Background

In this game, players engage with individuals who are often ignored in the Berlin metro, gradually uncovering their stories and personal backgrounds. Through these conversations, the once-invisible become visible, both in the game and in players’ awareness.

Goals

In my thesis, I was researching Procedural Rhetoric, the concept describing the way video games can use rules to communicate ideas and potentially produce behavioral changes.

Having players engage directly with the personal stories of homeless individuals in the game aims to humanize a social issue, allowing them to feel more connected to and compassionate towards people in similar situations in real life. Further, the game is supposed to encourage a deeper reflection on real-world social issues, challenging players to question their own beliefs and the systems that shape their perspectives.

Challenges

This project required managing a high workload as a solo developer, portraying homelessness with sensitivity, integrating nuanced procedural rhetoric, and crafting engaging gameplay that fosters empathy and awareness. These challenges were intensified by the responsibility of tackling a socially significant theme alone, making it crucial to navigate each aspect thoughtfully.