You Won’t Believe The Games That Explore The Importance Of Journalism

Summary

  • Video games explore the challenges and importance of journalism, showing why the profession and truth matter.
  • Headliner: NoviNews simulates the consequences of choosing which stories to publish and how they impact the game’s world.
  • Beyond Good and Evil follows Jade, an action reporter uncovering a government conspiracy in a world full of deception.

Journalism isn’t limited to discussing popular video games; instead, it serves as a window to the world, informing people about current events, who’s involved, and the reasoning behind them. Journalists strive to equip people with the information they require to engage effectively in society, because knowledge empowers us.

Video games delve into this crucial vocation too. Ranging from a humorous, horror-infused adventure with companions, to sharp satire, these titles examine the trials of news gathering and dissemination, as well as the broader implications for society. In essence, these games underscore the importance of journalism and truth in today’s world more than ever before.

7. The Headliners

Creepy Co-Op Photojournalism

As a gamer immersed in “The Headliners”, I team up with others on thrilling missions to snag photos for breaking news. A good chunk of these stories delve into the supernatural, featuring creatures reminiscent of those terrifying ones I’ve battled in my favorite game, Half-Life 2.

As a gamer, I’m part of a team that snaps unique images of diverse subjects to earn bonus rewards. Once we’ve gathered all the shots, it’s time for us to hop back aboard our chopper, ready to whisk us home. Upon returning, the total worth of our photos gets calculated at base camp. The best part? Seeing our photos beautifully framed and showcased on the front pages of newspapers!

6. Dead Rising

Uncovering A Zombie Conspiracy

In the initial installment of the Dead Rising series, the protagonist, photojournalist Frank West, finds himself trapped inside a mall teeming with zombies. To survive, he must employ all available resources to fend off the relentless zombie hordes, and save any hostages before a helicopter arrives to rescue him.

As a photographer specializing in journalism, Frank captures images of the game’s occurrences, antagonists, and backdrop. The primary storyline tasks him with exposing the secret plot behind the zombie infestation. Yet, certain photo chances can only materialize when Frank is at the correct spot at the opportune moment, making it essential for players to exercise good timing and judgment.

5. Times And Galaxy

AI Journalism

Platforms PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, macOS
Released May 2, 2023
Developer Copychaser Games
Genre Adventure

If you’re a fan of the sci-fi satire in Futurama, then Times and Galaxy offers a similar experience. Newbie journalists can create their own robot reporter and venture out to various planets for assignments. They’ll cover exciting topics such as spaceship accidents and an intergalactic cat show!

In simpler terms, playing this game is similar to experiencing a typical point-and-click adventure. The robot reporter navigates through diverse locations gathering information and interviewing people. Depending on the questions asked, new responses are unveiled. Once all areas have been thoroughly examined, the game offers a blueprint for organizing the gathered material into a coherent story that can be published.

4. Editor’s Hell

The Perils of Running A Newspaper In An Autocratic Country

Platforms PC
Released December 30, 2022
Developer Pixelated Goose Games
Genre Simulation, Strategy

In the fictional world of Wabrinsk, The Editor’s Dilemma places you in charge of a newspaper. You manage a team of journalists, each with unique perspectives on the country. You can assign stories to them, and if they are reluctant, you may have to make it compulsory for them to write it.

Newspaper content and headlines can be adjusted to present a pro-government, anti-government, or neutral viewpoint on Wabrinsk’s leadership. This decision affects the number of papers sold in regions where they are circulated. The aim is to strike a balance between sales and employee happiness, all while being aware of the possible repercussions from the authoritarian regime.

3. Headliner: NoviNews

The Consequences Of What Goes Into The News

Platforms PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, macOS, Linux
Released October 23, 2018
Developer Unbound Creations
Genre Adventure, Simulation

As a dedicated follower, I can’t help but be captivated by NoviNews – a blend of newspaper simulation and visual novel that keeps me hooked! During the day, I get to play the role of a news editor, deciding which stories make it to the headlines with a straightforward accept or decline system. But the real charm comes when I return home, interacting with a diverse cast of characters like the friendly corner store owner and his daughter, my own brother, and even a potential love interest from work. Each encounter adds another layer to this immersive narrative experience!

The stories players decide to share within the game can alter its universe, offering various scenarios. For instance, they might opt to post advertisements for a beverage claimed to generate income, yet potentially posing health risks for consumers. Advocating for global healthcare could make medication more accessible for the store owner’s child, though she may not remain unchanged. If the paper takes an extreme anti-government stand, the editor risks having their sibling detained in a government labor camp.

2. Beyond Good And Evil

A Hunt For The Truth

In another phrasing, “Beyond Good and Evil” could be considered Michel Ancel’s masterpiece, a game that places players on the planet Hillys as Jade, a wildlife photographer who operates a sanctuary for children alongside her uncle, Pey’j, a warthog. The story unfolds in a time when Hillys is caught in the midst of an interstellar conflict with the DomZ, an alien force, and the Alpha Sections, a military group, are attempting to repel them.

In her photography job, Jade uncovers that IRIS, a secretive rebel organization, is not as clear-cut good as she initially thought; they might be intertwined with the enemies she’s been investigating. On this assignment from IRIS, Jade delves into military sites to unearth Alpha Section’s plot against the Hillyan people. Simultaneously, she captures images of indigenous wildlife for essential credits. As her photos are shared, protests erupt and escalate across the game’s storyline, demonstrating the powerful influence of Jade’s work on the masses.

1. We Become What We Behold

A Short Game About A Self-Perpetuating Cycle

Platforms PC
Released October 18, 2016
Developer Mismatch Studio
Genre Casual

The Short, Free Game ‘We Become What We Behold’ on itch.io, despite its low cost, does not reflect its depth or influence through its store value. It is a straightforward point-and-click game where you capture images of stick figures in their daily routines for sensationalized headlines on the news.

Title Implies: The Influence of News on Viewers’ Perspective of Global Events

In this scenario, the photographer’s supervisor concentrates solely on images that garner high viewership, which often involve portrayals of conflicts and disputes between individuals with square heads and round heads. This escalation of suspicion and hostility among squares and circles creates even more photo opportunities, fueling the perpetuation of fear-based media content. The conclusion is not for the sensitive, but the message remains evident.

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2025-03-28 16:46