Biography:
Tanya X. Short is an American video game designer known for her influential work in the industry. As a co-founder of Kitfox Games, an independent video game studio based in Montreal, Canada, Short has made significant contributions to the world of gaming. She has been involved in the development of several notable titles, including Shattered Planet (2014) and Moon Hunters (2016).
Short’s passion for video games can be traced back to her early years. Raised in California, United States, she grew up in a home located in the middle of the desert. Due to the lack of children her age nearby, she often found solace and entertainment in video games. Her mother, who disapproved of passive forms of entertainment like television, recognized the interactive and stimulating nature of gaming, leading her to purchase a Nintendo Entertainment System for the family.
During her teenage years, Short’s love for gaming flourished, and she began to connect with people from all over through massively multiplayer online (MMO) games. These experiences solidified her desire to work in the video game industry, specifically as a writer. She started volunteering as a community manager and content designer for an online game, a role that fueled her passion and ambition.
To pursue her dreams, Short enrolled in college in Portland, Oregon, where she studied English literature. After completing her undergraduate degree, she sought further education in video game design and applied to the master’s degree program at SMU Guildhall in Texas. In 2008, she successfully graduated from Guildhall, receiving offers from multiple video game companies.
Opting to work for Norwegian developer Funcom, Short began her career as a narrative designer, designing levels and boss fights for massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs). Her talent and dedication soon led her to Montreal, Canada, as her employer recognized the region’s favorable tax subsidies for the gaming industry. Despite not speaking French, Short actively participated in the Montreal Gaming Society, successfully integrating into the local gaming community.
In 2012, Short co-founded Pixelles, a non-profit organization striving to increase gender diversity and representation in video game development. Pixelles organized free events and workshops to mentor and educate women, non-binary individuals, transgender people, and others from marginalized groups. Through this initiative, Short strongly advocated for inclusivity and equal opportunities within the gaming industry.
Following the closure of Funcom’s Montreal activities in 2013, Short found herself unemployed but undeterred. She, along with three other individuals, founded Kitfox Games. The studio’s first project, Shattered Planet, released in 2014, showcased Short’s talents as a lead designer. With its success, Kitfox Games established itself as a major player in the industry.
However, it was Moon Hunters (2016) that truly showcased Short’s innovative and visionary approach to game design. As the lead designer, she aimed to create a game that utilized procedural generation to generate personalized narratives for players. This unique concept earned critical acclaim and further solidified Short’s position as a trailblazer in the gaming industry.
Short is renowned for her dedication to inclusivity, a core value infused into Kitfox Games’ projects. She recognizes the importance of creating diverse and representative characters and narratives, ensuring that players from all backgrounds can see themselves reflected in the games they enjoy.
As a female video game designer, Tanya X. Short has overcome challenges and barriers within a predominantly male industry. Her achievements have not only shaped the gaming landscape but have also inspired and opened doors for aspiring women in game development. Her dedication to gender diversity and inclusivity has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, making her an important figure in women’s history.
Awards:
– [List any official awards or recognitions received by Tanya X. Short here]