Stephanie Boluk

Joining the discussion are Stephanie Boluk and Patrick LeMieux, both associate professors at UC Davis specializing in video games. They delve into the innovative mechanics and storytelling of the game 'Mortol,' highlighting its unique death mechanic and aesthetic evolution. The duo also reflects on the nostalgia tied to late 90s gaming, the strategic depth of gameplay, and the political themes within 'Mortol' that address nationalism and colonialism. Their insights and personal anecdotes create a lively conversation about the modern gaming landscape.

Anja Venter (Playtopia program director and researcher from Cape Town) and Ben Rausch (Playtopia program director and indie dev) share festival origins and the DIY, community-first approach. They talk about creating tactile arcade spaces, volunteer docents, Cape Town’s creative culture, funding choices, mentorship, and keeping a festival intimate while scaling. Short, lively conversations about building and sustaining local game scenes.

Join game scholar Stephanie Boluk, who dives deep into narrative and design at UC Davis, and Steve Gillham, an indie game creator, as they unpack the hidden layers of UFO 50. They explore the scavenger hunt's accessible clues and the eerie atmosphere of Miasma Tower, tracing its roots in RPG Maker and examining its critiques of gamification. From bizarre office details to ephemeral encounters, they highlight how the game's design invites both exploration and community engagement, making discoveries feel legendary.

In this conversation, game designers Stephanie Boluk and Patrick LeMieux from UC Davis, along with Trent Kusters from League of Geeks, delve into the unique RPG 'Grimstone'. They share their game development journeys, highlighting Patrick's nostalgia for RPG Maker 2000. The discussion includes the game's emotional character selections, retro gameplay mechanics, and its satirical take on a hellish Texas landscape. They also tackle the challenges players face in navigating the game, from resource management to combat, alongside themes of personal growth and Indigenous representation.

Stephanie Boluk, a game educator from UC Davis, joins fellow faculty member Patrick LeMieux, a speedrunning expert, and Aaron 'ix' Kearsley, a former speedrunner. They dive into Mortol II, discussing its unique gameplay mechanics, including the absence of traditional save systems. The trio explores the chaotic politics of Mortolia and shares hilarious anecdotes from their gaming experiences. They also reflect on the evolving landscape of game design, contrasting nostalgic elements with modern innovations, making for a lively, insightful conversation.