Analysing ancient cuneiform inscriptions in the video game Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time1

Abstract

The textured ancient inscriptions that can be found in the video game Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time are central to this study. There are currently no publications that analyse the ancient cuneiform inscriptions in detail. Most sources of information briefly discuss general ‘game studies’ aspects and do not comment on or criticize historical accuracy. There are limited sources that discuss video games using an Assyriological perspective. This article is, therefore, an interdisciplinary study between archaeogaming and Assyriology, which falls within the broader game studies field. The intent is also to address the ongoing downward trend currently experienced in the field of Ancient Studies by bringing more attention to the study of Assyriology, cuneiform studies and philology in gaming (Assyriogaming) using Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time as a reference. The main focus is to decipher, translate and consider how accurate and immersive the in-game cuneiform textures are in relation to the diegetic time period the game is theoretically set in. The analysis will include a storyline synopsis which will briefly discuss the architectural settings and characters. The purpose of this is to expand upon the already existing game studies literature associated with the game to show how additional background information can be used to frame and construct an implied historical context. This historical context can then be used to translate the in-game cuneiform inscriptions demonstrating why the game can be used as an effective Assyriology teaching tool.