The Bachelor’s thesis «No Longer» explores the long-term potential of negotiating climate change and ecological sustainability in video games. Drawing on insights and strategies from climate communication, it intertwines emotional storytelling with strategically fast-paced and absurd actions at the gameplay level in this physics-based platformer, in order to create awareness of the impending climate collapse. The main protagonist is a highly elastic polar bear that stretches its way through the melting Arctic as it fights for survival.
Podcast.
How did you come across your topic? Where do you generally find inspiration for your artistic practice?
I’ve already explored complex topics such as environmental sustainability in previous semester projects. I find the climate debate in everyday life and politics particularly frustrating, as the same arguments and facts are repeated over and over again – which, in my view, doesn’t convince anyone. This inspired me to use my skills as a game designer to bring a fresh perspective to the climate debate.
What makes your project unique?
In my project, I’m exploring strategies for climate communication and deliberately incorporate them into the game to amplify the impact of the message. Whilst there is a vast body of research on climate communication, there is very little specifically relating to video games. In my game, humor and seriousness come together in a way that has rarely been seen in games before. With «No Longer», I want to demonstrate the potential of video games to communicate environmental sustainability.
What technological innovations set your game apart?
I designed the main character, a polar bear, using a physics-based rope system. The aim was for the bear’s body to behave like an elastic band. Getting this simulation to work in Unity was a major but exciting challenge.
«My studies give me the chance to explore my creativity whilst working with other people.» – Yasmina Kupferschmid
Gameplay.