The Egyptian Afterlife: In Games
1. Ancient Egyptian Beliefs and the Afterlife
Ancient Egyptians held a complex and fascinating belief system about life after death. They envisioned a journey to the afterlife that involved several important steps, each guided by a specific set of beliefs and rituals. This journey was more than just a concept; it was a central part of their everyday lives.
The Egyptians believed that the soul, known as the “Ka,” would separate from the body after death. The “Ka” then faced a challenging journey in the underworld, known as “Duat,” a realm ruled by the powerful god Osiris. This journey was a test of the deceased’s worthiness for eternal life.
To ensure safe passage through the Duat, Egyptians prepared elaborate tombs filled with treasures and offerings for the deceased. They performed rituals like mummification, designed to preserve the body and allow the “Ka” to return to it. The deceased’s heart was weighed against a feather of truth, a pivotal moment depicting the moral accounting of their life.
The “Weighing of the Heart” ceremony was a crucial part of the afterlife journey. The god Anubis, known for his jackal head, oversaw this ritual. The deceased’s heart was placed on one side of a scale, while the feather of truth, representing Ma’at, the goddess of cosmic order, was placed on the other. A heart lighter than the feather meant the soul was pure and worthy of entering the afterlife, while a heavier heart indicated guilt and condemnation to the underworld.
The underworld was a vast and complex realm, often depicted in ancient Egyptian art and literature. It was a place of challenging trials and dangers, with mythical creatures and terrifying monsters guarding its secrets. The deceased had to navigate this dangerous underworld, guided by their “Ka,” to reach the Fields of Reeds, a paradise reserved for those who passed the judgment.
Egyptian mythology was not just a set of beliefs; it was a cornerstone of their culture, influencing their art, architecture, rituals, and even their daily lives. In essence, the ancient Egyptians lived with the constant awareness of the afterlife, making their preparation for it a significant part of their existence.
2. Video Games: Modern Interpretations of Egyptian Mythology
The ancient mythology of Egypt has captivated the world for centuries, with its powerful imagery, fascinating deities, and intriguing rituals. In recent times, this fascination has found a new home in the realm of video games. Game developers have embraced the rich tapestry of Egyptian mythology, incorporating its stories, characters, and themes to create immersive and engaging experiences.
The popularity of Egyptian themes in video games stems from their inherent appeal. The blend of magic, mystery, and epic battles provides fertile ground for compelling narratives and thrilling gameplay. Moreover, the vibrant and distinctive visual style of Egyptian art offers a unique and captivating aesthetic for game designers.
Video games have provided modern interpretations of Egyptian mythology, offering audiences a different lens through which to experience these ancient narratives. By incorporating Egyptian themes, game developers can introduce players to a world of gods and goddesses, monsters and magic, and grand adventures filled with challenging puzzles and epic battles.
3. Games Emphasizing the Judgment and Weighing of the Heart
The “Weighing of the Heart” ceremony, a pivotal moment in the Egyptian afterlife journey, has found its way into several video games, offering players a glimpse into the moral accounting of the deceased. These games often incorporate this ritual as a central element of their narrative, showcasing the deceased’s journey through the underworld and the consequences of their actions in life.
One notable example is the “The Mummy” video game, based on the popular film franchise. While the game features thrilling action and exploration, the central theme revolves around the protagonist’s journey through the underworld, confronting dangers and monsters, and ultimately facing the “Weighing of the Heart” to determine their fate. The game captures the essence of Egyptian mythology, emphasizing the importance of moral choices and the judgment that follows.
Another example is the “Gods & Kings” expansion for Civilization VI, which introduces a new Egyptian civilization and features a unique gameplay mechanic influenced by the “Weighing of the Heart.” The expansion allows players to unlock special abilities and bonuses based on their “virtue,” which is earned through strategic gameplay and ethical choices. This approach connects the concept of moral reckoning to gameplay mechanics, reinforcing the significance of ethical leadership in the context of Egyptian mythology.
4. Games Featuring the Egyptian Underworld
The Egyptian underworld, known as “Duat,” is a realm of mystery, danger, and intrigue, often depicted in ancient Egyptian art and literature as a vast and intricate landscape filled with mythical creatures and challenging trials. Game developers have embraced this fascinating concept, exploring the underworld’s geography, inhabitants, and lore in captivating ways.
The “Tomb Raider” series is a prime example of games exploring the Egyptian underworld. The protagonist, Lara Croft, often finds herself venturing into the depths of ancient tombs, unearthing hidden secrets and battling dangerous guardians. These tombs often serve as gateways to the “Duat,” where Lara must navigate treacherous environments, solve ancient puzzles, and encounter mythical creatures. The series immerses players in the mythology, depicting the underworld as a realm of adventure and danger.
The “God of War” series, known for its epic battles and mythological themes, has also tapped into the Egyptian underworld. In “God of War III,” the protagonist Kratos confronts the gods of Egypt, including Ares, god of war, and ultimately descends into the Egyptian underworld to confront the imprisoned god Hades. The game utilizes the underworld’s atmosphere and lore to create a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience for players, showcasing the power and danger of the Egyptian afterlife.
5. Games Focusing on Egyptian Gods and Goddesses
The Egyptian pantheon, filled with gods and goddesses with unique powers and personalities, has provided ample inspiration for video game developers to create engaging characters and compelling stories. These games often feature deities as playable characters, antagonists, or influential figures, allowing players to experience the mythology firsthand.
The game “Smite,” a popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, features a diverse cast of gods and goddesses from various pantheons, including those from ancient Egypt. Players can choose to play as deities like Anubis, the god of death and embalming, or Bastet, the goddess of cats, protection, and motherhood. The game allows players to experience the powers and abilities of these deities in a competitive environment, showcasing their strength and unique attributes.
The game “Age of Mythology,” a real-time strategy game, also features several Egyptian deities as playable characters. Players can choose to lead armies as Ra, the sun god, or Thoth, the god of wisdom and knowledge, harnessing their unique powers and abilities to conquer their opponents. The game delves into the mythology, offering players a historical perspective on the gods and goddesses of ancient Egypt.
The game “Assassin’s Creed: Origins,” set in ancient Egypt, features a protagonist who is a Medjay, a protector of the pharaoh. The game features a rich cast of characters, including iconic Egyptian deities like Anubis, Isis, and Sobek. While the game does not feature these gods as playable characters, it incorporates them into the narrative, showcasing their power and influence in the ancient world.
6. The Role of Magic and Rituals in Egyptian-Inspired Games
Magic and rituals were an integral part of ancient Egyptian life, playing a significant role in their belief system and everyday practices. Game developers have incorporated these elements into Egyptian-inspired games to enhance immersion and create engaging gameplay mechanics.
The “Mummy” film and game series feature numerous examples of magic and rituals influencing gameplay. The antagonist Imhotep, a high priest who is resurrected through an ancient ritual, employs powerful curses and ancient artifacts to achieve his goals. The protagonist, Rick O’Connell, must utilize his knowledge of ancient Egyptian magic and artifacts to counter Imhotep’s threats and protect the world from his destructive power.
The game “Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception” features a level set in an ancient city in the Arabian Peninsula, which is inspired by the lost city of Ubar. The game incorporates elements of Egyptian mythology, including the use of ancient curses and powerful artifacts. The protagonist, Nathan Drake, must navigate these traps and puzzles, relying on his wit and resourcefulness to overcome these challenges.
7. Games Exploring the Curse of the Pharaohs
The “Curse of the Pharaohs” is a popular theme in fiction and mythology, often associated with ancient Egyptian artifacts and tombs. The curse, said to bring misfortune or death to those who disturb the pharaoh’s resting place, has captivated imaginations for centuries. Game developers have utilized this theme to create suspenseful and thrilling experiences for players.
The “Tomb Raider” series has often incorporated the “Curse of the Pharaohs” into
