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A small video game studio in the Kingston area has achieved a significant milestone. Polyvale Studios won the grand prize in the international contest Citizens, Assemble!, outperforming over fifty competitors from around the world. Their winning game, titled Diem, not only earned a cash prize of $10,000 but also received special recognition for its aesthetic design.
Writer and developer Aric McBay described the studio’s vision as a desire to create a game that offers a unique perspective on political engagement, labeling it a ‘cozy democracy simulator’. The goal was to motivate players to consider how they can come together and create collective solutions for meaningful societal change.
The significance of citizens’ assemblies
This contest was organized by One World or None in collaboration with the Global Game Jam, aiming to enhance discussions about citizens’ assemblies. These assemblies consist of randomly selected individuals charged with shaping public policy, thus democratizing decision-making. Historical examples, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage in Ireland, demonstrate the profound impact these assemblies can have.
Judges’ acclaim and the game’s focus
The judging panel, which included renowned musician and activist Brian Eno, praised Diem for its thoughtful design and storytelling. They noted that the game’s music and visuals create a warm, reflective environment centered on collaboration and hope. Climate action serves as the game’s primary theme, underscoring its relevance in the context of today’s environmental challenges.
Leslie McBay, voice actor and editor, highlighted the importance of citizens’ assemblies in empowering diverse communities to engage in democratic processes. She stressed that games like Diem offer an accessible platform for individuals to learn about and participate in democracy.
Transforming complex systems into engaging gameplay
Composer and sound designer Winnie Liu shared insights into the team’s mission to simplify complex systems, making them engaging for players. She remarked, “Converting intricate systems into captivating gameplay is a clever way to explore possibilities.”
Polyvale Studios benefits from a supportive ecosystem provided by the Baby Ghosts Studio Development Fund, a non-profit organization that advocates for worker-owned studios. Co-founder Dr. Eileen Mary Holowka noted that the studio has successfully embodied its values, creating meaningful work that resonates within the gaming industry.
Accessing the game and its impact
Diem is freely available online at polyvale.org, reflecting the studio’s commitment to making their impactful project accessible to a wider audience. The hope is that through gameplay, individuals will gain awareness of democratic processes and feel empowered to engage in civic life.
Polyvale Studios’ success in the Citizens, Assemble! contest not only highlights their innovative approach to game design but also emphasizes the potential of video games as instruments for social change. By fostering discussions around participatory democracy, Diem encourages players to envision a collective future shaped by collaboration and mutual understanding.