Remap Radio Can a Podcast Help a Visa Application?
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Feb 2, 2026 Cindy Fan, game designer and co-founder of Broken Sigs, and Luke Li, co-founder and studio lead, share their journey from NYU to making indie games in New York. They discuss pursuing an O-1 visa, why New York shapes their work, the stress of immigration timelines, and how their projects Hilltop Funeral and Incretion reflect community and belonging.
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Press Pitch Tied To Visa Deadline
- Luke emailed Patrick asking for press coverage because Broken Sigs' visa statuses were expiring and press would support their O-1 petition.
- The team hoped media attention would serve as evidence of their artistic impact to U.S. immigration officials.
Publisher Talks Changed Plans
- The team weighed returning to China after publisher discussions and realized indie development there felt creatively constrained.
- They decided to stay in New York because their games and networks were rooted in the city’s scene.
O-1 As An Emerging Talent Route
- Broken Sigs came on F-1 student visas and now target the O-1 to remain in the U.S.
- The O-1 route they pursue emphasizes recognized achievement and media evidence of influence.