Navy Veterans’ Views on Modern Representations of Warships in Games

As a dedicated student of naval history for over five decades, I have had the unique opportunity to study a wide range of warships and their operational aspects in great detail. This extensive knowledge has allowed me to observe and analyze the modern representations of these venerable ships in today’s popular games like Azur Lane and Kantai Collection. These games have gained immense popularity among the naval history enthusiast community, but they often do not accurately reflect the authentic experiences of veterans who served on these ships during World War II.

Background: My Experience and Observations

I was not a WW2 Navy veteran, nor have I served aboard an active navy ship. However, my lifelong study of different types of warships and naval history has provided me with a deep understanding of the intricacies and complexities of these vessels. For over 50 years, I have been researching naval history from primary sources, which has significantly influenced my perspectives on the subject. Through my observations and analyses, I have noticed some troubling trends in the way modern video games portray warships.

Technology and Misrepresentation

One of the most significant issues with these modern games is the technological advancements in computer programming that have led to a jumbled and inaccurate representation of many warships. While computer technology has made great strides in creating visually impressive games, it often falls short when it comes to accurately depicting historical facts. The combination of computer programmer fantasies, lack of knowledge about naval history, and insufficient understanding of naval operations, physics, and science often results in a rather embarrassing depiction of naval history in these games.

Feedback from the Veteran Community

Various discussions, comments, and questions on platforms such as Quora validate my observations about the lack of accurate representation in modern games. For instance, many veterans of the WW2 Navy express their annoyance and frustration with the liberties taken in these games. They point out numerous historical inaccuracies, ranging from the design of the ships to the depiction of naval combat and tactics. What is perhaps most amusing to them is the fact that these games have an extensive fanbase among other veterans who are excited to participate in anime events and collect virtual ships, often basking in the humor of these inabilities of the game developers to accurately represent their experiences.

Conclusion: Balancing Fantasy and Historical Accuracy

While it is important for developers to use their creative freedom to inspire and entertain the gaming community, it is also crucial to maintain a balance between fantasy and historical accuracy. These games should serve as tools for education and representation rather than mere fantasy playgrounds. It is hoped that future developers will take into account the significant role that WW2 Navy veterans played in the development of naval operations and history, ensuring that their experiences are respectfully and accurately portrayed.

Key Takeaways

Modern games like Azur Lane and Kantai Collection often sacrifice historical accuracy for an engaging gaming experience. Veterans of WW2 Navy recognize and express their frustration with the inaccuracy, while others find humor in it. Developers should strive for a balance between fantasy and historical facts to honor the rich history of naval operations.

Further Reading

For those interested in learning more about the history and experiences of WW2 Navy veterans, consider reading historical accounts, memoirs, and research papers. Websites dedicated to naval history and forums for military enthusiasts can provide valuable insights and perspectives.