Their Memory

Their Memory explores how game design and immersive technology can be used to enhance existing historical research and expand conflict narratives to bring richer and more expansive experiences to hard-to-reach audiences. Working with the Veterans’ Charity, Poppyscotland, and Game Development Companies, Ruffian Games and Pocket Sized Hands, the project utilised documentary and storytelling techniques for the commemoration of war and conflict. As both world wars have faded from living memory, how we engage with the existing historical narrative and remembrance activities of conflict is being shaped by generations that have little direct experience of war. Yet at the same time, the visual imagery of conflict is more accessible than at any previous period. From news and propaganda presented via print and screen media through to the virtual playgrounds of Battlefield and Call of Duty we are surrounded by war and conflict yet know little of its impact on those that experienced recent conflicts first-hand. Their Memory is a short thought-provoking, narrative-driven game that enables players to experience the memories of current veterans in Scotland, exploring the different conflicts and situations they have experienced. The project brought cross-sector expertise together to help memory-based organisations in engaging with wider audiences, raising awareness and diversify the current learning and educational outputs. Co-designed with both veterans and the target audience, the experience presented the authentic memories of the veterans in virtual reality to create a greater sense of immersion for future audiences. The game plays with the sense of place, objects and voice. Experiencing events through the environment of veterans employed at Poppyscotland, the player walks away from the experience with a deeper understanding and sense of empathy.

Gameplay Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQA1aaXwNnM