Somehow in my twenty+ years in game development, I was never blessed with the opportunity to attend the Games for Change Festival. So you can imagine my joy when I learned that Take This traditionally attends, and that as the new Executive Director I had the opportunity to join in on the magic. So last week I hopped on a plane, headed to The Glasshouse in NYC, and got to experience my very first Games for Change Festival.
This year’s theme was ‘Re-imaging Play’ and I can say from personal experience, it succeeded in helping me re-imagine a better future for the game industry.
Game development is not always the kindest of environments, and I will admit I have become quite cynical about various aspects of the industry. We are facing truly unprecedented times, with so many wonderful, talented, and compassionate people struggling in the face of layoffs due to market pressures, and let’s be frank, a widespread failure in leadership. It’s easy to become jaded in the wake of such things, and forget about the magic of what drew you to gamedev in the first place; The joy and creative passion of people working to build something new together.
You know that scene in The Grinch in which his heart suddenly grows three times the size? That’s how I felt afterin the wake of meeting so many amazing people at Games for Change. It’s such a unique mix of people approaching the topic of games from different and creative perspectives. You’ve got academics, policy makers, game developers, nonprofits, and so many others all in the same space working together to create positive change in the world. What’s not to be inspired by?
A few small highlights, from dozens of great moments:
Former Take This Alumni and all around badass Dr. Rachel Kowert announced a new whitepaper for Raising Good Gamers, a project that aims to provide a practical roadmap for parents looking to turn gaming from a source of conflict to a source of powerful connection with their children. You can catch her talk here: ‘From Panic to Partnership: Making SPACE for Engaged Parenting’
A fantastic panel on Measuring Transformative Change with expert advice from Meghan Gardner (Cultura Connector), Elizabeth M. H. Newbury (Center for Technology, Innovation and Space), Risa Ward and Tracy Costigan (Crisis Text Line).
Digital Thriving Salon: George E. Osborn (Power Play) – Game industry expert George Osborn’s Power Play book release and networking event, presented by the great crew over at Thriving in Games Group.
A great discussion with Michael Frazier (SKDK), Maria Tamellini (GamerSafer), Michael Robb (Common Sense Media), and Jesse Mahler (Futures Without Violence) exploring the powerful opportunity in using games to shape healthy models of masculinity, connection, and community. You can catch the talk here: Advancing Belonging, Safety, and Mental Health for Young Men Online.
Getting to play an amazing tabletop game Ciclo do Poder, which aims to educate about the menstrual cycle without stigma, in a way that’s fun and collaborative.
And of course, I’d be remiss if I did not mention the adorable and completely distracting doggo wearing sunglasses and carrying her own bag around the convention. Apologies to anyone I was speaking with and completely lost my train of thought mid-sentence because I’m a sucker for cute animals.
In closing, a huge thank you to Susanna Pollock and the whole Games for Change Festival team for being so welcoming. It was one heck of a great experience, and I am left 1) super inspired, and 2) once again excited for what the future holds. A sincere thank you for lighting that fire in my heart again.
Tip: If you weren’t able to attend in person, you’re in luck! You can find recordings of all of the main stage talks on the 2026 Games for Change Festival Youtube channel!
To everyone I met at the event (and those I have yet to meet) I look forward to learning more about you and the great things you’re working on. If you’re working at the intersection of mental health and gaming, or just interested in learning more about Take This, let’s connect! Drop me a line anytime on LinkedIn or via our Contact form!