In an ordinary Tuesday for many, Dr. Michael Brooks marks a poignant moment in his life. Today, coinciding with what would have been his son’s seventh birthday, the video game designer celebrates the launch of a groundbreaking game titled That Dragon, Cancer, which reflects the family’s journey through their son’s cancer battle.
Dr. Brooks’s son, Charlie, was diagnosed with a severe brain tumor just after his first birthday in 2010. Sadly, he passed away in March 2014. Determined to honor his son’s memory, Dr. Brooks transformed the profound struggles of those four years into a video game intended not only to commemorate Charlie but also to shift the conversation surrounding terminal illness and grief.
As reported by the Washington Post, the game presents a two-hour interactive narrative that immerses players in the experiences of a family grappling with cancer. At times, players control actions, such as steering a go-cart through hospital corridors or guiding a small Charlie, buoyed by balloons crafted from surgical gloves, through challenges representing his illness. Other moments invite players to witness the emotional rollercoaster the family endures.
Dr. Brooks began developing the game with co-creator Lisa Carter about a year and a half before Charlie’s passing. Their endeavors have been documented in Thank You For Playing, a film set to premiere this spring. Since Charlie’s death, Dr. Brooks has dedicated extensive hours—often 80 to 90 per week—to finalize the game. He has received heartfelt responses from individuals profoundly affected by his work. When asked what he wishes to achieve with the game, Dr. Brooks expressed a desire for it to inspire change:
“I hope that people allow it to change them. By inviting you into our journey, we can share our pain and our comfort. It’s all about fostering empathy and understanding,” he explained. “Charlie’s story can ripple out and transform how we relate to each other.”
Although That Dragon, Cancer delves into heavy themes, early reviews—like one from gaming blog Kotaku—highlight its underlying message of hope. Reviewer Sam Reed noted, “When I played That Dragon, Cancer, I thought about those I cherish.”
Dr. Brooks has discovered a unique and powerful means to celebrate Charlie’s life, opening up a candid dialogue about loss and illness through the medium of video gaming. This heartfelt project transcends traditional gaming narratives, offering solace and healing to countless individuals. It stands as a testament to love and remembrance, a fitting tribute to Charlie’s legacy.
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In summary, Dr. Michael Brooks has channeled his grief into an innovative video game that not only honors his late son but also aims to transform the way families cope with cancer diagnoses. Through interactive storytelling, That Dragon, Cancer provides a unique perspective on love, loss, and hope.