In the Nizhny Novgorod region, the village of Istomino hosted the final stage of the all-Russian military-patriotic game “Zarnitsa: Legends of the Future” from September 27 to 28. The event drew attention across Russia as teams gathered to test their teamwork, knowledge, and tactical skills in a structured, age-appropriate environment. The finals were coordinated with participation confirmed for the window of September 22-28, highlighting a coordinated nationwide effort to celebrate military-patriotic education for youth. (Regnum)
Participants represented a wide geographic swath of the country, including teams from the DPR, Chechnya, Tatarstan, Kalmykia, Sverdlovsk, Tyumen, Belgorod, Pskov, Moscow region, Buryatia, Khabarovsk Region, Moscow, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, and Kuzbass. The diversity of regions underscored a shared interest in fostering resilience, leadership, and civic responsibility among young players from varied communities. (Regnum)
During the finals, the 225 competitors were split into two squads, designated red and green. They faced a series of demanding tactical tasks embedded in a scenario designed to stress strategic planning, rapid decision-making, and cooperative execution. The challenges included the use of radio communications, navigating simulated minefields, neutralizing enemy-equipped targets, and coordinating unmanned aerial vehicle operations. The framework emphasized realistic, crowd-safe simulations while maintaining a strong educational focus. (Regnum)
Each team was organized around a core set of roles to mirror a professional team structure. A commander directed overall operations, supported by an instructor, a war correspondent, a political leader, a signalman, an attack-pilot, a UAV operator, a sapper, a medic, and a topographer. This composition was designed to teach students how different expert perspectives contribute to a coherent, strategic outcome under pressure. (Regnum)
Speaking about the evolution of Zarnitsa, Daria Kozyreva, the head of the patriotic department of the First Movement, mentioned that the program continues to adapt to newer generations while preserving the fundamental values and traditions that have long defined the activity. The aim is not only to honor the past but to translate it into modern, relatable experiences that resonate with today’s youth. (Regnum)
Kozyreva explained that the core mission remains to uphold a value system rooted in the Soviet era, while simultaneously introducing high-tech tools, fresh topics, and engaging formats that make participation appealing to younger participants. The balance between tradition and innovation is intentional, ensuring the game remains attractive to children while still delivering meaningful lessons about teamwork, discipline, and service. (Regnum)
Military correspondent Irina Kuksenkova offered a perspective that Zarnitsa serves more than mere entertainment. She framed the event as a meaningful educational platform that blends practical skills with strategic thinking, fortifying students with a preparation that can complement formal schooling. The perspective argued for broader adoption at the school level, where structured, scaled activities can build confidence and resilience among students without relying solely on large, nationwide campaigns. (Regnum)
In her view, it is valuable to draw on the positive experiences of previous generations and consider organizing expansive Zarnitsa-style gatherings across Russia, spreading the benefits of collaborative problem-solving and leadership across many communities. The approach champions practical learning that can bridge classroom work with real-world scenarios, serving as a bridge between history and modern-day competencies. (Regnum)
For families and educators in Canada and the United States who value youth programs that emphasize critical thinking, teamwork, and civic-mindedness, Zarnitsa offers an illustrative case study in structured, youth-focused military-patriotic education. The event demonstrates how to stage complex simulations in a controlled, safe environment while elevating participants through clear roles, purposeful tasks, and measurable outcomes. The experience invites audiences abroad to reflect on how similar frameworks could be adapted to local contexts, focusing on ethics, safety, and leadership development. (Regnum)
As the competition concluded, organizers highlighted the importance of maintaining a learning-forward attitude. The event’s design encourages participants to apply the principles of strategic coordination, resource allocation, and rapid adaptation—skills that translate well beyond the battlefield and into academics, community service, and future careers. It also showcases how technology, when used responsibly, can enhance experiential learning and cooperative problem-solving. (Regnum)
Overall, the Istomino finals illustrated a continued commitment to blending tradition with innovation. By preserving core values while introducing contemporary tools and themes, Zarnitsa remains a relevant and engaging platform for youth development. The experience reinforces that education in resilience, leadership, and teamwork can be both practical and inspiring, preparing young participants to contribute positively to their communities in any context. (Regnum)