Today, Whitethorn Games — publisher of inclusive, accessible, easy-going independent games — is thrilled to announce that ID@Xbox, Safe In Our World, and Take This will join them during the publisher’s upcoming Whitethorn Winter 2024 Showcase this February. Along with Whitethorn Games, these industry leaders are committed to enhancing the gaming industry by fostering a more inclusive, accessible, and representative space for developers, industry professionals, and gamers alike. During the showcase, they will share ongoing efforts to amplify underrepresented voices in game development, foster mental health awareness, discuss positive initiatives within the gaming community, and create an accessible space for as many players as possible.
"We’re thrilled for the opportunity to join with ID@Xbox, Safe In Our World, and Take This to showcase our commitment to making this industry a wider, more welcoming, more inclusive place for everyone,” said Matthew White, CEO of Whitethorn Games. “Together, we are shaping a future where every voice is heard, every player is represented, and the gaming experience is enriched for all."
Taking place on February 8 at 1:00 PM EST / 11:00 AM PST on Whitethorn Games’ YouTube, Twitch, and Steam Page, the publisher will share exclusive reveals about new and upcoming games, including Botany Manor, Magical Delicacy, and Mythwrecked: Ambrosia Island, provide behind-the-scenes access to their partner studios and team, and offer insight into their efforts in accessibility. Viewers will hear from the organizations that Whitethorn Games has worked closely with to help bring diverse, inclusive, and accessible games to players everywhere.
ID@Xbox Developer Acceleration Program: The ID@Xbox Developer Acceleration Program’s mission is to empower underrepresented creators with the resources and information needed to bring their creativity, innovation, and originality to Xbox. By providing crucial resources, mentorship, and financial support, the program aims to break down barriers, ensuring diverse developers have the tools and opportunities needed to thrive in game development. This initiative underscores ID@Xbox's commitment to fostering inclusivity and driving positive change within the gaming community. Learn more about the ID@Xbox Developer Acceleration Program here.
Safe In Our World: Since 2019, Safe In Our World has dedicated itself to promoting positive mental health and well-being for players, developers, publishers, retailers, and other contributors to the gaming industry. With an overarching mission to facilitate conversations that can bring about transformative change in the industry's culture and foster a caring, supportive environment, Safe In Our World serves as a go-to resource for players and developers dealing with mental health issues, a place to ask for help, access information, and support systems. For more information, visit https://safeinourworld.org.
Take This: Take This was the first mental health non-profit to serve the gaming community. Since 2012, our mission has been to decrease the stigma around mental health challenges in gaming spaces. Take This was founded on the idea that it’s dangerous to go alone, and that games can bring community, connection, empowerment, and joy into people’s lives. Take This fulfills its mission by supporting game players, developers, and content creators with mental health information, original research, advocacy, and resources. Our vision is a game community that welcomes and supports people experiencing mental health challenges, and that recognizes the humanity and mental health of game creators.
Visit https://www.takethis.org to learn more.
For more information about the Whitethorn Winter 2024 Showcase and to save the date, visit https://whitethorngames.com/wtw-2024.
Watch the Whitethorn Winter 2023 Showcase here.
Follow Whitethorn Games on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch, join the official Whitethorn Games Discord, and visit https://whitethorngames.com.
