Not all video games are pure fantasy or science fiction. Some are grounded in reality—retelling real events, personal experiences, and historical turning points through interactive design. These games prove that powerful stories don’t always have to be imagined—they can also be remembered.

Why Base a Game on Real Events?

• Emotional resonance: Real stories often carry more weight and meaning
• Educational value: Players gain insight into historical events or societal issues
• Unique perspectives: Games can explore sides of history not typically covered in textbooks

Notable Examples

• Valiant Hearts: The Great War – A beautifully illustrated puzzle adventure set in World War I. It mixes heartfelt storytelling with real letters and facts.
• This War of Mine – A gritty survival game from the civilian perspective during wartime, inspired by the Siege of Sarajevo.
• 1979 Revolution: Black Friday – A narrative-driven game exploring the Iranian Revolution through photojournalism and moral choices.
• Attentat 1942 – A Czech game combining interviews and interactive flashbacks to recount life during Nazi occupation.

What These Games Offer

Instead of escapism, they deliver:

• Historical immersion
• Nuanced storytelling
• Emotional and moral complexity

These titles are proof that games can serve as both art and archive, preserving memory and prompting empathy in ways no other medium can.