1. Hi there! What's your name? Want to introduce yourself?
Hello hello! My name is Emily, I'm 17, and I am new to creating games.
2. Did you participate in the last jam we held? If so, what do you plan on doing better this time? If not, what's your reason for joining?
I did not, but I wish I did! I wanted to join because I am on summer vacation and wanted to be productive. Learning a new skill definitely has put me in a better head space. Now, I actually feel passionate about waking up, so thanks for the game jam!
3. What games are your favorites? Did any of them inspire you, or made you want to make your own?
Stardew Valley, Minecraft, GTA 5, The Sims, and Fallout 4 are my favorite games. Visual novels, particularly Don't Take it Personally, Babe, It just Ain't Your Story and Gone Home, have inspired me to create stories that have the ability to help others.
4. Do you have experience with game development? What did you do/with what engine?
Over the summer I have tried to work with visual scripting in Unreal along with some basic block coding knowledge. As of lately, Renpy has been a great resource to create the games I actually want to make. It is super easy to learn, user friendly, and making progress feels attainable.
5. Tell us about something you're passionate about!
I really love to help others. In my free time, I volunteer at my local library, where I help to teach first graders and kinder gardeners how to code with LEGOs. It is really satisfying to watch young minds work. I also love to play the ukulele, video games, and basketball. 9 times out of 10 you can catch me talking about philosophy with anyone that will listen!
6. What are your goals for this game jam?
So far, I want to create a basic concept of a game that runs smoothly, and can create an impact on someone's life. Whether that might be a quick chuckle, or a deep discussion with a friend, I would like to leave a lasting thought in peoples' minds. With this particular game I am making, I want everyone to understand that the coming out process isn't linear. Everyone goes through different struggles, battles, and victories. We need to take a step back and look at other perspectives. Thank you for reading my answers, and have a lovely day!