Known for: The Night Journey (2007), Walden, a game (2017)
Biography:
Tracy Fullerton is an American game designer, educator, and writer, born in 1965. She is best known for her contributions to experimental game design and her influential role in game education. Fullerton is a professor and the former director of the USC Games program at the University of Southern California, one of the world’s leading institutions for game design.
Career beginnings:
Fullerton started her career in interactive media during the 1990s, working on a variety of projects that blended storytelling and technology. Over time, she moved toward more experimental approaches, exploring how games can serve as artistic and philosophical experiences rather than purely commercial products.
Notable works and release dates:
- The Night Journey — 2007
- Walden, a game — 2017
Style and design philosophy:
Fullerton’s design philosophy emphasizes games as a medium for reflection, art, and cultural commentary. The Night Journey, created in collaboration with artist Bill Viola, is considered one of the earliest experimental art games. Walden, a game invites players to live a simplified life inspired by Henry David Thoreau’s writings, blending philosophy and interactive design.
Recognition and awards:
- Walden, a game won multiple awards, including recognition from the Game Developers Choice Awards.
- Fullerton is a recipient of the IndieCade Trailblazer Award for her contributions to experimental games.
- Her book Game Design Workshop is widely used in universities and is considered a foundational text in the study of game design.
Sources:
- Wikipedia
- USC Games Faculty Profiles
- Game Design Workshop (book by Tracy Fullerton)
- IndieCade coverage