Ancient Rome in the video game medium: The case of Marcus Junius Brutus for a reflection on myth and history.

This article examines the representation of ancient Rome in video games through the case study of Marcus Junius Brutus, focusing on how his historical figure is transformed into myth within the medium. It analyzes Brutus’s portrayal in Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (2010), Assassin’s Creed: Origins (2017), and Shadow of Rome (2005), highlighting how these games reinterpret his motives, character, and legacy by blending ancient sources, historiographical debates, and cultural narratives. The study reveals contrasting depictions—from a noble rebel aligned with ideals of liberty to a negative traitor figure—reflecting broader historical and ideological appropriations across time. It argues that while these portrayals diverge from strict historical accuracy, they serve as interactive sites for engaging with history, memory, and identity, underscoring the need for critical frameworks to navigate the interplay of myth and history in digital media.