DARFUR

Description

Darfur is Dying is an online game designed to serve as an informational entryway to the current humanitarian crisis in the Sudan. The game is an exploration into social-issue driven digital gaming and weaves uncomplicated and immediate mechanisms into the gameplay that seek to effect real world change.

The game provides a window into the experience of the 2.5 million refugees in the Darfur region of Sudan. Players must keep their refugee camp functioning in the face of possible attack by militias. Players can also learn more about the genocide in Darfur that has taken the lives of 400,000 people, and find ways to get involved to help stop this human rights and humanitarian crisis.

Darfur is Dying was developed by a team of students and colleagues lead by Susana Ruiz and Ashley York at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. The project was sponsored by mtvU, in partnership with The Reebok Human Rights Foundation and The International Crisis Group. The development team worked in close collaboration with mtvU, interFUEL, and numerous aid workers, scholars and experts to create what we hope will contribute to an increase in awareness about Darfur.

Awards & Presentations

Governor’s Award

Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Emmys

mtvU Sudan Public Service Campaign, 2006

Margaret Mead Film & Video Festival, 2006

Presentation on Capitol Hill per invitation by members of the U.S. Congress, May 2006

Beacon Award

Cable Television Public Affairs Association

New Media Category, 2007

Best Internet Only Production

BANFF World Television Awards, 2007

Audience Award