‘I Can Really Nitpick Things’ – Firearms Expert Jonathan Ferguson Explains the Most Common Gun Mistakes in Games

Jonathan Ferguson, a firearms expert and Keeper of Firearms and Artillery at the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds, has become a prominent figure at the intersection of firearms history and video games. Known for his detailed breakdowns of video game weapons on YouTube, Ferguson now also contributes to game development through the Royal Armouries' consultation service.

He has worked with studios such as Team17, Facepunch, and Rebellion to ensure the accuracy of weapons in their games and to correct commonly-made mistakes, such as the misrepresentation of shotguns.

One persistent mistake Ferguson has noticed is the unrealistic depiction of shotguns, often making them less than lethal or non-lethal even at a certain distance. However, he notes that developers have largely corrected this issue, as seen in games like Insurgency: Sandstorm and Red Dead Redemption 2, which depict shotguns more realistically.

Ferguson's expertise is invaluable to developers, as his understanding of both gameplay needs and historical accuracy allows him to provide precise guidance. In the case of Hell Let Loose: Vietnam, for instance, his consultation helped ensure that the game's weapons were depicted accurately, though the studio had already done its research on the era's arsenal. Ferguson's role goes beyond correcting individual details; his keen eye for visual fidelity has helped developers improve the overall realism of their games.

While the increased visual fidelity in modern games enhances realism, it also presents a challenge for critics like Ferguson. As visual fidelity improves, nitpicking becomes increasingly difficult, and it can sometimes lead to extra work for developers. However, Ferguson acknowledges that there is a balance to be struck. For instance, pistol slides may be rendered slower in games than they are in reality, which can detract from the overall experience if players can see them moving.

Ferguson's own journey to becoming an expert began with GoldenEye 64, where the representation of the AK-47 left a lasting impression on him. Despite its fictionalized portrayal, the AK-47 has become a symbol of global significance, representing both liberation and violence. Ferguson's deep appreciation for this iconic weapon underscores his commitment to ensuring that video games accurately reflect the real-world significance of firearms.