A Russian University Has Created the World’s First Game About a Nuclear Icebreaker
Russian developers have created the world’s first game centered on a nuclear-powered icebreaker, combining realistic simulation with arcade‑style gameplay to showcase the capabilities of the country’s atomic fleet.
A New Digital Tribute to the Nuclear Icebreaker Fleet
To mark the 65th anniversary of the nuclear icebreaker fleet, the Virtual Reality Laboratory of the National Research Nuclear University, supported by Greenatom, has developed a unique game titled Icebreaker. The development team drew inspiration from SnowRunner—the title where players navigate a truck through mud and snow to deliver cargo. The students set out to translate the essence of atomic icebreaking into a game format. The result is a nuclear icebreaker simulator enhanced with arcade elements.
Realistic Mechanics and Built‑In Learning
Players must complete several tasks, including learning to operate the vessel, manage the crew, navigate the map, and plot an optimal route to rescue a tanker stuck in ice. The game has no age restrictions—anyone can step into the captain’s role.
To ensure technical accuracy, the development team consulted Alexander Baranov, senior mate of the nuclear icebreaker Yamal. The simulator also includes educational components: during missions, players learn how to assess ice thickness and explore other nuances of working within the nuclear icebreaking fleet.
A demo version is currently available, and the team plans to expand the project further.
