Games for Change, the global organisation driving social impact through games and other immersive media, has announced the special award winners of the 2023 Games for Change Awards.
Among the winners is Bungie Inc for its game, Destiny 2 that receives the Accessibility Award. The studio has proven its dedication towards making its games inclusive and accessible. Destiny 2 continues to receive game updates and the studio provides various resources and in-depth documentation. Additionally, it continues to identify and remove obstacles that prevent some from playing games through the ‘Accessibility at Bungie’ initiative.
The 2023 Games for Change Vanguard Award goes to Grace Collins, founder and CEO of LGBTBE-certified game company Snowbright Studio. Snowbright Studio focuses on creating uplifting games and experiences. Collins has promoted diversity and inclusivity through their work at the Smithsonian and the Department of Education. They also founded the first esports team in the U.S. at an all-girls high school.
Streamer DrLupo is receiving the giving award, reserved for organisations or individuals who contribute to community initiatives via donations, scholarships and fundraising. Benjamin ‘DrLupo’ Lupo helps his followers engage with social causes through his Twitch account. DrLupo has raised more than $13 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital over the years through his 24-hour charity stream, Build Against Cancer.
Full award ceremony next month
“The recipients of this year’s Special Awards are nothing short of inspiring,” says the president of Games for Change, Susanna Pollack. “Time and time again, we see the surge of positive outcomes from the games and immersive media spaces, and it continues to become clear that these mediums are more than just a pastime; they are powerful tools that nurture diversity, kindness and inclusivity.”
Each winner is being honoured for their determination and dedication in using video games and media to positively affect society at a ceremony at this year’s Games for Change Festival. The award ceremony – including other categories – occurs at the Times Center in New York City on July 19th at 7 pm EDT.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
