My Thoughts on Game Values
When we discussed game values the past few weeks, I had a lot of ideas hit me. I didn’t want to make my game complicated, but I wanted to make it impactful just the same. I thought of making a game from a psychologist point of view. You’re having trouble in your day to day life, feeling lost. Unconnected. You feel depressed and alone and go to a psychologist for some help. In the beginning you’re vague with your answers but you realize that you’re not going to get anywhere if you don’t open up about what’s bothering you. Morale of the game is that if you are struggling with mental health, it’s okay to ask for help. There’s plenty of people that feel the same way and are willing to help.
Another idea that struck me is telling a story about friendship and kindness through the eyes of a child. Children are innocent and pure. They make friends without ulterior motives and trust easily. With the way things are going in the world at this moment with the media spreading bias and hate in every direction, I thought this would be a great way to remind others that we are all the same and if we listened and respected each other, we’d be all the better for it. There’s no reason we can’t all get along even if our beliefs are different. Sometimes we’re going to meet people that we don’t always agree with, but that’s no reason we shouldn’t respect that person.
Finally, a game about finding the positive and being grateful for what you have. Finding the silver lining in your everyday life. Don’t worry about the things you can’t change. Do things at your own pace to the best of your ability. No need to rush or be impatient. It’s okay to be different. Everyone moves at their own pace and does what’s best for them. Do what’s best for you in the long run.
As for mechanics, these are interactive stories so there aren’t per say “mechanics” for I’m trying to convey positive messages on the topics discussed here such as mental health, concepts of friendship/kindness, and self care.
I’d be inclined to use Twine as these are more story grounded games and I think it would fit best. I don’t know much about Unity and I can’t program very well just yet. I’d like to know more about how Twine works, I’ve seen some pretty cool stuff with it.
