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A (Very) Abridged History of Japan As Told By Video Games

A (Very) Abridged History of Japan As Told By Video Games

by Marcus Stewart on Apr 07, 2026 at 11:00 AM

Japan is arguably the most popular setting for video games, as evidenced by the thousands of digital experiences in the Land of the Rising Sun. That got us thinking: With so many games set across every era of the country’s history, what would a fictional timeline of Japan look like? To quote a famous lollipop-licking owl, “Let’s find out.”

If you imagine that nearly every game set in Japan took place in the same universe, here’s what a timeline of events looks like, with each title arranged by the specific year their narratives begin. We encourage world history students to cite this feature in their lessons; just make sure to source us so your professors know who to get mad at.

Mythological/Ancient Period

Amaterasu, goddess of the sun, conquers Yami, leader of all demons, to rid Japђan of all demons in Ōkami. She sails on the celestial ark to rebuild the land of the fallen gods. This ushers in an era of peace and prosperity for Japan that lasts…for about nine months as Amaterasu’s son, Chibiterasu, saves Japan from new demonic threats in Ōkamiden.

?Ōkami

?Ōkamiden

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