How to Tell Meaningful Stories Through Games with Paula Angela Escuadra (Season 2, Episode 1)

Safe Space: The Video Games Mental Health Podcast

In the first episode of Season 2 of the Safe Space Podcast, Rosie talks to Paula Angela Escuadra (she/her) about her vast experience within the game development space where she has broadened the conversation around inclusivity, representation, sustainability and climate consciousness.

We talk about the importance of using games to portray important messages, and how it differs from messages within more static media such as films and books, and what steps developers can take to implement these messages in ethical and proactive ways.

We also discuss the effect that video games can have on player's introspection and identity, and how it can act as a support mechanism to those who may often feel unsafe to be themselves in person.

About Paula

Paula Angela Escuadra (She/Her) has spent 12+ years elevating the power games have to redefine our relationship with failure and create meaning. She leads research for Xbox Game Studios Cloud Publishing, helping developers make great games that foster meaningful communities. She co-founded IGDA Climate Special Interest Group, co-authoring its newly released Environmental Game Design Playbook. She’s also on Cologne Game Lab’s advisory board with a focus on unlocking sustainability competencies.

(Lastly, she’s a very strong advocate for community care, psychological safety, and dog cuddling as a form of self-care.)

Links

Paula's LinkedIn

IGDA Climate SIG

Cultural Heritage Game Jam Panel Discussion