A Journey Through Vilnius: Video Games Set in Lithuania’s Capital

Vilnius, Lithuania, is a city rich in history, culture, and now, gaming. As the capital of Lithuania, it has been the setting for several unique and experimental video games. One such game is an experimental game developed by The Howler.

Howler: A Unique Adventure

One of the notable games set in Vilnius is The Howler. This game takes players on a voice-controlled journey through the city, set in an alternate steam-punk world inspired by the works of Andrius Tapinas.

In Howler, you control an air balloon, navigating the skies of Vilnius with voice commands. The objective is to traverse the city without crashing into any of the numerous landmarks. Each crash results in a game over, adding an element of challenge and skill to the gameplay.

Alternative History and Steam-Punk

The game is based on a steam-punk alternative history book by Andrius Tapinas, titled "Aikme A Gentrius Integer A". This book explores a world where steam power and technology reign supreme, providing a rich and immersive backdrop for the game.

Gameplay Mechanics

The mechanics of Howler are both simple and challenging. Players must use voice commands to maneuver the air balloon through the city's structures. This includes a range of buildings, bridges, and other traffic. The city of Vilnius, with its historic architecture, provides a perfect setting for this unique game.

Nostalgia and Future Tech

The steam-punk theme combines the nostalgic feeling of a bygone era with modern, high-tech gestures and movements. This duality adds to the immersive experience, making players feel like they are part of a timeless yet futuristic world.

Other Games in Vilnius

While The Howler is a unique experiment, it is not the only game to utilize the city of Vilnius as its backdrop. Other games have also been set in Vilnius, each bringing a different aspect of the city to life through their own unique gameplay and settings.

Other Notable Games

One such game is 'A Game of Touch and Scream' , also based on the works of Andrius Tapinas. Although it is not as voice-controlled as Howler, it offers a similar immersive experience, with players navigating through the city in a different and equally challenging way.

These games not only provide a platform for experimentation and creativity but also serve as a homage to the rich history and culture of Vilnius. They showcase how modern technology can be used to explore and preserve the past in a new, engaging format.

Conclusion

The city of Vilnius is slowly becoming a popular backdrop for video games, offering a unique blend of history and modernity. Games like The Howler and 'A Game of Touch and Scream' are not just entertainment but a way of exploring and preserving the heritage of Vilnius. As more developers discover the potential of Vilnius as a backdrop, we can expect to see even more fascinating and immersive gaming experiences set in this beautiful and historic city.

For those interested in experiencing these games or exploring Vilnius for themselves, we recommend visiting the city's historical sites such as the Gediminas Tower, Vilnius Old Town, and other landmarks that have been featured in these games. Each location offers a glimpse into the unique and rich history of Vilnius.