Operation Bagration may be largely unknown to Americans but a new video game by the same title is rectifying this gross oversight. One of the greatest and most daring moves by the Soviets on the Eastern Front during World War II, this strategic offensive during 1944 was instrumental in the eventual success of the Allied Forces. For enthusiasts and historians of the younger generation, this game offers a sense of what it must have felt like during perhaps the most pivotal war on planet Earth. Nadya Butylina is one of the extraordinary 3D artists who brought the dramatically realistic world of this era to the game. Kirill Oreshkin of “Best Computer Games” magazine praised the advantages of this games’ high detailed presentation of troops, armaments, vehicles, controls, and sonic environment as a brilliant depiction of battle. The Internet portal StopGame.ru heralded the “Beautiful models of combat units”, as well as the fact that the creators of Operation Bagration are exposing areas less discussed in Western culture within this historical context. We asked Ms. Butylina to grant us an insider’s view of her work on this remarkable new gaming offering.
Fans of military video games as well as history buffs will appreciate this game which covers Operation Bagration, the offensive operation from which the game derives its name. Russia’s massive impact on the outcome of World War II is often underrepresented in America and Great Britain, making this game one of the few which explores this in great depth. From June to August of 1944 was the Eastern Front assault that shattered the German front line. Gamers are allowed to play from the perspective of either the Russian or German army, allowing for a juxtaposition of intentions and motives which is truly captivating. The historical context is highly informative as well, with players given timeline relevant information, a combat mission, and a map with possible enemy attack routes as they conduct their mission. One of the game’s creators, Vladimir Kisly, worked in consultation with the Belarusian State Museum of the History of the Great Patriotic War and poured himself into a deep study of this pivotal moment of WWII.
The creators of Operation Bagration were adamant in their obtaining of the most skilled and talented artists to manifest the visual world of this battle to allow participants to immerse themselves deeply in the world of early-mid twentieth century warfare. Armaments, vehicles, and most of the key components found in this game are the product of 3D artist Nadya Butylina. Nadya herself toiled over historical photos and schematics to provide the most authentic presentation for Operation Bagration. Utilizing the 3dsMax program as well as Autodesk Maya, Ms. Butylina crafted astonishing 3D versions of buildings, bridges, towers, and village houses to materialize a world so realistic that it becomes intuitive to forget it is not actually material surroundings. Additionally, the tanks, cannons, military vehicles, and other weaponry possess a well-used characteristic that hints at the deeper story of two military sides struggling to stay alive and armed. There are layers to the visual components constructed by Nadya that offer an unspoken and complex story which only becomes more apparent with multiple views. Like a prop master or seasoned art director on a period piece film, Nadya Butylina’s contributions to this game make it a far more layered experience.
Operation Bagration is a game which doesn’t require historical knowledge to enjoy but playing it will likely prompt seeking a deeper understanding of the international context and contributions of major players in the second World War. The best video games are storytelling scenarios in which you are allowed to input your own idea and motives; Operation Bagration truly meets this criteria on the highest level.
Writer : Basil Thomson
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