EP30. Narrative Video Game Benefits for
Highly Sensitive People
This episode relates to Kaylin’s Master’s thesis/Capstone work, which centers on “Playing the Self: How Narrative RPGs Foster Identification and Transformation for Highly Sensitive People.” By applying the updated HSP-R Scale, we discuss the eudaimonic benefits of narrative Role Playing Games (RPGs) for HSPs. Storytelling, the element of choice, parasocial relationships, identification, transportation, and other topics are fair game! Of course, we will mix in some theories and models, but the heart of this episode is Kaylin’s love of video games, especially “Skyrim” and “The Witcher 3.” The two games mean so much to her and so many others. This work aims to continue reducing stigmas for sensitivity and video games by showing HSPs how they can reconcile the parts of themselves. Video games have been integral to Kaylin’s life, from conversation starters to mental health interventions. Narrative RPGs (and other narrative forms) have such intrinsic value for HSPs – and everyone!
⚜️ Below: Where my "official" intersection of communications, media psychology, and video games began. ⚜️
EP8. Transforming The Way We Talk About Death + Grief with Spiritfarer's Nicolas Guérin
“Everyone that we’ve had contact with still lives in us.” While Spiritfarer is a “cozy management game about dying,” it is much more than it appears on the surface. Underneath its multitude of layers lies an experience that has the power to change perspectives and the way we view video games as an art form. Kaylin talks with Spiritfarer’s and Thunder Lotus Games’ Creative Director Nicolas Guérin about the rationale and inspiration behind this life-changing game. With more than one million downloads, it’s transforming the ways players look at death and how we view video games in general. We talk about how to become more comfortable with uncomfortable topics, like death and grief, as well as character development, our own grief journeys, managing your mental health when working on a game like this, and so much more.
