Atomfall: How a forgotten nuclear disaster inspired a video game

Atomfall: How a forgotten nuclear disaster inspired a video game

Reporting by Peter Gillibrand and Tom Richardson for BBC Newsbeat generated an engaging piece delving into the historical background of nuclear disasters such as Fukushima, Three Mile Island, and Chernobyl. However, it significantly highlighted the lesser-known Windscale fire, a nuclear accident that took place in the Lake District, England, and released radioactive material into the atmosphere. This event, one of the world’s first and the UK’s worst nuclear disaster, was effectively shrouded in secrecy for many years, leading to its relative obscurity compared to more recent incidents.

The article brought attention to the impact of the Windscale fire through the launch of Atomfall, a video game developed by Rebellion based in Oxford. The CEO, Jason Kingsley, derived inspiration for the game from the real-life events of the disaster in Cumbria. Atomfall presents an alternative sci-fi timeline where the affected area has become a quarantine zone, showcasing a fictionalized version of the tragic incident. Through this game, the developers aimed to shed light on historical events that have been overshadowed by more prominent disasters.

Despite the gravity of the Windscale fire, the article emphasized the lack of awareness surrounding it, especially among the younger generation in Cumbria. Atomfall’s portrayal of the area in a video game has not only reignited interest in the local history but has also captured the attention of aspiring game developers like Hannah Roberts and Harry Hawson. As individuals hoping to make their mark in the gaming industry, they appreciated the meticulous attention to detail in Atomfall’s representation of Cumbria and its unique cultural elements, showcasing the potential of small regions like Cumbria to serve as compelling settings in the gaming world.

Overall, the article highlighted the significance of featuring local areas in media such as video games, exposing a global audience to lesser-known historical events and cultural nuances. The integration of the Windscale disaster into a video game like Atomfall served as a platform to educate and engage players in the narrative of a region primarily known for its scenic beauty, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among locals like Oliver Hodgson, who recognized the potential for utilizing such platforms to impart knowledge and preserve historical legacies for future generations

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More