Over the holiday season, we’re republishing select articles from Nintendo Life writers and contributors as part of our Best of 2023 series. Enjoy!
Discovering Wales in video games has been a uniquely Welsh experience. It’s an opportunity to showcase our culture to the world, and share the rich history and unique heritage of our country. For those of us from Wales, it’s a chance to see ourselves reflected in the virtual worlds we love.
Wales has been a silent enigma to the world, often prompting a deep dive into geographical and historical explanations. It’s a country with a rich history and a cool flag that deserves to be recognized and celebrated.
As a Welsh person, seeing representation in video games has been rare, but powerful. Despite the sparse history of Wales in Nintendo games, its impact has been significant. From unexpected appearances in rugby games to in-game references, Welsh culture has made its mark on the gaming world.
Sentinels of the Senghenydd Sky
One of the earliest instances of Welsh influence in gaming can be traced back to 1984, when Takashi Tezuka incorporated elements of his childhood in the creation of a new game. Fast forward to 2010, when Welsh references in games started to feel more personal. Seeing familiar elements like South Wales accents and Welsh puns in games like Dragon Quest IX on DS was an unexpected delight.
From quirky town names to playful wordplay, discovering Welsh references in video games has been a heartwarming experience. It’s a testament to the impact of Welsh culture on the gaming industry, and a reminder that our heritage can be celebrated in the virtual worlds we love.
Kiki’s Denbigh Service
For a deeper dive into the history of Welshness in Nintendo games, » …
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