Classical Reception in Ryse: Son of Rome

This thesis examines the use of the ancient world in video games. There are many video games that have focused on the ancient world, both Greek and Roman, both historical and mythological. In particular, this thesis studies ancient Roman figures and monuments (such as the emperor Nero and the Colosseum) in the video game Ryse: Son of Rome. It addresses the historical changes that are made throughout the gameplay and the reasons as to why this video game manipulates the ancient world in a way that appeals to a greater audience and fits in with a cinematic tradition. In addition to studying the classical receptions in Ryse: Son of Rome, this thesis also examines the idea of the ancient world being used as a marketing tool for many companies, in and out of the video game industry.