A Quebec-produced video game named “South of Midnight,” set in a fictionalized version of the American Deep South, emerged as the winner of the top prize at the recent Canadian Game Awards. This victory reflects a larger theme within Canada’s gaming industry.
Canada stands as a prominent player in the global gaming sector, with thousands employed in various studios and a contribution of $5.5 billion to the country’s GDP, as reported by the Entertainment Software Association of Canada. However, despite the multitude of games originating from Canada, only a few are distinctly set in the country.
This disparity was evident at the awards ceremony, where none of the Game of the Year nominees featured Canadian settings. Nevertheless, a video presentation highlighted the significant contributions of Canadian developers to the industry. The video emphasized that Canada propels gaming advancement by enriching the conversation, showcasing the expansive, human, and quietly ambitious nature of the art form, featuring nominated Canadian-made games and picturesque Canadian locations like Montreal, the Prairies, and B.C.
Some Canadian developers express challenges in marketing explicitly Canadian games to investors, while others view the country’s landscapes, cities, and values as an untapped creative asset, particularly amid cultural and economic tensions with the U.S.
Guillaume Provost, head of Compulsion Games, the studio behind “South of Midnight,” emphasized the importance of broadening horizons beyond stereotypical Canadian themes like hockey in Montreal. He underlined the need for diversity in game settings.
While some independent studios are beginning to create games firmly rooted in Canada, creators are divided on whether emphasizing Canadian identity in games enhances their appeal or poses marketing difficulties.
At the XP Gaming Summit in Toronto, indie developers engaged in discussions with peers, publishers, and potential investors. Many showcased games with common settings like fantasy or science fiction, with subtle Canadian references incorporated.
However, developers have previously faced resistance from investors when proposing games set in explicitly Canadian locations, fearing limited global marketability. Sean Browning, working on “Retroronto,” faced skepticism from investors who suggested a more globally appealing setting than Toronto.
Joel Burgess of Soft Rains challenged the notion that Canadian-themed games lack marketability, advocating for telling unique stories and showcasing Canadian culture within the gaming landscape. “Ambrosia Sky,” a game by Soft Rains, though set in space, reflects Canadian values of communal care and support during crises.
Despite hurdles, “North Shore,” an exploration game centered around skating in a wintry northern Ontario setting, has garnered attention for its unapologetically Canadian theme. The developers drew inspiration from Canadian artists to portray the distinct landscape of the Canadian Shield.
While creatives may venture into unfamiliar settings to explore new realms, celebrating local culture can be a powerful tool in crafting impactful games. Guillaume Provost highlighted the significance of sharing local culture with the world through gaming, pointing out the potential for Canadian games to achieve global success.
In essence, the Canadian gaming industry grapples with the balance between embracing Canadian identity in games and navigating global market expectations. The evolving landscape presents opportunities for developers to showcase Canada’s unique essence while appealing to a broader audience worldwide.
