The Atlantic: Kids are learning history from video games now

UC expert in the classics gives a nod to video gaming as a way to about learn history

Anything that can call attention to periods or histories that most people wouldn’t otherwise come across does a very real service, UC’s Marion Kruse says in an article in The Atlantic.

The article focuses on the rise in popularity of video gaming, specifically games such as Europa Universalis which is by Paradox Interactive, a Swedish company.

Kruse, a professor of classics and expert in the Roman Empire, was among a small group of esteemed historians the reporter asked to opine on whether history via video game would do a disservice to history, and to the player.  

The article is a good read on the history of gaming, which dates to the 19th century, and modern application on topics traditionally taught in the classroom.

Games, Kruse says, “are antithetical to apathy,” and games like Europa Universalis can get the player to start caring about the past, even if it’s in a relatively superficial way.  

Read the entire article 

Featured image at top courtesy of Unsplash/Henderiksen.  

Impact Lives Here

The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here

Related Stories

2

Western & Southern and UC expand scholarship and co-op support

May 8, 2026

As a longtime employer of University of Cincinnati graduates, Western & Southern Financial Group is now deepening its commitment to empowering the next generation of career-ready professionals. This April, UC faculty and Western & Southern leadership celebrated 10 students as part of the Western & Southern Scholars Program. The scholarship program is a fund launched in 2024 alongside the Western & Southern Accelerated Career Program. The 10 Western & Southern Scholars were selected for their exceptional involvement and impact. These students exemplify the highest standards of academic engagement, having completed meaningful co op experiences and actively contributed to UC’s extracurricular community. Together, these students demonstrate strong leadership, initiative and a commitment to excellence.