Recent Media Production grad breaks ground in gaming narratives and cultural representation

In the dynamic realm of video games, where epic adventures and heroic quests reign supreme, one RTA Media Production alum has been defying conventions and flipping traditional video game narratives upside down. Alessandra di Frassineto’s new video game, Oblivescence, is an immersive video game experience that seamlessly blends Indigenous heritage and trauma, introspective narratives, and the intricate dance between perception and reality.

With childhood dreams of being a storyteller, Alessandra di Frassineto never pictured herself eager to pursue a career in the video game industry. But after taking RTA928: Introduction to Game Design taught by Dr. Kristopher Alexander, her aspirations wildly changed, and her debut video game came to fruition. Oblivescence is a third-person semi-open world game that explores themes of Indigenous trauma, perseverance, and identity while pursuing an objective most players are inevitably trying to avoid.

Reimagining the gaming narrative: embracing life and death

In a gaming landscape often dominated by protagonists fighting to survive, Oblivescence takes a bold step in an entirely different direction. Instead of evading the inevitability of life's end, di Frassineto embarked on a mission – inspired after reflecting on trends in the gaming industry – to embrace the profound concept of life's ultimate conclusion.

"I usually see a common denominator in video games where the protagonist is fighting to live," remarked di Frassineto. "So when coming up with one of the main pillars of the game, I wanted to challenge that structure that we see in most games and create a game where rather than being avoidant, the game's core embraces the inevitability of life–death."

Oblivescence represents a profound exploration of memory and perception, individually painted by the actions the user takes. Players revisit the protagonist's past through a retrospective lens, allowing them to rewrite the traumas experienced and imbue valuable teachings throughout the process. Starting the game in a world of black and white, players are tasked with collecting colours to gradually restore the protagonist's vision. And while the protagonist's death marks the climax of the game, it's also one in which they see the world, different for each player based on the actions they take, in all its vivid colours - rather than black and white.

The unique colour coding of each level was inspired by di Frassineto's synesthesia, a sensory phenomenon that interconnects various senses. As players progress through the character’s extraordinary journey, the once-monochromatic world blossoms into a vibrant tapestry of colours based on the choices each player makes. 

Weaving in Indigenous teachings

As a Métis who is deeply connected to her Indigenous heritage, di Frassineto drew inspiration from the Seven Grandfather Teachings, which emphasize core fundamental values offering insight into living a connected, fulfilled and well-rounded life. In Oblivescence, each level corresponds to one of these teachings, guiding players through a reflection on these values in different phases of the protagonist's life in an effort to overcome a traumatic experience. 

“I grew up hearing about the 7 Grandfather Teachings and have applied them indirectly in my daily life,” said di Frassineto. “It’s my connection with Indigenous communities and stories that have naturally propelled my intrinsic desire to create more stories that revolve around an appreciation for Indigenous culture. I also wanted a game where people could reflect, whether they’re Indigenous or not, and where they can learn something about themselves and how they might react to trauma.”

Embracing unique perspectives and addressing market gaps

Oblivescence stands as an innovative response to gaps within the gaming industry. It artfully integrates Indigenous culture, mental health, and introspection into the gaming experience, inviting players to explore their moral compass and personal identity in ways rarely seen in the industry. Her perspective, informed by her lived experiences and connection to her Indigenous heritage, brings a unique voice to the game while also underscoring the importance of embracing viewpoints one might not be familiar with - a value di Frassineto artfully lives by.

"I'm someone who values perspective immensely," said di Frassineto. "I’m a strong believer that your perception of the world can be whatever you make it out to be.”

It’s di Frassineto’s hope that publishing this game will help pave the way for more female-lead and Indigenous representation in the gaming industry, and Oblivescence is a testament to her commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives and enriching the gaming world with narratives that resonate with a wide range of players.

At a time when innovation and representation are more crucial than ever, Oblivescence invites players to explore their own perceptions, immerse themselves in the richness of Indigenous culture, and embark on a journey of self-discovery like no other. Rather than running away from the unique perspectives that bring richness to the world, di Frassineto–much like her game–embraces them.

Interested in reading more? Check out di Frassineto’s website (external link)  to learn more about Oblivescence.

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