When you think of Thailand, your mind may jump to its pristine beaches and bustling city streets. But did you know that Thai culture has made its way into the world of gaming? From Tomb Raider: Underworld to Hitman and MotoGP, video games have embraced the vibrant essence of Thailand, offering gamers a chance to immerse themselves in its rich heritage. Join us on a quest to uncover these Thai-inspired games and discover the thrilling connections that bring them to life.
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Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego? (1985)
Game developers often draw inspiration from the untamed wilderness of Southeast Asia, even in the world of casino games. Thai online casino games set in the jungle, such as Thai Temple, The Jungle Empire, and Amazing Thailand, have gained popularity among players around the world. Thailand’s captivating natural environment has also influenced video game developers. An excellent example is the classic game “Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?” The Deluxe Version, released in 1992, features 60 different global locations, including Thailand, making it a notable inclusion for gamers.
Tomb Raider: Underworld (2008)
Released in 2008, “Tomb Raider: Underworld” is partially set in Thailand. This action-adventure game is based on the scenario written by Eric Lindstrom, which takes the player on a journey across the globe on a quest for the lost island of Avalon. In Thailand, Lara is exploring the ruins of Bhogavati. In Hindu and Buddhist mythology, this is the subterranean capital of the Nagas, a civilization of semi-divine creatures. Although Bhogavati isn’t a real place, the Tomb Rider: Underworld game developers based its design on genuine Thai temples built in ancient times. In addition to imaginary places, this game also features some real locations in the country, particularly those in the coastal regions of Thailand.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2011)
Experience the bustling streets of Thailand’s capital in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2011). The “Bootleg” map immerses you in a rainy Bangkok, where snipers hide in the shadows. Take on the role of a special ops soldier in a thrilling first-person perspective. Your mission: eliminate enemies without being taken down yourself. Like other iterations of the Call of Duty franchise, this game offers multiplayer and survival modes for endless excitement.
Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare (2014)
In the 2011 edition of Call of Duty, the action takes place in modern-day Bangkok. Three years later, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare was released, featuring another section set in Thailand’s capital. However, this time, it is Bangkok of the future. Set in 2054, the game follows US Marine Jack Mitchell as he journeys to Bangkok to thwart the villains’ plot of creating a formidable biological weapon named “Manticore.” Throughout the mission, Mitchell and his comrades navigate the bustling streets of Bangkok, which, in the 2050s, has evolved into a modern cosmopolitan city that preserves its historical landmarks with pride.
Hitman (2016)
In the 10th installment of the Hitman video game series, Agent 47 embarks on a mission that spans seven global locations, including Thailand. The objective is to eliminate rockstar Jordan Cross, who is residing in the Emperor Suite on the highest level of Bangkok’s Himmapan Hotel. While the Himmapan Hotel is a fictional establishment, it bears a striking resemblance to a real luxury hotel situated in the heart of Thailand’s capital. This hotel is the Mandarin Oriental, a lavish Colonial-style building adorned with traditional Thai elements, gracefully positioned along the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
Moto GP 23 (2023)
Joining our list as the latest addition, MotoGP 23 was launched on June 8, 2023. Its inclusion is due to featuring the 2023 Thailand Motorcycle Grand Prix as one of the races in the game. The thrilling race takes place at the Chang International Circuit, a 2.83-mile racetrack known for its 12 challenging turns, making it a standout event in the world of motorsports. The Chang International Circuit has been a recurring venue in previous editions of the game, starting from the 2018 version when the Thailand GP was introduced to the MotoGP calendar.
Final Thoughts
With so much to offer us, Thai culture has made these video games very special. These games have taken us to the heart of Bangkok, immersed us in the stories and legends of ancient ruins, and put us in control of high-speed motorcycles on the Chang International Circuit. Their popularity indicates Thai culture’s huge influence on gamers all over the world, and we eagerly await the release of more video games influenced by Thai culture.