The Windscale fire, which occurred in October 1957 in Cumbria, is recognized as the UK's worst nuclear accident, releasing radioactive materials into the atmosphere and burning for three days.

Despite its severity, the Windscale disaster is less well-known compared to other nuclear incidents like Fukushima and Chernobyl, although it resulted in around 240 cases of thyroid cancer and the destruction of local milk supplies.

Rebellion, the game's developer based in Oxford, aims to bring attention to the Windscale disaster's legacy through a fictionalized sci-fi narrative set in a quarantine zone around the site.

The video game 'Atomfall' is set in a quarantined version of the Lake District, showcasing a sci-fi alternative timeline that diverges from actual historical events.

The idea for 'Atomfall' was conceived by Rebellion CEO Jason Kingsley while walking in the Lake District, with the goal of highlighting local history through a gaming medium.

This game is set to break the trend of major UK video games being predominantly set in London, instead showcasing lesser-known regions like Cumbria.

Kingsley emphasized the importance of appealing to the US video game market, while also noting that independent companies like Rebellion have the freedom to explore unique British settings.

Local resident Oliver Hodgson believes 'Atomfall' can educate young people about the Windscale disaster and stimulate interest in their local heritage.

Young residents of Cumbria, including aspiring game developers like Hannah Roberts and Harry Howson, expressed excitement about 'Atomfall' and its accurate depiction of local culture.

The game's design team, which includes international members, worked to incorporate unique British cultural elements, such as dry stone walls, into their depiction of the Lake District.

Hodgson is also involved in a project to establish a £4 million gaming hub in Whitehaven, aimed at enhancing digital skills in the area, influenced by the attention garnered from 'Atomfall.'

While the Windscale fire was serious, Kingsley noted that it did not lead to fantastical consequences like mutants or cults, emphasizing the game's fictional nature.