Shape Yourself

This game is a tongue-in-cheek fight against the gender dysphoria I didn’t realize I’ve been carrying in me for nearly a decade and half now. It's a love letter to my transness, reminding myself that no matter how much I doubt my identity in my deepest pits, I’ll never not be trans. It's me holding onto the hope and willpower to shape myself into a happier life. It's me telling myself that no matter how many tries it takes to feel right, I will feel joy looking at my body in the mirror one day.

I’ve also been in a major creative block for the past two years, making anything for and by myself has felt increasingly hopeless in a world that not only condones but also supports genocide and facism. The little I have been able to push myself to make either burns me out or feels unsatisfactory in less than a day. I have to keep telling myself that there is meaning for me to exist creatively and find solace in what I love to make. If you have been in a similar position to me at all, I encourage you to give space to yourself to embrace creation. In these hostile times, it’s even more important than ever to make art where you and your ideologies are Seen.

This is a simple game, with a simple way to conclude. Gameplay ends when you’re happy with what you’ve made. There is no end to how many times you remake your body. Create, recreate, and discover what brings you happiness in the process. But also take care of yourself. Remember that it plays off having gender dysphoria that you’re not fully aware of, and exploring those feelings of discomfort. 

Happy Pride.

Credits:
Itch cover image / file cover image is an edited version of this photo by Vikram Pataskar, taken from unsplash.com