Ruofu Sun, Designer, Programmer
Alice Yu (YANGYU), Game Designer, Writer, Visual Artist, Musician

Sloan Grant(s) Received: 2024, NYU, Game Development Award

Project Type: Videogame

Genre: Puzzle, Make-over

Length: 60 minutes

Field of Science: Biology

Stage: Production

Synopsis: 

“Bloomsome” is a story-driven puzzle game that delves into themes of gender equality, community and sustainability, good health and well-being. In the initial stages, the player takes the role of a “Bloomist” working under the watchful eye of “The Beauty Company.” The task involves shaping the physical forms of flower clients to fit in with the prevailing trends.
However, as the narrative unfolds, Mossy, the flower protagonist, begins to perceive the psychological toll and harmful consequences inflicted by these toxic beauty standards enforced by the company. Collaborating with the player, Mossy finds a way to break free from the confines of the company’s garden, venturing into a new land.
To put the magical shaping crafts into good use, the player no longer needs to force plants to fit in but help the plants to reach their unique best self through various creative shaping methods. The player’s new job also involves arranging a group of plants’ shapes into symbiotic relationships so that resources are equally shared and each plant member can also contribute uniquely its power.
The ultimate narrative goal is to build a sustainable and supportive community where diverse organisms thrive together, defining the concept of natural and diversified beauty.
The narration of the game is conveyed through encountering various plants and organisms, each endowed with fictional personalities. However, all symbiotic combinations and sustainable infrastructures are inspired by scientific facts.