Corey Dean, a fourth year Digital Futures student at OCAD University

Ever wished you could hang out again with a loved one who has passed away? Listen to and experience a grandparent’s stories?

Corey Dean, a fourth year Digital Futures student at OCAD University, has created “Faded Memories,” a personal video game based on his grandfather’s memories.

Corey’s grandfathers both suffered from Alzheimer’s disease and later in life, didn’t remember who he was. In Corey’s game, he can interact with his grandfather again – each game level features a story from his grandfather’s life. The user can play through the memory and experience it as Corey’s grandfather. For example, one level features Corey’s grandfather’s childhood memory of his friend falling through the ice and dying.

“Hopefully this game will help people who experienced something like this to open a dialogue,” says Corey. “Because, I know I didn’t talk about my feelings even though it affected me so much.”

“Faded Memories” is in alpha build mode and Corey hopes to release it online when it’s finished. The game is Corey’s fourth-year Digital Futures thesis and you can follow along with his progress on his website.

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