Introduction: Video games have the remarkable ability to transport players to fantastical worlds filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and awe-inspiring architecture. But what if I told you that some of these virtual realms are not as fictional as they seem? In fact, many video game developers draw inspiration from real-life locations when crafting their immersive game worlds. From ancient ruins to bustling cities, here are five game worlds that you can actually visit in real life.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
The world of Skyrim, with its towering mountains, dense forests, and medieval cities, is a masterpiece of virtual world-building. But did you know that much of Skyrim’s landscape is inspired by the majestic landscapes of Scandinavia? From the snow-capped peaks of the Throat of the World to the rugged coastlines of the Sea of Ghosts, Skyrim’s geography closely resembles that of countries like Norway and Iceland. Fans of the game can embark on real-life adventures to explore these stunning landscapes and immerse themselves in the rich Norse mythology that inspired Skyrim’s lore.
Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey
Developer: Ubisoft Quebec
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey takes players on a journey through ancient Greece, allowing them to explore iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis of Athens, the ruins of Delphi, and the majestic islands of the Aegean Sea. But the inspiration for Odyssey’s world extends beyond just ancient Greece; many of the game’s locations are based on real-life archaeological sites and historical landmarks scattered throughout the Mediterranean region. By visiting these sites in person, players can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and culture that inspired one of gaming’s most beloved franchises. 10 best destinations for video game lovers, more details here.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Developer: Nintendo
Platform: Nintendo Switch
The sprawling kingdom of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a vast and diverse land filled with rolling hills, lush forests, and towering mountains. While Hyrule itself may be a work of fiction, its design draws heavily from the natural beauty of Japan, particularly the rural countryside and ancient temples found throughout the country. By exploring the real-life landscapes that inspired Hyrule, players can experience the same sense of wonder and adventure that they felt while playing the game.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Developer: Rockstar Games
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Set in the American Wild West at the turn of the 20th century, Red Dead Redemption 2 immerses players in a world of cowboys, outlaws, and rugged frontier towns. But while the game’s setting may seem like a bygone era, many of the locations featured in Red Dead Redemption 2 are based on real-life towns and landmarks found throughout the American Midwest and Southwest. By visiting these historic sites, players can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context that inspired one of gaming’s most acclaimed titles.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt transports players to the war-torn fantasy world of the Continent, where they can embark on epic quests, battle fearsome monsters, and explore vast, open landscapes. But while the world of The Witcher may be filled with magic and myth, its design is heavily influenced by the real-life landscapes and architecture of Eastern Europe. From the medieval castles of Poland to the rugged terrain of the Carpathian Mountains, The Witcher 3’s world is a testament to the rich history and folklore of the region.
Video games have the power to inspire us, to ignite our imaginations, and to transport us to worlds beyond our wildest dreams. And while the virtual realms of these games may seem far removed from reality, they are often rooted in the very landscapes and cultures that surround us. By visiting the real-life locations that inspired our favorite game worlds, we can embark on our own epic adventures and experience the magic of gaming in a whole new way.
For more information on video game worlds and their real-life inspirations, you can visit Wikipedia’s page on video game standardization here.