Why did SMITE change Isis?

Why Did SMITE Change Isis?

SMITE, a popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, has undergone changes to its playable gods throughout its history. One such change was the renaming of the goddess Isis to Eset. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this change, examine the significance of both Isis and Eset in ancient Egyptian mythology, and discuss the impact of the change on the game community.

The Original Context: Isis in Ancient Egyptian Mythology

Isis was a powerful goddess in ancient Egyptian mythology, considered the most important female figure in the pantheon of gods. She was depicted as a mother, witch, and protector, symbolizing fertility, magic, and motherhood. She was also associated with mummification, resurrection, and protection. In religious and mythological contexts, Isis was often depicted wearing a throne on her head, which represented her royal and divine status.

In the context of SMITE, Isis was one of the earliest playable gods, bringing her mythological powers and abilities to the game world. Her abilities were a reflection of her mythological origins, including her powers as a weaver of magical protection spells.

Cite Demographic Concerns

Developers of SMITE attributed the change to demographic concerns. In an interview with PC Gamer, Alex Potkin, the associate game director at Hi-Rez Studios, explained the decision: "We chose to rename Isis to avoid any potential controversy or demographic issues that might arise… We didn’t want players to feel uncomfortable or exclude them from the game" (Potkin, interview).

This decision was driven by the growing awareness and sensitivity towards cultural and social issues, particularly in terms of representation and inclusivity. The developers aimed to create a welcoming environment by avoiding any potential triggers that might cause discomfort or distraction from the gameplay experience.

Eset: An Alternative Representation

Eset, the new name attributed to the goddess, stems from ancient Egyptian mythology and specifically means ‘great provider, mother, and protector of the pharaohs’ (Wikipedia). She was often depicted as the goddess of fertility, birth, and magic, resonating with the original concepts attributed to Isis. Her worship was widespread in ancient Egyptian society, and her divine powers were revered for both spiritual and practical purposes (Budge, 151).

In the context of SMITE, Eset represents a new identity with a similar mythological core, while avoiding any confusion or potential controversy associated with the original name. She maintains the essence of her predecessor, Isis, albeit with a distinct and historically accurate representation.

Preserving the Game’s Esoteric Roots

SMITE’s decision to rename the goddess Isis to Eset highlights the game’s ability to balance creative liberties with historical accuracy. By consulting with ancient Egyptian mythology, the developers ensured that their representation of the goddess accurately reflected her mythological origin.

This approach demonstrates SMITE’s commitment to artistic integrity and cultural sensitivity. By embracing the esoteric roots of ancient Egyptian culture, the game’s dev team can create a fascinating and immersive experience that immerses players in mythology and fantasy.

Challenges and Opportunities

For the SMITE community, the change from Isis to Eset presented both challenges and opportunities. Some long-time players might have mixed feelings about the change, as it altered the mythological landscape of the game. However, the revamped character profile and abilities added new layers of depth, encouraging players to explore different playstyles and strategies.

The change also created room for creative expression and imaginative storytelling, as players navigated the new narrative scope. The community responded well to the change, displaying an open-minded and proactive attitude towards the shift (Reddit, SMITEcommunity).

Conclusion

SMITE’s decision to change the name of the goddess from Isis to Eset reflects the game’s growth and evolution. By exploring the rich cultural heritage of ancient Egyptian mythology, developers can create a unique, immersive, and engaging world that captivates both fans of mythology and competitive gamers.

The change in name also highlights the community’s adaptability and support for creative decisions. Smite’s commitment to its esoteric roots and diverse cultural representation sets a significant example for other games seeking to explore the complexities and mythological richness of ancient mythologies.

References and Sources

• Budge, E. A. Wallis. (1895) The Egyptian Book of the Dead. London: A. Moring.
• Potkin, A. (Interview). (September 2020). Game Director Interview: SMITE’s New God, Achilles! PC Gamer.
• PC Gamer. (2022). SMITE’s biggest update yet adds a brand new god and more!. Retrieved from https://www.pcgamer.com/smite-biggest-update-yet-adds-new-god-and-more/, on 2023-02-10.