The best games set in the Middle East

Long confined to stereotypical settings or secondary roles, the Middle East has gradually established itself as a rich and fascinating backdrop for video games. Between sun-drenched ancient cities, tense modern metropolises, and territories marked by history, this region offers unique atmospheres that are conducive to both adventure and reflection. Studios have been able to exploit the narrative and aesthetic power of the Middle East to create memorable experiences. In this article, we offer a selection of the best video games set in this region, highlighting those that manage to combine gameplay, immersion, and respect for the cultural context.

When discussing the Middle East, it’s hard not to mention the Assassin’s Creed franchise, which has given us three superb games set in these lands. First up is Assassin’s Creed Origins, which takes place in Egypt at the end of the Ptolemaic era. The game offers an extremely detailed representation of the ancient world, from the Nile to cosmopolitan temples and cities. Its appeal lies in the cultural, linguistic, and architectural richness rarely achieved for this region. This installment also represents a huge breath of fresh air for the series and will be one of the most popular.

Released in 2023, Assassin’s Creed Mirage takes us to 9th-century Baghdad during the Abbasid Golden Age. It focuses on daily life, science, and trade in the medieval Islamic world. It is particularly notable for its more respectful and historically accurate approach to the Middle East. Finally, the third installment is the first Assassin’s Creed game, released in 2007. It takes place during the Third Crusade, between Jerusalem, Acre, and Damascus. The game stands out for its credible reconstruction of the major cities of the medieval Levant and its effort to provide historical context. It remains a benchmark for urban immersion in the medieval Middle East.

In a completely different vein, we can mention Spec Ops: The Line, which was released in 2012. Set in a Dubai ravaged by sandstorms, the game subverts the codes of military FPS games to offer a violent critique of war rhetoric. Its appeal lies in its mature, psychological, and moral treatment of conflict in a contemporary Middle Eastern context. Six Days in Fallujah (still in early access) is based on the real battle of Fallujah in Iraq. The game takes a quasi-documentary approach. It stands out for its tactical realism and its ambition to portray a modern conflict through direct testimonies, despite the controversy it has sparked.

The strategy genre is well represented in this selection, with titles such as Crusader Kings III and Total War: Medieval II. In the former, players can lead caliphates, sultanates, and Islamic empires during the great medieval wars. The appeal lies in placing the Middle East at the center of global political and military dynamics. In the latter, players enjoy a detailed representation of the medieval Middle East through its Arab, Persian, and Turkish dynasties. The game stands out for its historical and social depth, going far beyond a simple military setting.

Finally, it would be impossible to conclude this selection without mentioning another well-known franchise. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time is inspired by Persian tales and the imagination of the Arabian Nights, combining palaces, deserts, and mythology. The sequels, Prince of Persia: Warrior Within and Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones, delve deeper into the Persian universe, adding a darker and more tragic tone. Their appeal lies in the aesthetic and mythological continuity of Persia as a strong narrative setting.

Through these games, the Middle East emerges as much more than just an exotic backdrop: it becomes a real narrative and playful driving force. Whether based on history, mythology, or contemporary contexts, these titles demonstrate the cultural, aesthetic, and emotional richness that the region can offer to video games. See you at the next stop on our journey, which will take us to the United States!