A Game Designer's Mission: Unveiling Neurodivergent Stories
Unveiling the Power of Neurodiversity Through Gaming
Susannah Emery, a game designer with a unique vision, is on a mission to bring awareness to social issues through her interactive creations. But here's where it gets controversial: she's doing it by showcasing the neurodivergent experience, a perspective often overlooked.
In her game, Life (Re)Sounding, players step into the shoes of a neurodivergent individual, navigating everyday tasks that most of us take for granted. It's a powerful reminder that the world isn't always designed with everyone in mind.
"It's not about us being different," Emery explains, "it's about the world needing to adapt."
One level, for instance, tasks players with cleaning up trash. As they progress, the lights become brighter, eventually blinding the player. This, Emery reveals, is a personal experience she often faces due to light sensitivity.
Emery's journey into game design began at Adelaide University, where she found her passion for using games as a medium to address social issues. Her work has since focused on creating inclusive experiences, ensuring that everyone can see themselves reflected in the games they play.
A Career Inspired by a Simple Idea
Emery's career path was inspired by a simple yet powerful realization during her final year of high school. She discovered the world of multimedia studies, including interactive media and video games. However, a career advisor discouraged her, suggesting it might not be suitable for a girl.
But Emery didn't let that deter her. She attended an open day at a university, where she met a female presenter who was also the head of the multimedia department. That moment was a turning point, proving to Emery that she, too, could pursue her dreams.
The Power of Video Games in Education
Emery's experience teaching in a remote community further solidified her belief in the power of video games. She witnessed how games could engage students who struggled with traditional lessons. By using the Nintendo Wii and its sports game, she saw attendance rates soar.
This inspired her to explore the connection between education and games, leading to an honors degree and eventually a Ph.D. program. Her work focused on raising awareness about domestic violence through gaming, always with the goal of creating inclusive and engaging experiences.
The Gender Gap in the Gaming Industry
When discussing the challenges faced by women and nonbinary individuals in the gaming industry, Emery highlights a stark contrast. While the player base is evenly split between male and female, with nonbinary individuals also represented, the same cannot be said for game developers. In Australia, for example, only 22% of game developers identify as female, a statistic that needs addressing.
"The makeup of those making games should reflect the people who are playing them," Emery emphasizes. "It's about representation and ensuring that everyone feels included."
AI's Role: A Double-Edged Sword
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize game development, but Emery cautions against relying solely on AI. While AI can bring ideas to life, it lacks the human element that makes games engaging. AI-created games, she argues, will always be recreations of existing games, missing the unique stories and experiences that make gaming so captivating.
"AI can code, but it hasn't lived your life. It doesn't have your friends or your dreams."
Advice for Aspiring Game Developers
For those interested in the gaming industry, Emery's advice is simple: start making your own games. Whether it's on paper, using free game engines like Scratch or Twine, or playing with friends, the key is to practice and playtest. Game development is a repetitive process, but it's also a rewarding one.
"There's no failure in games. There's a restart. Just like Mario, you keep trying until you succeed."
Susannah Emery's work is a testament to the power of gaming as a medium for social change. Her games not only entertain but also educate, ensuring that neurodivergent experiences are understood and accommodated.
