Many game developers have a deep affinity for data, whether it’s in the form of spreadsheets, pie charts, or feedback boxes. Therefore, Adanna Nedd’s transition from academic research to game development isn’t entirely surprising.
While studying at State College, Pennsylvania in 2021, Nedd served as a research fellow for the iSchool Inclusion Institute (i3). This program prepares students from underrepresented backgrounds for postgraduate study in computer sciences. During her time there, Nedd contributed to two research projects focusing on purchasable skins in games. This experience prompted her to explore the intersection of representation and gaming, a topic that remains significant to her.
“My research aimed to understand how and why players of color choose the in-game skins they purchase in online games like Overwatch or Fortnite,” Nedd shares. “We delved into this because these games often lack diverse skin options, especially those resembling people like me.”
“After these projects, I realized I didn’t enjoy writing research papers as much,” Nedd explains. “So, I began exploring other opportunities.” She was inspired by POC in Play’s presence at various events in the years prior, noting how the organization welcomed questions from Black students and showcased the diversity within the industry.
“I had no idea that ‘game developer’ or ‘games writer’ were actual professions,” Nedd admits. “I reached out to around 50 to 80 individuals to learn about their roles and daily responsibilities. It was eye-opening to discover that formal education from a prestigious university wasn’t a prerequisite.”
When asked about the industry’s landscape, Nedd received mixed responses, acknowledging its notorious challenges for newcomers and existing developers alike.
“Reflecting on these messages now, I realize I was primarily focused on understanding the work involved,” Nedd reflects.
A pivotal moment occurred when Nedd spoke with Kim Belair, the founder of Sweet Baby Inc., which significantly influenced her career trajectory.
“After our conversation, I felt compelled to start building my portfolio. Thanks to Sweet Baby’s support and recommendation, I began working on Spirit Swap,” she says.
Nedd emphasizes the importance of readily connecting with fellow professionals, particularly through initiatives aimed at Black individuals, signaling a positive shift toward diversity in the industry.
“I’m hopeful that as these youngsters mature, they’ll encounter a more inclusive industry,” she remarks.
Nedd now actively introduces game development to students of color, mentoring for programs like Gameheads, which targets students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Teaching game development to elementary schoolers, inspired by a former teacher’s outreach, has become another avenue for Nedd to share her passion.
“While discussing the realities of being a game developer of color can be challenging, I’m committed to fostering connections and passing on my knowledge,” Nedd shares. She recounts her participation in panels focusing on the experiences of Black game developers and cherishes moments like encountering a Black-owned cheesecake shop at Magfest, where the owner expressed excitement upon learning about their profession.
Nedd also offers talks on narrative and character design, providing free resources to aspiring developers and underscoring the wealth of available information online.
Her current project, Spirit Swap: Lo-Fi Beats To Match-3 To, allows her to merge her interests in diverse casts, romance, and magical girl tropes. Nedd is slated to speak about crafting romanceable characters at GDC 2024, a topic she’s passionate about.
Despite her part-time status as a game developer, Nedd aspires to transition into the industry full-time. However, she acknowledges the challenges, especially amidst recent waves of layoffs.
“For now, I prioritize working with supportive teams over specific projects,” Nedd asserts. “Ultimately, I hope for more accessible support systems for aspiring developers, reducing the financial risks associated with pursuing a career in game development.”
