Asian characters in entertainment are often created with either strong ties to martial arts or weak ties to culture. For game developers there is a world of opportunity to bring about fresh and unique narratives, innovating with better representation in the interactive experiences we build. This talk discusses how to ideate nuanced Asian characters with rich cultural backgrounds, tap into heritage-related character traits and layer them into mechanics, ultimately enhancing story, gameplay, and player experience.

This session will also feature a sneak preview of Rooster, a fully funded, story-based adventure based on the animals of the Chinese Zodiac.

This online workshop is open to everyone, worldwide, and is covered by the Pixelles safer space policy.

Workshop Leader: Deborah Chantson

Currently based in Vancouver, Canada, Deborah Chantson is the Writer/Narrative Designer at Sticky Brain Studios. Her career in games and television spans over 16 years, specializing in preschool and educational projects. She was also a Community Manager for 9 years. Deb has written for several games in development, as Co-Head Writer for an unannounced animated preschool series, blogs for Sony PlayStation, and a featured blog on GameDeveloper.com. She is a Writers Guild of Canada member.

Partnership with WBD Access and WB Games Montréal

WB Games Montreal is a video game studio owned by Warner Bros Interactive Entertainment (WBIE). Founded in 2010, we are over 250 members who join forces every day to create unforgettable AAA experiences across all platforms. WB Games Montreal is the studio behind the game Gotham Knights released in October 2022, an open-world third-person action RPG, in which players embody the four knights taking up the mantle of protecting Gotham City after Batman's death.