Puzzle Adventure about mental health and self-help
Hi Serious Play Award Jury ✋
My name is Helena, and I’m a co-founder of an indie Gamedev Studio called Pomsky Games. We make games with social purpose.
We’d like to apply for the International Serious Play Award this year with our title that is currently in progress, called The Light Within.
Playable Build
Although the game is still in development and is aimed to be released in January'2026, we have a vertical slice ready to playtest. Please, do us the honour!
The Light Within is a premium game that is aimed to be published on App Store and Google Play, followed by Steam, Nintendo Switch and Playstation.
Narrative-Driven Puzzle Adventure
Engaging storytelling combined with interactive dioramas and non-violent puzzle-solving.
Mental Health Focus
Incorporates real-world mental health techniques and tools for improving well-being.
Diverse Representation
Features a biracial protagonist and queer characters, promoting inclusivity and representation.
Empathy Development
Strong narrative aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and connection through compelling character interactions and mental health themes.
EDUCATION COMPONENT
The Light Within stands as a pioneering example of how video games can go beyond entertainment to offer meaningful experiences that impact players' real lives.
Well-being
The game uniquely integrates real-world mental health techniques such as self-compassion and mindfulness directly into its narrative and puzzle-solving mechanics. This approach not only entertains but also educates players, providing them with practical tools for mental well-being in an engaging and non-didactic manner.
Inclusivity
With a biracial, queer protagonist and a cast of characters dealing with various mental health challenges, the game pushes the boundaries of inclusivity and representation in the gaming industry. It offers players from underrepresented groups the opportunity to see themselves reflected in a meaningful and authentic way.
Immersion
Drawing inspiration from critically acclaimed titles like Monument Valley and The Almost Gone, The Light Within features intricate, stylized environments that not only captivate players visually but also serve as metaphors for the protagonist’s internal struggles. Each level is meticulously designed to reflect the mental health challenges faced by the characters, deepening the narrative experience.
Empathy
The game is designed to foster empathy through its strong, character-driven storylines. Players engage with complex, relatable characters, each embodying different mental health challenges, encouraging a deeper understanding and connection that extends beyond the screen.
Innovation
Through its innovative blend of narrative, gameplay, and educational elements, The Light Within is not just a game — it’s an interactive tool for mental health awareness and personal growth, making it a significant advancement in the gaming industry.