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Episode Name:
Unveiling the Benefits of Diversity in the Games Industry
Episode Description:
Diversity takes many shapes. In addition to differences in identity, diversity should encompass a difference in thought, background, experiences, skills. The games industry is experiencing a movement toward expanding and deepening our understanding of diversity and it’s an important conversation we need to have.
In today’s episode, we’ll be discussing the value of diversity, how to avoid making mistakes with the best intentions, the benefits it has for all devs and studios, and how having an open mind can create all sorts of opportunities.
Q?Box Round Answers
Most influential/inspiring Game?
I would have to say it’s a tie between Diablo, FF8, Ocarina of Time, Dragon Age, and Morrowind. They each played a unique role
What’s the one major thing you would want to accomplish in your lifetime?
I want to learn how to dance well, like hip/hop, kpop songs, etc. And DJing would be amazing. I would love to play a set one day and just vibe out with the crowd.
What game are you playing now?
Guild Wars 2, Final Fantasy XIV, Tears of the Kingdom
TIPS and ADVICE
We covered quite a bit today. Could you list 3 suggestions or tips you would recommend to indie devs based on our discussion?
- Ask yourself what voices might be missing from your team.
- Indie devs are on the forefront of a lot movements from genre breaking games to mechanics/narratives. Be on the forefront of diversity.
- Get out of your comfort zone. So much good can come from branching out of your typical routine, bubble, etc.
RESOURCES and LINKS
How to get in touch with Jakin?
Website: igda.org/membership
Email: jakin@igda.org
Twitter: @drjakinvela (on pretty much everything, not only Twitter)
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