Author

Mary Samblis

Date of Award

5-2024

Degree Type

Honors College Thesis

Academic Program

Computer Science BS

Department

Computing

First Advisor

Craig Carey, Ph.D.

Advisor Department

English

Abstract

This showcase of interactive experiences is designed to simulate and explore the hidden struggles of neurodiversity using game mechanics. It draws on my personal experience as an individual on the autistic spectrum to explore the relationship between game forms, academic scholarship, and critical thinking. The showcase aims to demonstrate the scholarly side of video game development and what video games, as a medium, have the potential to become within academia. Unlike articles or videos, video games have the unique quality to be interactive and immersive, allowing designers to experiment with mechanics as a tool for creating thoughtful and reflective experiences. Drawing on theories of critical game design, my interactive showcase and its critical introduction utilize the language of games to reflect on some of the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals.

Included in

Game Design Commons

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