ENGAGING WITH THE PAST: DIGITAL GAMES AND ITALY’S HERITAGE PRESERVATION, 2025, Plural, Lucia NOVÁKOVÁ, Bilge AKSAY, Renato DE LEONE
Is cultural heritage destined to remain confined within the pages of books? Increasingly, the answer is no. Thanks to the innovative application of digital games, augmented reality (AR), and gamified experiences, museums and cultural sites are transforming into interactive landscapes, offering dynamic ways to connect with history.
The potential of gamification in the realm of cultural heritage preservation, particularly within the Italian context, is explored in a noteworthy paper titled “Engaging with the Past: Digital Games and Italy’s Heritage Preservation.” Authored by Lucia Nováková, Bilge Aksay, and Renato De Leone, the study examines how these technologies are breathing new life into historical narratives and artifacts.
One compelling example showcased is the mobile game “Father and Son 2.” Developed through a collaboration with the prestigious National Archaeological Museum of Naples, this game transcends traditional museum visits. It invites players on an immersive journey through time, effectively turning the exploration of history into a compelling digital adventure and demonstrating a powerful synergy between cultural institutions and game development.
Such initiatives highlight how technology is fundamentally changing our interaction with cultural heritage, making it more accessible, engaging, and memorable for contemporary audiences. These digital tools offer promising pathways for preservation and education, ensuring that the stories of the past continue to resonate in the digital age. For a more detailed exploration, the full paper provides further insights into this exciting field.