The Deus Ex game franchise is having an impact on the future of prosthetic limbs. Deus Ex examines transhumanism and what it means to be human. The games take place in a future where humans can receive cyberpunk-style augmentations.
The game Deus Ex: Human Revolution tells the story of Adam Jensen, the head of security at Sarif Industries. After an attack on Sarif, Jensen investigates the organization responsible. Jensen receives artificial organs and cyberpunk augmentations which aid him in his investigation. The title and its sequel Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, are prequels to Dues Ex, which was released in 2000.
Both titles feature cyberpunk prosthetic limbs and inevitably developer Eidos Montreal received calls from fans asking if they could purchase the in-game prosthetics.
This prompted the studio to partner with UK startup Open Bionics, a company producing inexpensive 3D printable prosthetic arms. Gaming company Razer came onboard, powering the prosthetic’s augmentations with its StarGazer webcam and Intel RealSense tech. This innovation led to Deus Ex and Open Bionics entering the Guinness Book of World Records in 2017 for the first prosthetic limb based on a video game.
The Deus Ex 3D printable prosthetic designs are free and available for adults and children. Tilly Lockey, a child who uses the Deus Ex prosthetic, says the arm adds to her confidence.
“Looks awesome, and it makes you feel confident. Instead of people thinking they feel sorry for you because you don’t have a hand, they’re like: ‘Oh my gosh, that’s a cool hand,’” said Lockey, to Parametric Architecture.
Halo Prosthetics For Kids
However, Deus Ex isn’t the only gaming franchise to enter the realm of prosthetics. Halo developer 343 Industries is partnering with University of Central Florida-based non-profit, Limbitless Solutions to create more Halo-themed prosthetics for children. Since 2018, the companies have offered Halo prosthetics. However, this year, the line of prosthetics was expanded to include Master Chief from Halo Infinite and Halo: Reach Spartan Catherine-B320 inspired prosthetics.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
