Read on Twitter
Why Wholesome? 
Woke up to discussion on what wholesome means/why does it matter, so I wanted to provide a thread on my thoughts since this is a topic near and dear to my heart!
1/9
What are 'wholesome games'?
A generalized term to describe games with overall themes of kindness, compassion, inclusivity, and empathy.
2/9
A generalized term to describe games with overall themes of kindness, compassion, inclusivity, and empathy.
2/9
Games can reinforce this in a variety of ways!
Through their aesthetics, via mechanics, narrative & themes, visible representation, accessibility, etc.
3/9
Through their aesthetics, via mechanics, narrative & themes, visible representation, accessibility, etc.
3/9
Wholesome can also be considered an umbrella label that fits many games in a spectrum underneath it.
Can there be wholesome games that include heavy topics? Political themes? Elements of violence? Yes, yes, and yes!
4/9
Can there be wholesome games that include heavy topics? Political themes? Elements of violence? Yes, yes, and yes!
4/9
Wholesome is not simply about forced positivity or being cute/dismissive of reality.
It prioritizes of self-reflection and empathy by providing a space where folks can explore and examine serious topics in an environment that feels safe and/or cozy
5/9
It prioritizes of self-reflection and empathy by providing a space where folks can explore and examine serious topics in an environment that feels safe and/or cozy
5/9
Rather than consider it a blanket term for 'cute' or 'only happy', I'd encourage folks to explore and reflect on the nuance that can happen within this category, as there's lots (and it can make for some really awesome conversation!!)
6/9
6/9
Labels and tags like this can be imprecise, which is why I am happy this discussion is happening: it's important!
Games are new enough, the use of this word is still new enough, that we SHOULD articulate what we're hoping to convey when we use it!
7/9
Games are new enough, the use of this word is still new enough, that we SHOULD articulate what we're hoping to convey when we use it!
7/9
Ultimately, my hope with using 'wholesome' to describe games?
To be able to find a common language with other folks who value this type of experience so we can better celebrate and communicate with one another when we DO find these games to play!
8/9
To be able to find a common language with other folks who value this type of experience so we can better celebrate and communicate with one another when we DO find these games to play!
8/9
Fun fact: there are names for these kind of movements in media. Hopepunk and New Sincerity as two of the more prominent ones. Check 'em out!
This is all about believing that trying/caring/having faith in humanity (unironically!) is a form of bravery and strength!
9/9
This is all about believing that trying/caring/having faith in humanity (unironically!) is a form of bravery and strength!
9/9
BONUS!
For a fun read that inspired a lot of my thinking around coziness and general wholesomeness in games, please check out this article by a group of folks I admire:
https://www.projecthorseshoe.com/reports/featured/ph17r3.htm
For a fun read that inspired a lot of my thinking around coziness and general wholesomeness in games, please check out this article by a group of folks I admire:
https://www.projecthorseshoe.com/reports/featured/ph17r3.htm
Okay, I lied one more thing!
I've spent LOTS of time thinking about this topic ~ if you want to hear more, check out my first PAX Panel! It features folks like @pkkaos, @Wallstormer , and @amblingpanda who are very articulate and wonderful ^_^
I've spent LOTS of time thinking about this topic ~ if you want to hear more, check out my first PAX Panel! It features folks like @pkkaos, @Wallstormer , and @amblingpanda who are very articulate and wonderful ^_^
