How Games Teach Multicultural Perspectives

Bridging Worlds Through Play

In an increasingly interconnected world, understanding diverse cultures is more important than ever. Video games, often dismissed as mere entertainment, have emerged as powerful tools for fostering multicultural perspectives. Unlike textbooks or documentaries, games immerse players in interactive experiences, allowing them to step into the shoes of characters from different backgrounds, navigate unfamiliar traditions, and engage with stories shaped by varied cultural contexts.

From the bustling streets of Assassin’s Creed’s historical settings to the folklore-rich landscapes of The Legend of Zelda, games offer more than escapism—they provide windows into the values, struggles, and beauty of cultures beyond our own.

The Power of Narrative and Representation

One of the most compelling ways games teach multiculturalism is through storytelling. Titles like Never Alone, developed in collaboration with Alaska Native communities, weave indigenous knowledge and myths into gameplay, offering players insights into Iñupiat traditions. Similarly, Gris, a visually stunning platformer, draws inspiration from Spanish and Catalan art, embedding cultural aesthetics into its emotional journey.

When games feature diverse protagonists—such as Ghost of Tsushima’s samurai Jin Sakai or Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales’ Afro-Latino hero—they challenge stereotypes and broaden players’ empathy. By experiencing these stories firsthand, players develop a deeper appreciation for the richness of global cultures.

Mechanics as Cultural Language

Beyond narrative, game mechanics themselves can reflect cultural philosophies. For example, Journey emphasizes cooperation without words, mirroring the universal human desire for connection. Meanwhile, Okami incorporates Japanese brush painting (sumi-e) into its gameplay, teaching players about traditional art forms through interaction.

Even competitive games like League of Legends or Overwatch introduce players to characters with distinct cultural backgrounds, encouraging curiosity about their origins. The way a character fights, speaks, or interacts with others often carries cultural significance, subtly educating players about diversity.

Building Empathy Through Choice

Role-playing games (RPGs) like The Witcher 3 or Dragon Age present players with moral dilemmas shaped by cultural tensions—whether it’s negotiating peace between warring factions or respecting local customs. These choices force players to consider perspectives different from their own, fostering critical thinking and empathy.

Educational games, such as Bury Me, My Love, which follows a Syrian refugee’s journey, or Papo & Yo, inspired by Brazilian favelas, tackle real-world issues with sensitivity. By simulating these experiences, games create emotional connections that statistics alone cannot achieve.

The Future of Cultural Learning in Gaming

As technology advances, so does the potential for games to deepen multicultural understanding. Virtual reality (VR) can transport players to recreated historical sites or modern-day communities, while augmented reality (AR) blends cultural elements into real-world exploration.

Developers are increasingly collaborating with cultural consultants to ensure authenticity, moving beyond superficial representation. Games like Tchia, inspired by New Caledonian culture, showcase how respectful collaboration can result in enriching, educational experiences.

Conclusion

Games are not just entertainment—they are dynamic classrooms without borders. By engaging with diverse narratives, mechanics, and choices, players gain insights into cultures they might never encounter otherwise. In a world where division often dominates discourse, games offer a unifying language of empathy, curiosity, and shared humanity.

As players, developers, and educators, we must recognize and harness this potential, ensuring that the digital worlds we create and explore reflect the beautiful diversity of our real one.