Transforming Tragedy: Parkland Parents Develop Impactful School Shooting Survival Game

In the aftermath of the devastating Parkland school shooting, the parents of victim Joaquin Oliver have channeled their grief into a powerful new initiative – a video game designed to educate and empower students on how to survive such a horrific event. "The Final Exam" aims to not only raise awareness but also advocate for legislative changes that could prevent future tragedies.

Empowering Students, Inspiring Change

Confronting the Unthinkable

The game's creators, Joaquin's parents Manuel and Patricia Oliver, have faced unimaginable loss. Yet, they have chosen to transform their pain into purpose, using "The Final Exam" as a platform to address the ongoing crisis of school shootings in America. The game immerses players in the sights and sounds of a school shooting, providing a visceral and unsettling experience. However, this is not merely a simulation for shock value; it is a tool to educate and empower students, equipping them with the knowledge and strategies to increase their chances of survival.

Bridging the Gap Between Awareness and Action

The game's unique approach lies in its integration of educational content. As players navigate the virtual chaos, they will encounter information about specific legislative measures that could help prevent future tragedies. These include the assault weapons ban, secure storage laws (also known as Ethan's Law), restrictions on high-capacity magazines, universal background checks, and raising the minimum age to purchase firearms. By seamlessly weaving this critical information into the gameplay, "The Final Exam" aims to bridge the gap between awareness and action, inspiring players to become informed advocates for change.

Addressing Concerns and Seeking Constructive Dialogue

Not all parents are convinced that this approach is the best way to address the issue of school shootings. Broward County School Board member Lori Alhadeff, who also lost her daughter Alyssa in the Parkland massacre, expresses concerns about the potential for the game to cause further trauma for students. She believes the focus should be on directly engaging with legislators who have the power to enact meaningful reforms.The Olivers acknowledge these concerns and are open to constructive dialogue. They emphasize that the root of the problem lies in the easy access to guns, not in the games themselves. Their goal is to empower young people to become informed and engaged citizens, ultimately driving the change that lawmakers have thus far failed to deliver.

Honoring Victims, Preventing Future Tragedies

The Parkland shooting remains the deadliest school shooting in U.S. history, claiming the lives of 14 students and 3 staff members. For the Olivers, "The Final Exam" is not just a game – it is a tribute to their son Joaquin and a call to action to prevent such tragedies from ever happening again. By educating and empowering the next generation, they hope to transform the narrative and create a future where no parent has to endure the unimaginable loss they have experienced.