Arthur Fuentes

Article (news)

Jose Rizal

Daven Tamayo

National heroes get digital makeover, reimagined as video game characters

ABS-CBN News

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1756464081064heroes.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><p>MANILA — In a bid to connect younger audiences with Philippine history, independent creative agency The Huddle Room has launched a campaign that reimagines national heroes as video game characters. </p><p>Released in time for National Heroes Day, the initiative transforms historical icons such as Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, and Gabriela Silang into stylized avatars designed to resonate with the digital-first generation.</p><p>The campaign features 12 Filipino heroes, each portrayed with game-like stat cards, dynamic visuals, and concise biographies that highlight their real-life achievements. Drawing inspiration from character-selection screens and collectible cards, the project aims to make history more accessible and engaging for youth immersed in pop culture and gaming.</p><div>[[PHOTO ALBUM]]</div><p>The Huddle Room said Philippine heroes deserve to be seen as larger-than-life figures. The agency added that by using familiar visual language, it was trying to create an entry point for deeper reflection and civic engagement.</p><p>The initiative reflects the agency’s broader mission to promote growth beyond metrics—emphasizing cultural relevance, identity, and lasting impact. By positioning historical figures within the framework of contemporary media, the campaign seeks to foster pride and awareness among younger Filipinos.</p><p>While the visuals borrow heavily from gaming aesthetics, The Huddle Room emphasized that historical integrity remains central. The goal, they said, is not to trivialize the past but to spark curiosity and encourage further exploration of the heroes’ legacies.</p><p>The campaign has sparked discussion about the role of modern media in historical education and whether reframing legacy figures through pop culture can deepen public interest. </p><p>As the Philippines continues to navigate its cultural identity in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, The Huddle Room’s initiative offers a fresh approach to honoring the past—one that blends tradition with innovation.</p>

<p>Released in time for National Heroes Day, the initiative transforms historical icons such as Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, and Gabriela Silang into stylized avatars designed to resonate with the digital-first generation.</p>

Released in time for National Heroes Day, the initiative transforms historical icons such as Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, and Gabriela Silang into stylized avatars designed to resonate with the digital-first generation.