Italian Prince Launches 'RoyaLand' Video Game to Educate Youth on Monarchy History

In a bold move to merge history with modern entertainment, Italian Prince Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy has announced the development of a video game entitled 'RoyaLand', designed to give players an immersive experience into the world of monarchy. The 52-year-old prince, grandson of Italy's last reigning monarch, is collaborating with seven other royal families to create this unique blend of education and entertainment, aiming to engage a younger audience with the rich, albeit tumultuous, narrative of European royalty. Growing up in an Italy that turned away from monarchy following a 1946 referendum, Filiberto has faced his share of challenges. His life has been marked by a struggle for public acceptance, yet he has managed to transform these obstacles into opportunities for connection with the people. His appearance on the popular television show "Dancing with the Stars" not only revived his public image but also opened avenues for creative endeavors, including producing short films. With 'RoyaLand', he hopes to foster a newfound appreciation for a pivotal chapter of history that many young people may overlook. The game promises to be a comprehensive simulation of royal life, where players can own land, amass power and wealth, and navigate the intricate hierarchy of nobility in their quest to become the ultimate ruler of 'RoyaLand'. Filiberto emphasizes that this venture serves a dual purpose; it offers entertainment while also educating players about the intricacies of monarchy. He believes that by incorporating elements from various royal lineages—including those from Albania, Bulgaria, France, and Russia—the game can showcase the diverse heritage of European nobility. Critics of the project have raised questions about its relevance and potential political implications. However, Filiberto is keen to clarify that 'RoyaLand' is not a stepping stone for a royal restoration in Italy. "It's not a game that's going to bring me back," he asserts. "It's about trying to pass on a history, a culture, and values to a new generation." His intention is clear: to bridge the gap between historical awareness and contemporary interests, presenting the often glamorized world of royals in a way that resonates with young gamers. Princess Victoria, part of the Romanov family and one of the game's collaborators, supports this vision. She acknowledges the prevalence of video games among younger audiences, stating, "The younger generation spends a lot of their time on social media, and video games can be quite shallow, but this will be educating and fun." Her endorsement highlights the potential for 'RoyaLand' to combine leisure with learning, making history accessible to those who might otherwise dismiss it. With development led by the Milan-based studio Neosperience, and the game set for release at the end of 2025, anticipation is already building. Described as 'state-of-the-art', 'RoyaLand' is poised to capture not only the imagination of players but also to spark a dialogue about the relevance of monarchy in the modern world. While the royal family may no longer hold political power in Italy, Filiberto's innovative approach could very well reignite interest in the storied past of the Italian monarchy and its place in contemporary culture.