Background
The Problem
ADHD is frequently misrepresented and parodied in fictional media, which can negatively impact how the public perceives the disorder, ultimately leading to a lack of empathy and understanding.
INSIGHTS
The misrepresentation of ADHD in fictional media can make those with ADHD feel alienated or antagonized. Positive representation allows for a greater understanding and empathy. Like many mental health disorders, ADHD is diverse and complex in its symptoms and effects everyone differently.
Objective
To dismantle the frequent misconceptions of ADHD in fictional media in order to promote a better understanding of the disorder. The goal is to create a work of fiction that depicts the true complexities of ADHD and allows those with the disorder to embrace their unique strengths.
The solution
A video game that relies heavily on storytelling and decision making. It will feature a cast of characters that each depict a different aspect of ADHD, showcasing their individual strengths and character traits. ADHD won’t be seen as a weakness, but rather a strength in character that will progress the story. Since more people are playing video games now than ever before, and it’s a genre that often surpasses the reach of television and comic books. It would be aimed at teens and young adults, anywhere from 15 years and older, who either have ADHD, know somebody with it, or perhaps they just love meaningful games.
The story features Theo, a young girl living in a small west coast town. She and her
friends are street artists, notorious for their murals around town. Eventually, tension
within the group causes a rift, ultimately separating the friends. Distressed, Theo is
soon faced with a nightmare of a large monster, and it seems to be trying to convey
a warning. The next day, she discovers that her friends are nowhere to be found
around town, and she is determined to get them back. Theo soon realizes that she
now has the ability to travel within her friend’s murals, and it might just be the key
to getting her friends back home.
Theo is the protagonist and playable character.
The ability to choose many of her dialogue
options and path will allow for the player to
connect with her. She is kind and empathetic,
often acting as the glue that keeps the friends
together. She embodies the anxiety that is
often a symptom of ADHD.
Nolan, Ronnie, Liam and Maeve are Theo’s closest friends and ultimately the driving force of the game. After they disappear, Theo soon discovers that she’s able to travel within her friend’s murals. There, she meets up with each of them, trapped within the mural, and they must work together to find their way out. As the title suggests, I wanted their personalities to be brought out by colour schemes and imagery, which is reflected in each of their murals and unique styles.
Additional mural sketches
Additional mural sketches
Additional mural sketches
Character sketches
Character sketches
Character sketches
Character sketches
Character sketches