Innovative Game Helps Families Navigate the Journey of Cancer

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For many, today might seem like just another Tuesday, but for one father, it marks a significant milestone. On what would have been his son’s seventh birthday, video game developer Max Thompson celebrates the launch of his new game, That Dragon, Cancer, which poignantly explores how his family faced their son’s cancer diagnosis.

Max’s son, Leo, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain tumor shortly after his first birthday in 2011. Tragically, Leo passed away in 2015, and in the wake of this heartbreaking loss, Max transformed those four challenging years into a video game aimed at honoring his son and fostering a new dialogue around the grief associated with terminal illness.

According to reports, the game unfolds over two hours, guiding players through the emotional journey of a family grappling with cancer. Players sometimes take control, such as maneuvering a go-kart through hospital corridors or guiding a young Leo, depicted as floating with balloons made from surgical gloves, through obstacles symbolizing his illness. At other times, players observe the family’s emotional struggles, providing a profound sense of connection to their experience.

Max began collaborating with fellow developer Lisa Rivera about a year and a half before Leo’s death, and their project even inspired a documentary titled Thank You For Playing, which is set to premiere this spring. Since losing Leo, Max has dedicated countless hours—often working 80 to 90-hour weeks—to ensure the game is ready for release. He has already received heartwarming feedback from those who have been moved by his work.

When asked about his hopes for the game, Max expressed his desire for it to inspire change: “I hope that people allow it to change them. By inviting you into our journey, it allows you to share not just in our pain but also in our moments of comfort. I believe this can lead to a profound shift in how we interact and support one another.”

While That Dragon, Cancer addresses deeply emotional themes, it has been described by early reviewers as a source of hope rather than sadness. One reviewer noted that playing the game prompted thoughts of loved ones, emphasizing its uplifting messages.

Max has found an extraordinary way to honor Leo’s life, opening up a much-needed conversation about loss and illness. This game transcends the traditional boundaries of video gaming and showcases how personal experiences can be transformed into something deeply meaningful. It stands as a testament to the healing power of creativity and connection, offering comfort to those who share similar experiences.

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In summary, Max Thompson’s That Dragon, Cancer is a groundbreaking video game that captures the emotional journey of a family facing a cancer diagnosis. By sharing his story through this innovative medium, he hopes to inspire empathy and foster discussions about grief and loss.