![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/1758301391_536_0_Edinburgh.jpg\")
A view of Edinburgh Castle and the city centre from Calton Hill(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\nThe study ranked 20 video game-inspired destinations using factors like hotels, costs, reviews, subreddit mentions, and Tripadvisor scenic references.A view of Edinburgh Castle and the city centre from Calton Hill(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\n
New research has revealed that a Scottish city is among the best real-world destinations for gamers, thanks to its striking appearance in one of the most popular video games<\/a> of recent years.<\/p>\n The study, carried out by Spin Casino, analysed how virtual adventures are shaping real travel plans by looking at 20 of the most iconic video game destinations to visit.<\/p>\n The rankings considered games released in the past decade alongside factors such as hotel availability, food<\/a> and transport costs, accommodation ratings, subreddit mentions, and the number of \u201cscenic\u201d references on Tripadvisor.<\/p>\n Edinburgh<\/a> placed 19th on the global list, securing its spot due to its highly detailed recreation in Forza Horizon 4. The game allows players to explore locations such as the Royal Mile and even take in sights like Bamburgh Castle.<\/a><\/p>\n Although the Scottish capital only just made the top 20, it performed strongly in other areas, placing third for the number of \u201cscenic\u201d mentions on the game\u2019s subreddit. Players frequently praise its striking like-for-like depiction, describing it as one of the most visually impressive urban landscapes in the franchise.<\/p>\n While Edinburgh\u2019s digital counterpart earned acclaim, Athens claimed the top position. Its expansive reimagining of Ancient Greece in Assassin\u2019s Creed Odyssey helped the title win Best Action\/Adventure at the 2018 Game Awards.<\/p>\n The Greek capital also recorded the highest number of subreddit mentions in the past year, as well as the most affordable accommodation options of all the destinations ranked.<\/p>\n The global list highlights how far-reaching gaming tourism<\/a> has become, spanning locations from the futuristic skyline of Dubai to the Gothic landscapes of Transylvania in Romania.<\/p>\n The findings highlight how video games are increasingly inspiring fans to seek out real-life versions of the places they explore on screen.<\/p>\n Commenting on the research, a spokesperson for Spin Casino said: \u201cThere\u2019s little surprise that so many are planning to travel to locations where they can immerse themselves in places found in their beloved gaming titles.<\/p>\n \u201cWhether you\u2019re planning a trip to New York City or jetting across the world to Athens, Greece, there are countless choices available for avid gamers wanting to travel.<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s so many games where location is a huge focus, like Lara Croft\u00ae: Temples and Tombs , where the exotic archaeological sites and breathtaking ancient landscapes become as much a part of the adventure as the gameplay itself.<\/p>\n Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.<\/p>\n You’ll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.<\/p>\n No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.<\/p>\n All you have to do is click here if you’re on mobile<\/strong><\/a>, select ‘Join Community’ and you’re in!<\/p>\n If you’re on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click ‘Join Community’.<\/p>\n We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don\u2019t like our community, you can check out any time you like.<\/p>\n To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘exit group’.<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/0_Edinburgh-in-Forza-Horizon-4.jpg\")
Edinburgh ranked 19th worldwide for its realistic recreation in Forza Horizon 4, where players can explore iconic locations like Royal Mile and Bamburgh Castle.(Image: Forza Horizon 4 Vauxhall Insignia VXR SAMU 71 Chalon sur Sa\u00f4ne\u201d by crash71100, Public Domain Dedication (CC0))<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/1758085594_118_0_WACOMMUNITYQR3.jpg\")
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