"Culture is a configuration of learned behaviors and results of behavior whose component elements are shared and transmitted by the members of a particular society(Linton, 1945)."
Regarding the list of games utilized for this thesis, I focused primarily on playthatgame. playthatgame was picked because it took approximately 3000 best of games lists to compile one massive metalist of the finest video games of all time. (Play That Game, n.d.). This list was purposefully picked since the games stretch from the 1980s through the 2020s. I decided to narrow it even further to the point where the game had to indicate that the setting, or character, was in Mexico or that the locale was highly inspired by Mexican culture.
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I inquired with gamers from Mexico about three aspects related to location in video games: their opinions on the utilization of Mexican culture in games, which locations evoke a sense of Mexico, and which locations are perceived as least representative of Mexico.
Common Mexican Culture Used In Video Game Locations
Sand Kingdom
Serpent Shrine
Dorado
Mexican Temple
Bullringing
Nuevo Paraiso
Wedding Reception
Hospicio Cabañas
Boom Town
Sand Kingdom - Super Mario Odyssey
Background
The Sand Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey is the third location players can explore. It's portrayed as a desert-themed area with a quaint town at the beginning of the level. When you initially arrive, the kingdom is frozen, and to restore it to its original state, you must defeat the boss. Mexico inspires the town, as the game's director was greatly impressed by the country and wanted to incorporate its influence into the game (Brian, 2017).
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Upon initially entering the town, players will notice that the local inhabitants are in a state of distress due to their frozen town. However, once you restore the area to its normal state, you will witness the locals celebrating in joyous festivities.
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Inside the city, you can hear the cheerful tunes of Mariachi music playing in the background, setting a lively ambiance. The buildings in the city are designed to resemble the vibrant architecture of Mexican houses, with bright and colorful exteriors. Adorning these buildings are nopales, cactus plants commonly found in Mexico, as well as serapes, colorful shawls or wraps, hanging from them, adding to the cultural aesthetic of the town.
Mexican Culture Used
Mariachi = Mariachi music, which originated in Mexico in the 18th century, has evolved over time. A typical modern mariachi group typically includes violins, trumpets, guitar, and guitarrón. Mariachis typically play sones, but they are versatile and can perform a wide range of musical styles upon request (citation).
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El Dia de los Muertos = Día de los Muertos, a tradition with roots dating back 3,000 years to the Aztec culture, is a time of honoring the deceased. It is a designated occasion where family members and friends who have passed away are believed to be invited to join their living loved ones in a celebratory gathering. Calaveras, or skulls, are commonly displayed during El Dia de los Muertos, with sugar skulls being the most popular variety, ranging in size from small to large. In Super Mario Odyssey, the locals draw inspiration from these sugar skulls, incorporating similar size variations, just like real-life sugar skulls.
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Sombreros = Sombreros, which are Mexican-style hats made from palm leaves in various textures, shapes, and sizes, can be seen worn by the locals in Super Mario Odyssey.
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Serapes = Made from pure wool, serapes or blankets are traditionally worn as overcoats by men and boys only. However, they are also popular among tourists who use them as rugs, couch covers, or for various purposes. In the game, you can observe that the locals are adorned in serapes.
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What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
As per the bar graph provided, it is evident that Mexican gamers largely appreciate the utilization of Mexican culture in this level, with the majority of respondents expressing positive feedback. One of the respondents specifically noted that the "correct cartoonized Mexican style architecture" was well-executed, while another appreciated the vibrant colors that accurately depict the bold and vibrant houses commonly found in Mexico. Furthermore, the respondent mentioned that the music, locations, and town characters all harmoniously blend with the overall environment that was being created, indicating a successful incorporation of Mexican cultural elements in the game.
Dorado - Overwatch 2
Background
The game Overwatch 2 features a fictional representation of Mexico called Dorado, set above the coastline. Instead of depicting Mexico as a town stuck in the past, the game designers chose to bring Mexico into the future while preserving its cultural elements.
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During the process of developing Overwatch, the team faced challenges in finding appropriate references to accurately depict the Mexican town of Dorado. Eventually, they resorted to searching for "colorful Mexican towns" on Google Images, where they came across a photograph that helped solidify Dorado's aesthetic. However, it was later revealed that their visual reference was actually a town in Italy called Manarola.(Twitch, n.d.).
Mexican Culture Used
Piñatas = Piñatas, initially having religious origins, gradually lost their original significance over time. By the 16th century, they had become a recognized element of Mexican culture. Nowadays, piñatas are commonly used in celebrations, especially at children's parties, and are typically filled with candies. In Dorado, you may even come across piñatas designed in the shape of other Activision-Blizzard games.
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Papel Picado = In Dorado, as you walk towards the city center, you can witness the vibrant display of papel picado, a traditional Mexican art form that involves intricate cut paper designs on thin, colored tissue paper, used as festive banners for special occasions.
What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
As per the bar graph provided, it is evident that Mexican gamers largely appreciate the utilization of Mexican culture in this level, with the majority of respondents expressing positive feedback. One respondent described it as "nice and colorful, a blend of modern and traditional Mexican architecture," while another referred to it as "resembling an average Mexican town." However, a different participant expressed dislike, stating that it looked more like Spain than Mexico.
Bullringing - Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1+2
Background
Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1+2 is a skateboarding game that features real-life locations as its settings. One of the levels is inspired by "The Plaza Monumental de Tijuana" or Bullringing by the Sea, a famous location in Tijuana, Mexico (Tony Hawk [@tonyhawk], 2015).
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In order to enhance the Mexican ambiance, the announcer in this level is of Mexican origin, and there is a bull roaming around the stage in the original version of the game. In the remake the removed the bull entirely.
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During gameplay you are able to hear the announcer say:
​"¡Arriba! (Up!)"
"¡Ándale, ándale! (Come on, come on!)"
"¡Toro, toro, toro! (Bull, bull, bull!)"
"¡Vaya con dios, amigo! (Go with God, friend!)"
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What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
As per the bar graph provided, it is evident that Mexican gamers do not like the utilization of Mexican culture in this level, with the majority of respondents expressing negative feedback. One respondent said that "I understand that it is based on a real location. But using it as a skateboarding track is highly disrespectful.", with another respondent saying "Although it takes place in a bullring where matadors are held it feels like a normal stadium and does not really highlight anything for Mexican culture."
Wedding Reception - LittleBigPlanet
Background
In LittleBigPlanet, players embark on a puzzle platforming adventure that takes them on across the globe. The player's mission is to stop the main antagonist who is kidnapping creators. The game features levels inspired by real-life locations but presented in a whimsical caricature style. The player will explore various countries including England, Mexico, the United States, Japan, India, and Russia as they progress through the game.
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Throughout the game, players have the opportunity to gather stickers, decorations, objects, materials, costumes, audio, and backgrounds that are all uniquely tied to the culture represented in each level.
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Wedding Reception which is based on the Mexican holiday El Dia de los Muertos, this level has you traversing on the graveyard of the church and it is filled with different depictions of calaveras, Altars and Ofrendas, marigold flowers, candles, and Flor the Nube.
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Mexican Culture Used
Altars = Altars, initially built at cemeteries as a means of honoring the deceased, have now found their way into homes as family members have moved away from their loved ones. These home altars are adorned with four symbolic elements: water, fire, wind, and earth, paying homage to the traditional construction of cemetery altars.
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Water is included in the altars as it is believed that the departed loved ones have embarked on a long journey and may be in need of hydration.
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The vibrant candles that adorn the altars, chosen based on the deceased's favorite colors, symbolize the element of fire.
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Papel picado, with its fluttering paper designs, serves as a visual representation of the element of air, symbolizing its free-flowing nature as it moves and changes.
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The representation of earth on the altar takes the form of "pan de muerto," which can be in the shape of bones or miniature human figures.
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Flor de Nube, or white flowers, are commonly used to decorate altars, while marigold flowers are often placed at the entrance of homes and scattered throughout the altar to serve as a guiding path for spirits to return to their loved ones.
What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
As per the bar graph provided, it is evident that Mexican gamers like the utilization of Mexican culture in this level, with the majority of respondents expressing positive feedback. According to one of the respondents they state that " it has very clear Mexican iconography.", while another respondent state that "The colorful decorations and images of the sugar skull are strong reminders of Mexican culture."
Boom Town - LittleBigPlanet
Background
In LittleBigPlanet, the level "Boom Town" presents a caricatured depiction of Mexico, resembling the portrayal often seen in Hollywood. The level features a desert town where inhabitants are depicted wearing sarapes, sombreros, and sporting exaggerated mustaches, conforming to the conventional media portrayal of Mexico. The goal for this level is to rescue Uncle Jalapeño.
Mexican Culture Used
Vaqueros = The vaquero, a livestock herder whose tradition originated in Mexico and was influenced by techniques brought to Latin America from Spain, eventually evolved into the iconic Anglo cowboy figure romanticized in Hollywood.
What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
As per the bar graph provided, it is evident that Mexican gamers like the utilization of Mexican culture in this level, with the majority of respondents expressing positive feedback. While some expressing negative feedback. One respondent that "Because of the colors" it made them feel that Mexico was being represented. While others have stated that they rely on Hollywood depictions of Mexico to create this level.
Serpent Shrine - LittleBigPlanet
Background
In LittleBigPlanet, the level "Serpent shrine" the game has the player going through an Aztec temple that is inspired by the temple of Quetzalcoatl.
Mexican Culture Used
Quetzalcoatl = Quetzalcoatl, a deity from Mesoamerican mythology, is known as the feathered serpent and was revered in various cultures across the Mesoamerican region. In Aztec belief, Quetzalcoatl is associated with the creation of humanity and is considered a creator figure in their mythology.
What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
As per the bar graph provided, it is evident that Mexican gamers have mixed thoughts about the use of Mexican culture in this level, with the majority of respondents expressing positive feedback. While some expressing negative feedback. Some expressed the dislike of the resemblance with associated with their ancestors and not Mexico itself.
Mexican Temple - Tekken 3
Background
The Mexican Temple stage in Tekken 3 is set in a pyramid or temple structure, depicting a Mexican-themed environment. Upon entering the level, players are greeted with intricately carved and painted walls in the background.
What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
According to the given bar graph, it is clear that Mexican gamers generally have mixed feelings about the use of Mexican culture in this level, with some expressing negative emotions and others positive. For instance, one respondent stated, "While Mayan/Aztec temples are indeed a part of Mexican culture, I feel that they are a bit outdated to represent me," and also mentioned that "the lack of details and dark ambiance" in the level could be improved for a better portrayal that they would appreciate more.
Nuevo Paraiso - Red Dead Redemption
Background
As players progress through the main storyline of Red Dead Redemption, the main character embarks on a journey to Nuevo Paraiso, the second region they can explore, in pursuit of two key antagonists.
As you journey to Mexico via boat, you are met with gunfire from Mexicans who are trying to kill the person helping you cross. This initial encounter paints a negative picture of Mexico, giving the impression that it is populated by hostile individuals. As the player delves deeper into Mexico in Red Dead Redemption, they begin to realize that the country is in the final stages of the Mexican revolution. Unlike in other games, the Mexican non-playable characters (NPCs) are not one-dimensional expendable characters. They are intricately crafted with cultural programming that makes them less naturally hostile. When interacting with these NPCs, they do not provoke the protagonist unless provoked first, and they will fiercely defend their comrades if necessary.
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Mexican Culture Used
Corridos = The act of documenting and providing commentary on events, occurrences, and personalities of local, national, or international significance has been carried out using this widespread musical practice rooted in Mexico's oral tradition. This practice involves crafting a descriptive narrative in verse, akin to poetry, which is then accompanied by music. During the game, Abraham Reyes tells the player that his accomplishments will be heard in corridos.
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The Mexican Revolution = The period from approximately 1910 to 1920, which caused widespread social, political, and economic upheaval throughout the country, led to a massive outflow of Mexicans desperately seeking to escape the violence and deprivation that often affected civilians.
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Sombreros = Are Mexican-style hats made from palm leaves in various textures, shapes, and sizes.
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Charros = The charro, a Mexican horseman akin to the American cowboy, is recognized by his distinct attire, expertise, and tools. This iconic figure symbolizes Mexican machismo and masculinity, encompassing qualities such as honor, virtue, and valor. By the conclusion of the Mexican revolution, the charro had evolved into a national emblem of masculinity and gained popularity in literature, cinema, and music.
What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
Based on the provided bar graph, it is evident that Mexican gamers generally view the use of Mexican culture in this level positively, as a majority expressed that it was an excellent representation. One positive respondent remarked, "Red Dead Redemption portrays Mexico in an intriguing and vivid manner, distinct from previous game portrayals." Another respondent mentioned, "While acknowledging that the game is set in the past and not entirely reflective of modern-day Mexico, it still provides a realistic depiction of Mexico's history, which holds relevance even today."
Hospicios Cabañas - Super Street Fighter 2
Background
T-Hawk's stage in Super Street Fighter 2: The New Challengers is set in Guadalajara, Mexico, and features the real-life location of Hospicios Cabañas as its backdrop.
Mexican Culture Used
Hospicios Cabañas = The Hospicios is a World Heritage Site and was founded in 1791 by the Bishop of Guadalajara to combine the functions of a workhouse, hospital, almshouse, and orphanage. The structure was designed by Manuel Tolsá and the interior is decorated by a series of monumental frescoes by José Clemente Orozco.
What do you think about the use of Mexican culture in this location?
The purpose of this bar graph is to illustrate the opinions of Mexican gamers regarding the utilization of Mexican culture in this particular setting. From 1 being the worst to 5 being the best.
Peoples opinions on the location
From the bar graph provided, it is clear that Mexican gamers hold mixed opinions about the use of Mexican culture at this level. Some respondents viewed it positively, stating that it accurately represents Guadalajara, while others expressed dislike for the depiction of certain people's attire.
Bibliography
Brian. (2017, November 25). Super Mario Odyssey producer on approach to development, theme song, Pauline, higher age rating, more. Nintendo Everything. https://nintendoeverything.com/super-mario-odyssey-producer-on-approach-to-development-theme-song-pauline-higher-age-rating-more/
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Twitch. (n.d.). Twitch. Retrieved April 13, 2023, from https://www.twitch.tv/videos/123951197
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Tony Hawk [@tonyhawk]. (2015, November 10). We rented a bullring in Tijuana for 2 wks in ’98 for $1500. It took 10 days to build a ramp & 4 days to skate & film https://t.co/QXHWcBtBKs [Tweet]. Twitter. https://twitter.com/tonyhawk/status/663879858150248448