi’s survival of both atomic bombings is a powerful reminder of the human cost of nuclear war and the importance of peace. His life serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. He said, “I don’t want anyone else ever to experience what I experienced. I don’t want anyone to suffer the way I suffered.”

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Books Characters History History Adventures Learning Materials

7 Best Graphic Novels About the Ancient World

a woman with graphic novels

The ancient world is full of interesting events, historical battles, centennial disputes, and classical themes hidden between boring old history books.

If you’re keen to learn about the happenings of the ancient world in a far more captivating way, graphic novels are your best bet. Alternate realities paired with enthralling visuals highlight historical events from various perspectives.

Here are some of the best graphic novels about the ancient world that will leave you mesmerized by the past:

1. Rome West

323 CE

Image by AIPTcomics

Exploring an alternate reality of the New World, a thousand years before Columbus, Rome West offers a vivid description of world events through the eyes of a Roman family. 

The engaging graphics cover themes of revolution and expansion as the Romans experience war in America. The authors make you deep dive into the ancient world through questions of ‘what if?’ as Romans change the course of America’s history, establishing a colony 1000 years before the arrival of Columbus.  

2. Perpetua’s Journey

203 CE

Image by Goodreads

Perpetua’s journey illustrates the tale of Vibia Perpetua, an openly declaring Christian mother residing in Roman Africa, ordered to death for professing her religion. The graphic novel offers a combination of powerful themes such as feminism and Christianity.

The detailed illustrations induce visual storytelling of the ancient Phoenician city of Carthage, where Christianity gains popularity. It moves readers into reimagining life as a Christian woman in Roman North Africa in 203 CE. 

3. 300

480 BC

Image by Amazon

If you enjoy fictional retelling of historical battles, the 300 comic series is the one for you. Adapted into the world-renowned film ‘The 300 Spartans’, this comic book depicts the Battle of Thermopylae and Sparta’s King Leonidas’ attempt to invade Persia.

With its gritty yet beautiful art, the 300 comic series engulfs the reader in the tale of Spartans as they launch themselves into battle. Hyper-violent scenes combined with well-written dialogue become enjoyable for readers interested in ancient wars.  

Frank Miller’s brilliant art and storytelling make the 300 comic series one of the best graphic novels about the ancient world.

4. The Book of Genesis

5th and 6th BC

Image by Wikipedia

A quite literal illustration of the original ‘Book of Genesis’, this graphic novel reproduces the Bible word by word. Albeit its controversial nature, Robert Crumb manages to lend the illustrations his unique perspective on the human condition.

Readers can appreciate Crumb’s signature scratchy and heavily cross-hatched drawing style for all illustrations that provide a humanizing effect to the characters. Instead of giving the religious text a satirical touch, the comics are a must-read, honest and genuine interpretation of the Bible.

5. The Pack

1351-1334 BC

Image by Amazon

The Pack is intense and full of action as it tells the story of two Nubian slave assassins in Ancient Egypt assigned to kill Pharaoh Seti of the Southern Kingdom. Their trials and tribulations are portrayed in a unique painterly style.

The author uses a combination of visual and verbal, including Egyptian hieroglyphs, to add variety and a nice ancient touch to the story. Instead of whitewashing the tale, the protagonists are shown to be dark-skinned Africans which adds even more dimension.

The Pack will transport you to an Ancient Egyptian Tale you won’t forget soon!

6. Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne

 Pre-history

Image by Wikipedia

In this action-packed, time-spanning graphic novel, Bruce Wayne finds himself at the dawn of history, fighting evil cavemen through the power of his famous utility belt. As he becomes engrossed in battle, he is transported first to Puritan times and then to the 18th Century.

The comics follow the superhero across different ancient time zones as he builds himself an identity and fights crime. The time-traveling Bruce Wayne is featured in the spotlight through a signature superhero style. 

7. Batman Ninja

1185-1603 CE

Image by Amazon

This animated feature places the Dark Knight in feudal Japan, where the hero’s worst enemies take the form of feudal lords. Combining the Hero vs. Villain action with an ancient setting, Batman Ninja is one of the finest renditions in the Batman series.

Incorporating an anime style into the visuals, the story becomes even more interesting for fans. This animation imparts a unique touch to the Batman franchise, capturing the heroic nature of Batman within a land ruled by sword-yielding Samurais and Ninjas as assassins.

Final Word

The ancient world is filled with fascinating events waiting to be discovered. All of these amazing graphic novels are a must-read to dive into history. 

Additionally, you can also check out History Adventure’s Chrome browser web app, Global Pandemics: Plague of Athens, which tells the story of Nikos of Athens, a physician during the Plague of Athens, 429 BCE, who struggles to treat the multitude who fall ill during this world-upending ordeal, causing him to question everything he holds dear, from his faith in Apollo, healer under the gods, to the meaning of his Hippocratic Oath, and what is truly at stake in medical ethics.

Make sure to add these best graphic novels about the ancient world to your reading list and get enlightened about history in a captivating and exciting way. 

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Characters History History Adventures Learning Materials

6 Best Games About Ancient Rome

If a period or setting in history has the most potential to be turned into video games, it’s ancient Rome. Due to the extensive historical documents describing the fantastic people, locations, and traditions of a civilization that lasted over 1,500 years, Rome is one of the most fascinating ancient societies.

The fall of Rome was one of Europe’s most tumultuous periods, and since Roman civilization influenced so many countries, it has captivated people’s interest for ages. There are numerous Rome-inspired books, movies, games, and even fashion!

For now, let’s focus on the best games about Ancient Rome. This best demonstrates how playing and learning may be combined in minutes.

1. Rome: Total War

Game Release Year: 2004

Historical Period: 270 BC to 14 AD

Image by Wikipedia

With its outstanding campaign and addicting core gameplay, Rome: Total War is a real treat for any enthusiast of the Roman era. Most people didn’t think it was feasible to combine real-time strategy and turn-based gameplay, but Creative Assembly did it. Rome: Total War was the first of several games that combined many characters on the screen, allowing players to combat the army against a single console.

The game depicts the peak and last centuries of the Republican period and the initial years of Ancient Rome’s imperial era. At first, the user assumes charge of one of three Roman dynasties, with other non-Roman clans becoming available later.

It gives a thorough understanding of the Roman army’s structure and how the Romans controlled the inhabitants of towns and cities. It also requires the player to think clearly and sensibly to become the Roman Empire’s Ruler. This is what makes it one of the best games about Ancient Rome.

2. Ryse: Son of Rome

Game Release Year: 2013

Historical Period: 54-68 AD

Image by Pinterest

Ryse: Son of Rome is based in Ancient Rome during Nero’s reign, a fascinating period in the empire’s history. While the majority of the game takes place far outside Rome, in Britannia, on the outskirts of the empire, we get a fair look at numerous historical facts and personalities along the way.

The personalities are not a hundred percent historically correct but are inspired by actual events. These include Nero: Rome’s emperor, warrior queen Boudica, Commodus and Basillius: children of Nero and Damocles amongst many others! With a surprisingly sophisticated combat system, players will engage in large-scale conflicts and gladiatorial clashes in the field.

3. Age of Decadence

Game Release Year: 2015

Historical Period: 395 AD Fall of the Roman Empire

Image by Youtube

The game is set in a world based on the collapse of the Roman Empire. Age of Decadence has a sophisticated turn-based combat system and a rich conversation and decision system that has a significant impact on how the world evolves around them.

As they engage in Roman politics and betrayals, gamers get to build their own identity. It’s also one of the few games that give you complete control over your character. You’ll be in Rome. As a politician, your job will be to keep Rome from breaking apart by avoiding hostile attacks. In essence, gamers must aid in the recovery of this civilization. However, because the narrative is set during the fall of the Roman Empire, there is no happy ending.

4. Shadow of Rome

Game Release Year: 2005

Historical Period: 48 BC

Image by Youtube

The storyline is a dramatized account of Julius Caesar’s assassination, centering on two main characters that the player will assume the role of. The first is Agrippa, a warrior whose father is suspected of murdering Caesar and is condemned to combat in gladiatorial theaters. The second is Octavianus, who embarks to prove Agrippa’s father’s righteousness.

In summary, it’s a wonderful chance to witness and participate in the Roman lifestyle. Players appreciate this old Roman game, which they see as both inventive and beautiful.

5. Assassin’s Creed: Origins

Game Release Year: 2017

Historical Period: 49-43 BC

Image by Forbes

The player assumes Bayek, a Medjay, and Aya, his wife, as they fight to defend the people of the Ptolemaic Empire during a period of massive uprisings. The Pharaoh, Ptolemy XIII, battles to preserve his authority while harboring desires to extend his kingdom.

Even though the game is centered in Ancient Egypt during the Ptolemaic period, gamers will still engage with historical personalities such as Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, Pompey Magnus, Brutus, Lucius Septimus, and others from Rome’s past.

Image by Youtube

6. Grand Ages: Rome

Game Release Year: 2009

Historical Period: 60-53 BC

Image by Youtube

Grand Ages: Rome is an empire-building and real-time strategy game set during the last period of the Roman Republic. The game depicts actual past events, such as the slave rebellion headed by Spartacus, a former gladiator, and allows players to choose between Julius Caesar and Pompey Magnus.

Players are entrusted with accomplishing missions and establishing a reputation as leaders and politicians. Players must keep the population happy by providing adequate food, religion, and amusement. When players struggle to meet the requirements of their people, crime and sickness may develop, and houses may be abandoned.

The list of best games about Ancient Rome does not end here. It is to get you started. These games not only allow you to get a taste of the Roman culture through characters and settings but also puts you in their shoes. This is because history is not only about learning what happened in the past. You also need to contemplate what could have happened and the possible consequences of those events. This is what these games allow you to do!

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Characters Historical Fiction History Learning Materials

6 Best Games about Alternate History: Learning History the Interesting Way

If you thought video games about history were the ultimate learning tool you needed, you are mistaken. While historic games give you facts and figures about significant past events, games about alternate history allow you to dissect events unlike anything else.

While learning history, often questions are asked about what could have occurred if a single event in history had been altered — a life spared, or possibly a life lost. Thinking about different angles and endings helps gain clarity and understanding about the cause of those events.

You can achieve this in the easiest, funniest way by playing some of the best games about alternate history. These games are incredibly imaginative and thrilling stories that combine genuine historical locations and events with fantasy. Here are some examples that you can try out!

1. Freedom Fighters

Image by Pinterest

After World War II, the US entered the Cold War. The Russian Empire started making its own nuclear arms and financing communist regime reforms worldwide. Although the superpowers never went to war, Freedom Fighters envisions a narrative where the Soviet Union invades New York.

In freedom fighters, you get to take on the role of Chris Stone, who is a plumber-turned-action hero. Together with his brother Troy, he is tasked with gathering rebels and ending the Soviet takeover of New York City.

2. Fallout

Image by Pinterest

In Fallout, China blasted the United States into a radioactive wasteland.  The fact that the 1950s never ended, yet technology evolved, is an intriguing aspect of the game. So, in addition to commercials, music, and fashion from the 1950s, there are robotics and plasma weapons. This difference generates the game’s comic tone amid immense terror, including it in one of the best games about alternate history.

The fallout shows odd equipment that runs on nuclear power because the transistor was never created after World War 2. Fallout uses a reality-based basis and twists it. There might be disastrous variations in how contemporary times played out if something as simple as the transistor was not created — a gadget that many individuals never think about.

3. Homefront

Image by Pinterest

The game’s narrative takes place in the 2010s when North Korea and superpowers clash over the country’s military aggressiveness, which includes a successful nuclear test and the loss of a South Korean ship.

The United States is shown in Homefront in a completely different light than it is presently, with a defense far from the most competitive in the world. As a result, it’s a prime target for a North Korean attack, and it’s up to you to incite a revolt that will liberate the country.

4. Bioshock

Image by Flickr

The alternate history of Bioshock is tough to determine since it exists in several different timelines. Essentially, it occurs in a world when technology progresses at a far quicker rate. This is why, in what seems to be the 1950s, there is essentially futuristic technology.

BioShock transports you to the wreckage of a failed Objectivist civilization. Rapture’s clientele has become substance maniacs addicted to ADAM, a DNA-modifying chemical. You play as Jack, who explores further inside Rapture to learn its mysteries and stop Andrew Ryan, the organization’s commander.

Because cities like Rapture are so remote and cut off from the rest of the world, there isn’t much historical data to draw on. However, it demonstrates a great deal in terms of American customs and beliefs in various situations.

5. Prey

Image by Pinterest

Prey alters history by failing the assassination attempt on President Kennedy, who would live until 2031. This leads to a period of scientific advancement that would result in far more space travel and research. The game goes on to show how you’ll be fleeing from strange aliens that appear to be on the verge of taking over the Earth.

The chronology in the game features humanity’s discovery of the Typhon, aggressive aliens with both physical and mental characteristics. The Typhon was discreetly kidnapped and held in the Kletka space shuttle by the USA and the USSR.

6. We Happy Few

Image by Pinterest

This alternate timeline depicts a World War 2 ending in which Hitler loses power and Germany becomes the German Empire. They then attacked England, which quickly submitted and survived the invasion. Considering how drastically different World War II would have turned out if Germany had control of Great Britain, We Happy Few is dangerously close to reality.

In this game, people living in the Wellington wells had to do something horrible with kids, so they invented a medication to help them recall. This, on the other hand, soon goes downhill. They are joyful because of the drug, but they have no morality. They experience visions and hit anyone who declines to take the pills.

Final Word

Players interested in history may enjoy the mentioned best games about alternate history that explore “what-if?” scenarios. These games follow and modify real history to produce new realities. But because they are based on the authentic culture and technology of the period, you get to learn a lot!

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Characters History History Adventures Learning Materials

Best Video Games About Old West: Take a Trip to the Past

old west games

Video games have evolved into one of the most effective means of transporting oneself to other worlds and timelines. If you love cowboys, you must have imagined yourself decked with the signature cowboy hat and leather boots, sitting on the back of a horse. Unfortunately, it took some time for video games about Old West to catch up.

Western video games are highly influenced by the cowboy media that came before them. Westerns were one of the most prominent cinema genres in the 1950s and 1960s. After a period of decline in the 1970s and 1980s, they resurfaced in the early 1990s. Around the same timeframe, western-themed games began to appear in arcades and on home consoles.

The modest West is an essential part of American identity. You must have heard about popular TV shows like Westworld and movies like Unforgiven. When the gaming developers chose to take on the responsibility of recreating the American West into our lives, they were under a lot of pressure to succeed. Fortunately, a few of them have completely grasped what it means to be a cowboy.

1.      Call of Juarez: Gunslinger

Call of Juarez: Gunslinger is an action-adventure game. While it has an unrelated narrative from its prequels, it is set in Wild West-like them. The entire concept and execution are brilliant, and the game makes excellent use of the historical context by seamlessly integrating it into the gameplay. You’ll have a blast shooting your way through Silas Greaves’ fascinating narrative and bringing down famous thieves along the way.

In fact, it’s Gunslinger’s narration that really stands out. Enemies, locations, and even time can alter right in front of your eyes as the levels mold themselves around the presented story. All of this adds up to an unexpected, extremely fun, and distinctive combat in Call of Juarez: Gunslinger.

2.      Red Dead Redemption

Red Dead Redemption is, without a doubt, one of the best video games about the old West. It is set around the start of the twentieth century when the unregulated and unpredictable badlands gave way to the government’s growing reach and the development of the Industrial Era.

Red Dead Redemption tells the narrative of former bandit John Marston and leads players on a grand adventure through the American wilderness. Players will face the intensity of gunfights and skirmishes, encounter a diverse cast of people, and combat the severity of one of the world’s few surviving wildernesses along the journey.

Red Dead Redemption is the only game that has taken a passionate and powerful approach to the era. The game not only depicts a previous world but also helps the player think about current events. It’s a must-play for everyone who enjoys the genre or good action adventures overall. Imagine if Red Dead Redemption was such a masterpiece, its successor Red Dead Redemption 2, must have really blown everyone away!

3.      Gun

Image from Gamespot

Until games like Red Dead Redemption were released that effectively mastered the western genre, videogames like Gun aimed to do the same thing only a generation before. Gun is a bold game set in the untamed West of the late-1800s. In an epic narrative of betrayal, greed, and vengeance, players journey across an action-packed wilderness setting, deserts, and busy towns.

You will get to participate in various side quests to improve your gun-slinging and horseback riding skills. Players can discover secret weapons and improve talents and abilities to increase the performance of their weaponry. With such refined gameplay, the only thing to complain about was that it could have been longer!

4.      Hard West

When a terrible sequence of affairs pushes one man onto a road of supernatural disaster and wrath, he must chase down all those who have mistreated him. You have to fight and survive in 8 different story-based situations, as well as over 40 uniquely created turn-based combat operations with your own team of 1-4 people.

Image from Ocean of Games

Characters are engaging, the visuals are fantastic, and the soundtrack is impressive in the Hard West. It is one of the most entertaining videogames of the old West, thanks to its excellent portrayal of history and the implications of your actions.

5.      Desperados: Wanted Dead or Alive

Image from hdpcgames

Desperados is a western-style game of strategic and tactical performance. In this character-based game, you’re recruited to hunt the bandits guilty for a train heist in the early Western frontier and must lead Cooper and his gang through 25 stages.

You are responsible for invading an enemy base, rescuing a team member, or fleeing an attack. What is there to complain about with striking visuals, realistic locations, and fascinating and unique characters? Nothing at all!  Desperados 2 Cooper’s revenge is a direct sequel to the previous game and is also surely worth checking out!

6.      Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath

Image from nintendo.co.uk

The game puts you in the position of The Stranger, a mysterious and dreaded bounty hunter. Stranger hunts and captures criminals throughout the game to receive rewards. The final aim is to gather enough moolah (in-game currency) to fund a mystery life-saving surgery.

Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath is a science fiction game largely influenced by western films. It is genuinely creative in its gameplay execution. With its beautiful and finely created masterwork, it provides a gaming experience unlike any other.

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Characters History History Adventures Learning Materials

Assassin’s Creed Games: Making History Lessons Fun

70+ Assassin's Creed II HD Wallpapers | Background Images
Photo by AlphaCoders

If you thought time travel was a farfetched possibility, you might be interested to see how you can experience something like it in your history class. Ever since the release of Assassin’s Creed in 2007, the video game has become more of an interactive history resource than just a game. You can travel back as far as the time of Alexandria or find yourself in the streets of Victorian London. With its variety of historical settings, characters and, detailed simulations, Assassin’s Creed is in fact a historical playground!

This article will evaluate and rank the Assassin’s Creed series in order of their historical engagement. Along with the game itself, the recent introduction of the Discovery feature lets you explore 75 guided tours ranging from 5-25 minutes. Gear up to experience history with one of the most popular action-adventure games!

Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (2010)

Photo by Ubisoft

This 2010 release is one of the most historically accurate Assassin’s Creed games. It gives you the chance to explore the Rome of 1499 with brilliantly detailed settings! This is the first chapter where Ezio travels to Rome, and the game is centered around dealing with Cesare Borgia. While you learn about Borgia’s fight for power in history books, Brotherhood lets you meet him and experience his temperament!

Assassin’s Creed III (2012)

Photo by G Style Magzine

Assassin’s Creed III sits next in line as the most engaging game come history lesson. This time, you are taken back to the historical marker of the American Revolution. Participate in the turmoil looming around Northern American in the late 1700s and meet the important figures firsthand! Beyond just reading the names of people like Benjamin Franklin and George Washington, this game offers you the chance to interact with them. As the game lets you scramble through old America, find yourself eliminating the colonial Templars and scheme against the assassinators of George Washington. You are at the front line of history! 

Assassin’s Creed (2007)

Photo by Ubisoft

The first edition of the series teaches history through an interesting mix of history and science fiction. Experience the Third Crusade with Desmond Miles. As you walk through The Holy Land, the assassins in this game take a neutral position with no strong side. In the quest for an artifact, the game provides a compelling narrative of the ancestors in the Third Crusades.

Assassin’s Creed: Unity (2014)

Photo by Ubisoft

Imagine Napoleon Bonaparte before he became the iconic general of his time! Unity provides a memorable experience of the events of the French Revolution. French Revolution was easily one of the turning points witnessed by the world. The game follows after Abstergo commercializes the Animus technology, so users can expect a reliving of the history of technology and entertainment. Ubisoft also managed to put forth a detailed replica of notable buildings like Notre Dame. Walk around France as you experience the political turmoil and differing ideas punctuating the French Revolution!

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (2013)

Photo by Ubisoft

Travel back in the time of Pirates with Black Flag! Pirates are undoubtedly one of the most interesting historical characters. Black Flag does a great job at depicting the age of pirates as users control Edward Kenway. As you play Black Flag, you are bound to put on your pirate hats since you will be navigating hugs maps, sailing in all directions, and unraveling the case between Templars within the British and Spanish empires!

Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018)

Photo by Ubisoft

Prepare to indulge in the longest game of the series with Odyssey! Going farther than the Egyptian times is a challenging task, but Odyssey makes a great attempt at depicting that world. Relive the years between 431-422 and witness the Peloponnesian War. As the game puts you in the shoes of a sellsword, you get to decide how the narrative in Greece unfolds.

Learning Through the Discovery Tours

Photo by Ubisoft

The introduction of Discovery Tours makes the Assassin’s Creed series a perfect fit for history lessons. With voice-over guides and details, the tours encapsulate everything from routine tasks to monuments and various settlers. Along with action adventures, you can also perform tasks like inscribing scrolls and kneading bread! The tours are made incredibly interactive with a variety of avatars to choose from.

Conclusion

It is evident that tons of historical research have gone into the creation of the series. They are changing the way history is learned and experienced in classrooms. The open worlds and historical timelines are splendidly depicted in every game. While each chapter does vary in terms of historical accuracy, you can expect to absorb plenty of facts and events as you enjoy playing the game!

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Characters History History Adventures

Dynasty Warriors: How Historically Accurate Is It?

dynasty warriors
dynasty warriors, a fascinating history game

You might argue that a video game has to be historically accurate before it is called a history game. What is the point of playing a history game if it has misleading facts and exaggerated stories?

However, we need to understand that when other sources inspire games, they tend to version it. To achieve drama and ensure entertainment, the creators will change the narrative to sensationalize it.

Dynasty Warriors, created by Omega Force and Koei, is a Japanese hack and slash video game. Before we decide how historically accurate the game is, let’s go through its chain of inspiration. The longer the chain, the more likelihood of changes occurring in the transition.

Chain of Inspiration

Image from Medium

This phenomenal hack-and-slash game series was prompted by Toei’s previous turn-based strategy game “Romance of the Three Kingdoms.” The strategy game takes its title from the same-named classic novel by Luo Guanzhong, which is one of traditional Chinese literature’s four great masterpieces.

Surprisingly the chain does not end here. That story is inspired by the late Han-era historian Chen Shou’s Chinese historical document “Records of the Three Kingdoms.”

As a result, despite the powerful epic aspects, the basis of the narrative is firmly grounded in reality. The names used are also kept from the historical document. However, it’s fair that the creator took full advantage of his creative freedom to make the game more attractive to a broader audience.

Concept

The central concept of the series was that it let the player be a “one-man army” against the thousands of opponents in ancient China. Even though academics agreed that battles between the two generals were exceedingly rare, Koei included exaggerated actions.

It recreated legendary battles that you may have read about and allows you to feel what it was like to be the greatest warrior of the day. It was undoubtedly uncommon at the time; even now, action games generally only have a few rivals to battle at a time.

With simple commands, players could do superhuman actions comparable to those performed by heroes from ancient myths.  Dynasty Warriors does an excellent job at it by allowing you to put yourself in the position of legendary fighters and experience their epic triumphs.

Image from standard.co.uk

You never again have to listen to or watch the account of Zhao Yun battling through the hordes of Cao Cao’s army; you may now fight the armies yourself and emerge victoriously.

Characters

Characters are an essential part of any narrative. The authenticity of the story depends on how realistically the people involved were portrayed. Despite being based on historical figures, the Dynasty Warriors game series is infamous for altering how specific historical figures were shown in Romance of the Three Kingdoms or ancient texts.

Image from proprofs.com

Zhang He was not the tall, egotistical guy shown in Dynasty Warriors. However, because he lacked other distinguishing characteristics, such as Xu Huang’s ax, Koei transformed him into a crazy character, entirely unlike the actual person. However, while new characters were continually being added to the roster, such characterization made various characters stand out.

Image from dynasty warriors fandom

Some protagonists, such as Zhuge Liang, Sima Yi, and Zuo Ci, have the power to wield magic in their assault, which adds a touch of mystique to the plot. Young women who did not engage in any conflicts in the text or reality (excluding Zhurong and Wang Yi) are presented as dangerously strong females with outstanding combat skills and weaponry.

Image from YouTube

Take another example, Lu Bü: Koei depicts him as the most powerful fighter of all, a frightening and powerful figure whom everyone fears. As per the source, he was a cunning man who lacked dignity and made several disastrous political and military decisions. As far as I recall, there is no talk of him being a great fighter anywhere; in fact, he is shown as more of a foolish person. That’s quite a change.

That’s essentially what they do with the majority of the characters. Most of them are only shortly described or not at all in Three Kingdoms. So Koei gives them a unique attitude and unexpected cool features. Understandably so, it’d be pretty dull if everyone looked and acted the same.

The video game may be derived from historical text, but it is nevertheless a videogame. To gain audience and popularity, it needs to have strong, bold characters with personalities users enjoy.

Conclusion

The Dynasty Warrior is a perfect game for children to learn about Chinese history. It allows them to think critically about why historical events developed the way they did and even consider alternate endings. This will encourage them more to read and research about history in ways textbook teaching will not be able to.

One thing to keep in mind regarding Koei’s historical simulation is that they don’t claim to be completely accurate. The purpose of the game is to instigate historical interest.  To learn more about the real history behind Dynasty Warriors parents can help children read the following:

  • Chinese Dynasties for Kids by Keith Goodman
  • Ancient History for Kids: Emperors of China by Left Brain Kids.

Happy learning!

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Big History Characters History History Adventures Learning Materials

6 Amazing Video Games About Ancient Japan

video games about history
Ancient japan video games

Beyond anime and manga, video games set in ancient Japan are excellent expressions of the rich Japanese culture. They can change the way you learn about the history of Japan, the important figures involved, and its scenic ancient landscapes. You can also relive some of the most popular Japanese folklores while you sit behind a screen with your console!

If you haven’t yet paid this country a visit, playing a video game set in old Japan is a great way to start your first journey! This article puts together 6 video games about ancient Japan that offer you a chance to travel back to the time of feudal samurai and ninjas!  

Total War Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai

Photo by MobyGames

Ever imagined how life would look like as a clan leader in ancient Japan?  Prepare to enter the period of warring Sengoku with the Fall of Samurai! Released in 2012, this PC game is centered around the age of growing clan culture in Japan, so you can expect several clan wars your way. As a clan leader, you will find yourself reclaiming your Japanese clan’s power and taking control of Kyoto. Get ready to intervene in an interesting period of Japan!

Ōkami

Photo by Ninetendo

It is time to become the hero of a story inspired by Japanese mythology! Playing Ōkami promises an incredible experience of classical Japan for the users. Players wander around the streets of ancient Japan as the goddess of the sun – Amaterasu.

The video game has a compelling narrative with a creative folklore twist. If Japanese legends were challenging to memorize in class, this video game would be a turning point for you. More than just a game, it is a learning experience about Japanese spiritual practices, legends, and myths! This action-adventure game was released in 2006 and is available on Play Station 2,3,4, Wii, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.

Picture by Den of Geek

Ghost of Tsushima

Picture by Den of Geek

Ghost of Tsushima is one of the best games to play if you are interested in some ancient roleplaying. As Jin, you take up the role of the protagonist who is on the mission to save his village. Set during the first Mongol invasion, the game has several one-on-one combats. While you roam around the feudal Japanese countryside, you will also encounter many historical landmarks. This game is highly cinematic, with special attention paid to the setting details. This is your chance to participate in ancient battles happening in ancient Japan! This 2020 release streams on Play Station 4 and 5.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Picture by WCCFtech

If you have heard about ninjas in books, it is time you take up the character of a ninja yourself! Travel back to the years between 1467 and 1615 in Japan with Shadows Die Twice. This game lets you step into the shoes of a Shinobi who is on the quest for revenge. Not only that, but you also get to experience the brutalities and turmoil encapsulating the late 1500’s Sengoku Japan. While the game is mostly centered around head-to-head combats and ninja abilities, the setting and story are also a great chance to get a taste of Japanese Buddhism! Shadows Die Twice was released in 2019 for Win, PS4, and Xbox One, while it started streaming on Stadia by late 2020.

Way of the Samurai

Picture by DFGames

Samurai were some of the key figures in Japanese history. This goes back to their role as exceptional warriors and their impact on Japanese culture and heritage to date. As you play Way of the Samurai, you will be on the frontline of the period between the fall of Tokugawa Shogunate and the rise of Meiji. This game does not only depict the traditional street culture of ancient Japan but also gives a heads up for how the military class evolved. This video game is all about exploration, side-quests, and mini-games where players get to decide how the narrative concludes! This made its way into the market in 2002 and is available on Play Station and Play Station portable.

Tenchu

Picture by The world of news

Experience what it is like to walk around a reimagined 16th century Japan with Tenchu. This video game provides an exciting adventure of directly encountering assassinations. However, this is no ordinary assassination game since you will be handed all the ninja moves and powers on your journey. This stealth game lets you experiment with Japanese weapons and tools to spy for Lord Gohda. Put on your ninja masks because you are about to get teleported to the time of ancient Japanese Ninja clans! The latest Tenchu release was in 2009. You can experience this marvelous game streaming on PlayStation 2, Xbox, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo DS, Xbox 360, and Wii.

Conclusion

These video games are not only action-packed but also serve as great lessons about Japan’s historical geography and the fascinating civilizations that inhabited it. By reliving characters of different Samurai, warriors, and ninjas, players learn about the evolution of Japanese heritage. These games also incorporate detailed settings to make the experience of walking around ancient Japan as realistic as possible. Turns out you can travel to ancient Japan from the comfort of your sofa!

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Characters History History Adventures Learning Materials

Fascinating Depiction of Pirates in Visual Media: Making Learning Fun

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If there’s one thing the majority of people would agree on, it’s that pirates are one of the coolest bunch of people to have ever lived on planet Earth.

Some might refer to pirates as evil because they kill and steal. But don’t they look fascinating while doing so? And that is precisely why these bewitching people have gained so much popularity and have become an important part of pop culture. Pirates started making appearances in movies, books, and other visual media in the late 18th century.

This blog post sheds light on the depiction and accuracy of pirates in visual media such as movies, comics, books, and video games. Happy reading!

Pirates in Movies

From Treasure Island and Black Bear Ghost to Pirates of the Caribbean and Muppet Treasure Island, the movies created on pirates are nothing short of brilliant entertainment. Seeing these fascinating characters fighting hard and showing their skills with ropes to attack the ships is truly an incredible experience.

As extraordinary as these fictional characters in the movies are, are they accurate? Let’s look at one example of a famous character and its historical accuracy.

Jack Sparrow in The Pirates of the Caribbean Movies

Image released by Disney

Played by Johnny Depp, Captain Jack Sparrow is a lovable character who ends up on the side of the good people. Jack Sparrow is smart and can charm his way out of troubles that present themselves to him.

It wouldn’t be unfair to call the depiction of pirates in this movie inaccurate. Jack was a leading member of the Brethren Court, representing the Brethren of the Coast in the late 17th century. In reality, these weren’t pirates but buccaneers and privateers. Moreover, Jack preferred to use his intelligence instead of force and power: a preference that most pirates stayed away from. Other depictions of his characters like turning undead as part of an Aztec curse are inaccurate too.

Pirates in Comics

How to make pirates more interesting? By making them a part of comics, of course. Pirates in comics have grabbed the attention of many kids and adults, sparking an interest in them to learn more about their exciting history.

These fictional characters go on exciting missions to steal and showcase their extraordinary skills. Of course, not all of these fictional characters are evil; some are on the side of the good too. But is that what real pirates are known for? Let’s have a look at an example.

Image by Den of Geek

Captain Harlock played a space pirate in the manga series “Space pirate Captain Harlock.” He is known as a fair and deeply moral man. Even though he is a pirate, he doesn’t do much stealing. In fact, he is even good to his enemies, something the real pirates are not known for.

When talking about piracy, most people picture pirates stealing and fighting on the seas. But that’s not accurate, at least not anymore. Being a pirate is a profession, and now, pirates definitely do not shy away from showcasing their skills in space too.

Pirates in Books

Image by Goodreads

Perhaps the most accurate medium about pirates depiction in visual media and their thriller lifestyles is books. One such book is Blackbeard: The Birth of America, written by Samuel Marquis. This book dug deep into the naval lifestyle of the famous golden age of piracy in the 17th century.

An illustration of Blackbeard, the famed pirate (North Wind Picture Archives / Alamy Stock Photo)

The writer focuses on the life and death of Edward Teach, playing the character Blackbeard in his book. Edward had an impact on early American history as well. He was one of the earliest revolutionaries who made a difference in the American Revolutionary war that was faced by North America about 50 years after his death.

Pirates in Video Games

When talking about pirates depiction in visual media, one can’t ignore video games. Perhaps children’s favorite! We don’t get to see a lot of games that adopt an accurate setting of the Golden Age of Piracy, but the famous game, “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag,” comes the closest. This game portrays a Caribbean setting of the 18th century into fictionalized storylines.

Image by Wallpaper Cave

Black Flag introduced the concept of sea travel, making the game even more interesting to play. Players can travel across the Caribbean and visit cities such as Kingston and Havana. Spanish, English, and Pirates are the three main factions present in these areas. Players have the option to either fight or trade with them.

Famous pirates like Blackbeard, Thatch, Calico, Mary Read, and Stede Bonnet cross paths in the game with captain Kenway, the main character in the game.