She Could Fly: A Game That Brings OCD Awareness to Life
Episode Overview
She Could Fly uses gameplay to mimic the repetitive thoughts of OCD. The game includes real-life documentary clips to educate players. OCD is often misunderstood and trivialised. Timely access to treatment is crucial for managing OCD. The game aims to raise awareness and reduce stigma around OCD.
It was such a cool experience like to see how creatively such difficult experiences could be shown and conveyed to people without the experience
Ever wondered how a video game could help you understand the complexities of OCD? This episode of People First Radio dives into the innovative game She Could Fly, which aims to educate players about obsessive-compulsive disorder. Sara Kenney and Mairéad Ruane, key members of the creative team, share their journey in developing this unique game.
Inspired by the graphic novel of the same name, She Could Fly isn't just a straight adaptation but a creative blend of documentary and interactive gameplay. The game places you in a looping escape scenario, mirroring the repetitive thoughts experienced by those with OCD. Through the gameplay, you transition between the game world and real-life documentary clips featuring experts and individuals with lived experiences.
The aim is to break down misconceptions and trivialisation surrounding OCD, making it clear that it's more than just a quirk about cleanliness. Sara and Mairéad explain how they incorporated real-life experiences and scientific insights to create a game that’s both educational and engaging. They also discuss the importance of recognising and treating OCD, highlighting the need for better mental health services and funding.
If you're curious about how a game can shed light on mental health issues or just looking for an eye-opening experience, this episode is a must-listen. Ready to see OCD from a new perspective?