In the realm of video games, World War I takes a back seat to its successor, World War II. However, game developers like Ashborne Games are seizing the opportunity to explore lesser-known narratives from the Great War. Ashborne’s latest release, “Last Train Home,” delves into the historical accuracy of the Czechoslovak Legion’s evacuation across Russia, offering players a unique perspective on this pivotal moment in history.
Prioritizing Historical Accuracy
Ashborne Games, founded by Petr Kolar, emphasizes historical accuracy in “Last Train Home.” Inspired by a research trip to the Legiovlak, a replica World War I-era train, the game highlights the Legion’s commitment to cleanliness and order during their evacuation, a crucial aspect of their ability to control the Trans-Siberian Railway.
Breaking Ground in World War I Narratives
While World War II has dominated the historical gaming landscape, studios like Ashborne see the potential to explore fresher narratives from World War I. “Last Train Home” challenges players to experience the challenges faced by the Legion as they navigate the complexities of Russia’s internal conflict between Bolshevik and anti-Bolshevik forces.
Responsibility of Game Developers
According to Jos Hoebe, founder of BlackMill Games, developers hold a responsibility to accurately represent historical details, especially when certain battles or events lack depictions in popular culture. “It feels like we’re responsible for creating the image that people have of this theatre of war,” Hoebe said.
Gameplay and Story Elements
“Last Train Home” presents a real-time strategy game where players command specialized squads through rural battlefields. The game incorporates elements of managing an armored train and exhausted infantry while dealing with disease, starvation, and harsh Siberian conditions. Historical accuracy is balanced with narrative flexibility, allowing players to explore various scenarios while maintaining an immersive experience.
Navigating Uncomfortable Choices
The game introduces “traits” that influence soldiers’ behavior based on factors like religion, nationalism, pacifism, and luck. These traits, along with player choices, can lead to uncomfortable scenarios, challenging players to navigate the moral complexities of war. Decisions, such as saving the relatives of Czar Nicholas II, add a layer of fiction to the historical narrative.
Balancing Realism and Entertainment
While “Last Train Home” takes creative liberties to fit years of conflict into 40 hours of gameplay, the developers strive to strike a balance between realism and entertainment. Some changes are cosmetic, enhancing visibility, while others raise the stakes by altering historical outcomes. The inclusion of fictional elements, like an all-female squad called Valkyrie, adds depth to the storytelling.
Addressing Criticism and Controversies
Ashborne acknowledges criticism, particularly from Russian audiences, regarding omissions and portrayals. The studio faced accusations of “hiding the crimes of war,” prompting discussions about historical events omitted from the game. The team aimed to present a nuanced narrative, addressing the challenges of verifying historical details and the difficulty of distinguishing between verifiable sources and propaganda.
Unveiling Untold Stories
“Last Train Home” invites players to explore the untold stories of the Czechoslovak Legion’s journey through Russia in the aftermath of World War I. The game’s commitment to historical accuracy, combined with narrative flexibility, provides a unique gaming experience that sheds light on lesser-known aspects of this historical period.
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