"We absolutely need diversity [in game designers]. And not just diversity of gender, but diversity of cultures, of ethnicity, of sexuality. If we want to reach beyond the audience we have we've got to bring in more players, and to bring in more players we've got to bring in people who might be able to reach those players."
About Brenda Romero
Brenda Romero — Life and Legacy
Brenda Romero is a prominent game designer whose work has significantly impacted the gaming industry, particularly in the realm of narrative-driven experiences. She is best known for her game 'Train', which uses gameplay mechanics to explore themes of loss and moral choices, illustrating how games can serve as powerful storytelling tools. Romero's core philosophy revolves around the idea that games are not just entertainment but a means to explore the human condition. She famously stated, 'Games are a way to explore the human condition,' which underscores her belief in the medium's potential to provoke thought and evoke empathy. This perspective challenges traditional views of gaming as a purely recreational activity, positioning it instead as a platform for meaningful dialogue and reflection. Her commitment to player agency is evident in her design approach, where she emphasizes the importance of allowing players to make impactful choices that shape their gaming experience. This focus on empowerment not only enhances player engagement but also fosters a deeper emotional connection to the narratives being told. Romero's work continues to resonate today, as it encourages both developers and players to view games as a significant cultural medium capable of addressing complex social issues.
Quote collection
Brenda Romero quotes
4 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"The gaming industry is a fairly liberal, hip place, and if you're making games people really don't care what your gender is. At least this has been my experience."
"Sometimes I'm irritated because if you're running around in a game, and you're half-naked in a game, this is a choice that I may not have personally chosen to look like this to somebody I'm talking to in a game world, but I am."
"I don't think we should have sex in games. But I think we should have the right to have it. We should have the full range of human experience. It's an art form like any other art form. For me, that's the importance of preserving it."