A 2021 graduate from the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), Adanna Nedd has transformed her childhood love for video games into a thriving career. Her work focuses on enhancing representation in gaming, particularly for underrepresented communities. Through scholarships and support programs, she pursued a degree in information sciences and technology while also engaging in research that explores how diverse players express themselves in virtual environments. Since graduation, Nedd has become an influential figure in the gaming industry, sharing her insights at various conferences and working as an independent game writer and narrative designer.

From Passion to Profession: Building a Career in Gaming

Nedd’s journey began with a profound interest in video games during her childhood. This passion led her to enroll in the College of IST, where she was supported by the Millennium Scholars Program, which aids underrepresented students in STEM fields. She actively participated in co-curricular activities that fostered diversity and inclusion. These experiences not only shaped her academic path but also instilled in her a commitment to supporting others. Her research on player representation in online games highlighted the importance of authenticity in virtual worlds, particularly for people of color who often seek to reflect their real-life identities in these spaces.

Through her research, Nedd discovered that players of color tend to invest more resources to create avatars that resemble their true selves. This finding fueled her mission to develop games that better represent gamers from all backgrounds. Her dedication to this cause has earned her recognition in the industry. Since graduating, Nedd has worked on several projects, including KISS U and Recommendation Dog, and has been nominated for prestigious awards. Her latest release, Spirit Swap: Lofi Beats to Match-3 To, showcases her ongoing commitment to creating inclusive gaming experiences. Additionally, she contributes to gaming magazines, further amplifying diverse voices in the field.

Advocating for Inclusion: Breaking Barriers in the Gaming Industry

Nedd’s role extends beyond game development; she is also a prominent advocate for diversity within the industry. Despite facing challenges such as racial bias, she has found invaluable support from organizations like Black in Gaming and Black Girl Games. These platforms have provided her with a community and safe spaces to thrive. Recognizing the historical contributions of Black individuals in gaming, Nedd emphasizes that Black developers have always been integral to the industry. For instance, Jerry Lawson, a Black man, was instrumental in developing one of the first game consoles.

Nedd pays it forward by mentoring women of color in game writing and narrative design. She collaborates with the Black in Gaming Foundation on panels, showcases, and meetups to elevate the visibility of Black developers. Her upcoming presentation at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) will delve deeper into the significance of representation in games. By continuing to speak at conferences and create resources, Nedd ensures that diverse stories find their place in the gaming world. Her work underscores the importance of inclusivity and paves the way for future generations of diverse creators in the industry.