As a seasoned gamer who has been following the Civilization series since its inception, I am thrilled to see the Shawnee Tribe and their revered leader, Tecumseh, finally receiving the recognition they deserve in Civilization 7. Growing up playing these games, I’ve always felt a connection to the historical figures that shaped our world, and it’s heartening to see Indigenous leaders like Tecumseh being given due importance.
As February draws nearer, anticipation builds for the arrival of “Civilization 7“. This highly-awaited title is a significant part of the gaming world, with its empires and leaders occupying the thoughts of enthusiasts, ranging from familiar faces to newcomers within the series. Interestingly, since the inception of “Civ 2“, one Native American leader consistently features in each game.
The study of History serves as the foundation for Civilization, regardless of whether its gameplay unfolds an alternate version of history. These games strive to provide an authentic portrayal of every civilization, demonstrating a keen interest in Indigenous American histories and language accuracy. As the new release approaches, Tecumseh, a prominent figure from the Shawnee tribe, will carry on this tradition, prompting discussions about how the franchise engages with these cultural communities.
Civilization’s Native Leaders Raise a Necessary Discussion
The Shawnee’s Tecumseh Touches Down in Civilization 7
The latest leader to join the ranks of Civilization is particularly noteworthy. Born under the influence of the Revolutionary War, Tecumseh gained fame for uniting various Native tribes to resist the Americans during the War of 1812. He was a powerful symbol of unity against aggressive American expansion, which exploited tribal divisions, and his vision lived on even after his death.
According to The American Press, game developer Firaxis met with Chief Ben Barnes of the Shawnee Tribe at their headquarters in order to authentically portray the Shawnee people, particularly emphasizing the preservation of their language. As part of this partnership, Firaxis and 2K Games are contributing to language revitalization initiatives, and Shawnee actor Dean Dillon has agreed to provide the voice for Tecumseh in their upcoming project.
Although the intricate details of Civ 7 are not fully revealed, preliminary information suggests that Tecumseh is a leader with a strong emphasis on diplomacy and militarism. He offers bonuses in food and production when acting as Suzerain of City-States. Beyond his portrayal within the game, the inclusion of the Shawnee people expands a discussion about incorporating Indigenous leaders into a game centered around expansion and exploitation at its core.
Civ’s Shawnee Appearance Could Right Past Mistakes
Sid Meier and other studio leaders have admitted to past oversights in how the ‘Civilization’ series handled history, particularly concerning the portrayal of Indigenous groups and colonization. It’s clear that there is still significant work needed to ensure proper representation of Indigenous cultures within the game, despite its many achievements. The ‘Civilization’ franchise is not exempt from the ongoing necessity for a balanced and truthful depiction of Indigenous peoples.
As a gamer, I find it common for the Civ series to incorporate Native civilizations, but the collaboration with the Shawnee in Civ 6’s Poundmaker of the Cree Nation is something new. Unfortunately, Poundmaker received criticism from Headman Milton Tootoosis, who argued that the game perpetuated a misconception about First Nations leaders adopting colonial values, despite Poundmaker’s actual role in maintaining peace. Additionally, Tootoosis expressed concern that the Cree were not consulted. However, it’s worth noting that Poundmaker’s leader abilities encourage players to be friendly and reward them generously. In a similar vein, Pueblo tribal leaders declined Firaxis’ offer to include a leader in 2010. Both instances highlight the need for more thoughtful collaboration in future games.
In the game “Civilization,” players aim to dominate civilizations. However, it raises a broader question: Is this game, particularly when it portrays militant Native American leaders, reinforcing harmful imperialist stereotypes? Given its position as a leader in historical games, it’s crucial to discuss subtleties and the overall message conveyed.
Sid Meier’s Superpower is Attention to Detail
One notable aspect of the Civilization series that stands out is its meticulous attention to detail across various aspects, including intricate systems, breathtaking graphics, and linguistic accomplishments. However, it’s crucial for the developers to accurately portray historical figures, particularly those related to Indigenous Americans. Fortunately, collaboration with the Shawnee Tribe on the upcoming game promises a promising direction.
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2024-10-15 22:33