A Nation's Pride: Jose Rizal's Triumphant Arrival in Civilization VII

A Long-Awaited Hero

For years, Filipino gamers yearned for meaningful representation in the world of video games. Stereotypical depictions felt like a hollow echo, failing to capture the rich tapestry of Filipino culture. Then, on January 24th, a tweet from the official Sid Meier's Civilization VII account ignited a spark of hope. A voice resonated, speaking in clear Tagalog: "Walang bansang pinagmumulan ng katalinuhan. Ito ay nagbubunga sa lahat ng lugar. Ito'y parang liwanag at hangin. Ito'y katangian ng lahat." ("Genius is not exclusive to any country. It can blossom anywhere. It is like light and air. It is in all of us.")

These words, spoken by none other than Dr. Jose Rizal, the revered Filipino hero, scholar, and author, marked a turning point. The Philippines, with its vibrant history and 117 million citizens, had finally found its place in the Civilization franchise.

More Than Just a Name

Previous Filipino characters in video games often fell into stereotypical tropes. Rizal's inclusion in Civilization VII, however, transcends these limitations. It's not a caricature, but a genuine celebration of Filipino culture through one of its most influential figures. This isn't about adobo or Jollibee; it's about the legacy of a man who shaped a nation.

The Life and Legacy of Rizal

Born in 1861, Jose "Pepe" Rizal's life was a testament to intellectual pursuit and unwavering patriotism. A polymath and polyglot, he excelled in numerous fields, from ophthalmology to writing, painting to woodcarving. His travels across Europe broadened his perspective, exposing him to the stark contrast between his privileged upbringing and the suffering of his fellow Filipinos under Spanish rule.

Rizal's literary masterpieces, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, fearlessly exposed the abuses of colonial rule and the Catholic Church. His advocacy for peaceful reform ultimately led to his execution in 1896. Yet, even in death, Rizal's spirit ignited the flames of revolution, forever etching his name in the annals of Philippine history.

Rizal's Gameplay in Civilization VII

In Civilization VII, Rizal can lead any nation, offering a generalist playstyle reflective of his multifaceted talents. He excels in diplomacy, mirroring his pursuit of peaceful reform, while his focus on narrative events allows players to delve deeper into his life and philosophy. His unique "Pambansang Bayani" trait unlocks bonus culture and gold from these events, further highlighting his impact on his nation.

"Rizal's script draws heavily from his own words, and many narrative events hold references to his life," says Rue Taylor, Narrative Designer for Civilization VII. "We also thought deeply about his character. For instance, his travels greatly influenced his ideas and perspectives, and these also fit Civilization VII very well with its inherently international focus."

Authenticity in Every Detail

The authenticity of Rizal's portrayal extends beyond gameplay mechanics. Voiced by Filipino voice actor Bryan Allan Encarnacion, Rizal speaks in Tagalog, a detail that resonates deeply with Filipino players.

"Seeing one of our national heroes speak in Tagalog in a video game is really a huge step for us Pinoys," shares Encarnacion. "I do hope they can include Andres Bonifacio and Lapu-Lapu next."

A Celebration of Representation

Rizal's inclusion in Civilization VII represents more than just a single character; it's a testament to the power of representation and cultural inclusivity in video games. The collaboration with the Shawnee Tribe for the inclusion of Tecumseh further emphasizes this commitment to authenticity and honoring the legacies of diverse cultures.

As Taylor affirms, "This is what the team strives for, with the Shawnee, with Jose Rizal, and beyond."