Dig Into the Mythology of Tarahumara Culture in “Behind Mulaka” Chapter 2
wo weeks ago, developer Lienzo launched the first of a three-part documentary video series, exploring the rich indigenous culture that inspired the development of their upcoming action-adventure title, Mulaka. Today, they are excited to launch the second chapter of “Behind Mulaka,” this time shining a spotlight on the myths and legends of the Tarahumara.
Watch “Behind Mulaka” Chapter 2: The Mythological Creatures:
From the behemoth vegetation god Ganó, to the mantis-like race of the Seeló, Lienzo has adapted a wide range of creatures and deities for Mulaka, drawn directly from stories the Tarahumara have passed down for generations. These tales continue to be a foundational part of growing up among the Tarahumara, colouring their views of the world around them and their place in it. These oral traditions have long existed only in the minds of the Tarahumara people, however.
With approval from Tarahumara elders and working closely with anthropologists, the team at Lienzo has brought these myths to life for the first time in an interactive medium. Both in terms of their striking visual designs and impact on Mulaka’s fast-paced gameplay, each creature feels truly distinct and fits seamlessly within the game’s world.
“Mechanically and story-wise, the game draws heavily from the mythological aspects of the Tarahumara culture, the vast and rich lore that expands on both the mundane and the grand, from the smallest insect to the cosmic hierarchy of the sun, moon, dusk and dawn,” notes Lienzo’s Guillermo Vizcaino. Adolfo Aguirre continues, stating that “for us, it was very important that this was a project about the Tarahumara people with as much involvement as we could possibly get from them. Mulaka is a celebration of all their glory and we couldn’t have done it without them.”
Set against the backdrop of northern Mexico’s iconic Sierra Tarahumara landscape, Mulaka presents an action-adventure journey unlike any players have experienced before. Drawing upon the rich history of the Tarahumara people, players will encounter creatures of legend as they seek to fight back the foulness corrupting the land. Harness the culture’s fabled running prowess, learn to embody the transformational powers of the demigods, and view the world from an indigenous perspective unique to video games.
Mulaka will launch on Nintendo Switch, PC, PS4 and Xbox One in early 2018.
