The Game Design Round Table
#321 Civilization Series 5 with Will Thompson
Jul 16, 2024
Will Thompson, an instructional game designer and the creator of Winter Rabbit, joins to discuss integrating Indigenous technologies and values into gaming. He highlights the importance of cultural representation, showcasing how Cherokee artists influence his work. The conversation dives into the unique governance systems of Indigenous cultures, challenging existing game frameworks with the Four C's—conservation, continuation, cultivation, and competition. They also explore the rich history of Mississippian culture and its implications for modern gaming narratives.
47:21
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Quick takeaways
- Will Thompson's development of Winter Rabbit emphasizes the integration of Indigenous values through a new framework, the Four C's, promoting sustainability and interconnectedness over traditional imperialistic gameplay models.
- The podcast highlights the importance of accurately representing Indigenous cultures in games by prioritizing historical context and community involvement to create narratives that honor cultural complexities.
Deep dives
The Innovations of Winter Rabbit
The game Winter Rabbit, designed by Will Thompson, is set to launch soon, following the successful release of his previous title, Paleo Vet. A significant aspect of Winter Rabbit's development includes collaboration with talented artists, including Cherokee artist Kendra Swafford, who is creating hand-drawn watercolor images, and graphic designer Johnny Catcher. The game has undergone extensive playtesting and refinement to enhance its elegance and gameplay experience. Additionally, a Cherokee translation is being prepared, emphasizing the game's cultural significance and commitment to representation.
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