Isaac Olander, the CEO and art director at Tallgran, a Swedish-based studio renowned for its exceptional 3D models in games like League of Legends and the Spider-Man series by Insomniac Games, shed light on the intricate process of accurately representing Black characters in video games. At the esteemed Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2024, Olander’s panel delved into the complexities surrounding the depiction of Black hair in gaming and the ongoing efforts to achieve authenticity and diversity in character design.

Join editor in chief Danielle Riendeau as she delves into the captivating world of indie games with esteemed journalist Joel Couture in the latest episode of the Game Developer Podcast. With the highly anticipated GDC 2024 and the Independent Games Festival just around the corner, Joel shares his insights on curating the renowned “Road to the IGF” series, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the creative processes and philosophies of the IGF finalists through a series of engaging interviews.

Exploring the ancient Mexica culture through the culinary journey of Cacao Cafe is a deeply enriching and enlightening experience. As players immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Maya and Aztec cultures, they are transported back in time to utilize ancient cooking techniques and ingredients to create delectable treats for their café patrons. The meticulous attention to detail in capturing the essence of traditional Mexica cooking methods and tools adds a layer of authenticity and cultural significance to the gameplay.

At the prestigious Game Developers Conference (GDC) in San Francisco in 2024, the legendary game developer Jordan Mechner took center stage to recount the fascinating tale of the creation of one of his earliest and most influential works, Karateka. Known for his iconic contributions to the gaming world with titles like Prince of Persia and The Last Express, Mechner delved into the challenges and triumphs he faced in bringing Karateka to life and its lasting impact on the gaming industry.

The Independent Game Festival (IGF) serves as a platform to honor indie designers and their exceptional work each year, culminating in the prestigious IGF awards at GDC. As we celebrate the winners of the 2024 showcase, let’s unravel the insights shared by the creators behind some of the standout creations, offering a glimpse into the creative process, design inspirations, and the personal stories that shaped their prized games. Seamus McNally grand prize winner Venba, a captivating tale of cooking and cultural connections, was born from designer Abhi’s reflections on the significance of food in South Asian cultures and its role in bridging generational gaps.

When Nintendo unveiled The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in 2017, it was hailed as a milestone in open-world gaming, pushing boundaries in design and technical innovation. The game’s intricate systems empowered players to solve puzzles in creative ways and conquer challenges, leading to some remarkable player-created stunts that showcased the game’s limitless potential. Players immersed themselves in Breath of the Wild’s physics system to such an extent that they transformed ordinary objects into tools for daring acrobatics.

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is set to captivate audiences once again with its upcoming interactive exhibition that promises to bring back the antics of a beloved yet mischievous goose. The exhibition, eagerly awaited by fans of all ages, is a delightful blend of art, technology, and entertainment that is sure to thrill and engage visitors. The immersive experience at ACMI will transport guests into the whimsical world of the mischievous goose, known for its playful and sometimes disruptive behavior.

The world of gaming has long been a realm of diverse and innovative experiences, yet one aspect that remains largely untapped is the potential for culinary exploration within virtual worlds. The art of cooking, a fundamental aspect of human culture and daily life, has the power to enrich gameplay, deepen immersion, and offer players a unique and interactive experience that goes beyond traditional gaming mechanics. In many games, cooking is often relegated to a simple, utilitarian function, serving as a means to replenish health or gain temporary buffs.