Let's dive into the fascinating world of video game preservation and the unique gaming scene of Nova Scotia. I'm here to share my thoughts and insights on a man with a mission: Adam Hartling, a passionate advocate for archiving and celebrating the province's interactive digital history.
The Passionate Archivist
Adam Hartling, a business operations analyst by day, has a deep-rooted passion for video games, especially those with a Nova Scotian twist. His dedication to preserving the local gaming industry's legacy is admirable. With the recent closure of Ubisoft's Halifax studio, leaving a void in the local market, Hartling's efforts to boost independent game development couldn't be timelier.
A Journey Through Nova Scotia's Gaming History
Nova Scotia's gaming history, as Hartling breaks it down, spans three distinct eras. From the pre-HB Studios days, where companies like Simulations Canada dabbled in tabletop wargames and home computer games, to the emergence of HB Studios and the media tax credit, which attracted various studios to Halifax. The 'indie era' that followed saw a surge in independent game development, with a rich history that often goes unnoticed.
Preserving Digital Art
Video game preservation is a critical issue, akin to the preservation of silent films. Hartling's concern for the disappearing web-based games, especially those created during game jams, is valid. These games, he believes, are akin to folk art and should be preserved as such. The challenge of digital rot and the discontinuation of services like Dropbox's webpage hosting function highlight the fragility of digital art.
Celebrating Regional Culture
Hartling's website, the Halifax Game Collective Archive, features a dedicated page for games that celebrate regional culture. Games like Clarevoyance, developed by Chad Comeau, immerse players in Acadian history and culture. Green Robot's Kun'tewiktuk: A Mi'kmaw Adventure brings Mi'kmaw mythology to life, while the Pirate GPS app offers an interactive journey through pirate lore and mythology. Even local rock band Motorleague got in on the action with an RPG about Atlantic Canada, complete with garlic fingers as enemies!
The Halifax Style
When asked about a distinct Halifax or Nova Scotia style in game development, Hartling admits there isn't a clear theme or vibe. However, he highlights the diversity of creators and their unique approaches, from professional sports games to indie gems infused with local folklore.
Representing Canada in Games
The conversation around representing Canada in games is an intriguing one. Hartling discusses the challenge of making games marketable to a broader audience, especially in the context of the recent Canadian Game Awards, where the winning game, South of Midnight, is set in the American South. He believes there's a perception that Canadian themes might not be as appealing to a wider market, but he personally rejects this notion.
The Local Game Development Scene
The local game development scene in Nova Scotia is vibrant, with enthusiastic creators and talented individuals. However, recent layoffs and the closure of the video game development course at NSCC have cast a shadow over the industry. Hartling sees an opportunity in the closure of Ubisoft's studio, as it has freed up talented individuals to pursue their own projects and potentially keep them in the province.
A Love for Games and Exploration
Hartling's love for games began with a TRS-80 computer at his cousin's house. He found solace and a sense of exploration in gaming, especially growing up in a rural area with limited access to sports and the internet. Games offered him a way to escape and participate in fantastical worlds, a feeling that drew him in and kept him hooked.
In conclusion, Hartling's passion for preserving Nova Scotia's video game history is a testament to the power of gaming as an art form and a cultural expression. His efforts to archive and document the province's interactive digital history are a valuable contribution to the gaming community and a reminder of the importance of preserving our digital heritage.
