Games for Black Girls
Art direction
2022
Problem:
In the realm of game design, authentic representation and relatability are essential for creating meaningful player experiences. Nerdy Bear Studios sought to develop Games for Black Girls—a game that celebrates Black identity, family heritage, and the magic of personal growth. The challenge was to create a protagonist and story that would resonate deeply with players, offering a relatable journey while capturing the whimsy and wonder of life’s stages.
Solution:
As the Creative Director and Designer, I brought Windy Maven to life—a character embodying charm, strength, and a unique sense of style. Her vibrant blue hair and her mother’s treasured red scarf became symbols of her identity and connection to family heritage. I led the design of captivating character concepts, enchanting key art, and rich design assets, infusing each stage of her life journey with detail and authenticity. My goal was to create a visual narrative that would allow players to see themselves in Windy’s story and to feel the magic woven into every moment.
Impact:
The resulting game experience is one that invites players into a world where magic meets reality and heritage intertwines with self-discovery. Through thoughtful design and empathy-driven creativity, Games for Black Girls has become an enchanting, ongoing project that resonates with players on a personal level. Windy Maven’s journey unfolds as an inspiring tale of growth and empowerment, inviting players to immerse themselves in her story and celebrate the magic within their own lives.
"A heart-warming game for all of the black girls and women who don’t feel seen and heard."
Embark on a thrilling adventure through time with Windy Maven as she navigates the fantastical 80s and the imaginative 90s. In her teen years, Windy discovers the power of self-discovery and the whimsical journey to find her true identity. The weight of her family's mysterious past lingers, as she wonders if the enigmatic disappearance of her mother will ever be unveiled. As a young woman in the 90s, Windy exudes confidence, rocking her Hilfiger-inspired crop and patched jeans with style. Amidst the playful trends of the era, she embraces the challenges of adulthood while embodying the essence of a true Maven lady. Empathy fills the air as she grapples with the pressure of her search for answers about her mother's fate. Her brother Jack's unusual behavior sparks her curiosity, and she sets out on a quest to understand the secrets he holds. Join Windy on this empathetic journey of self-discovery, style, and unraveling mysteries that will leave you captivated by her story.
Windy Maven: A Starry-Eyed Dreamer
As a child, Windy Maven was already a force of wonder and curiosity, striding confidently through her enchanted world with a star-tipped staff nearly as tall as she was. Her vibrant blue hair, adorned with golden crescent moons, reflected her connection to the celestial realms. From a young age, Windy was drawn to the mysteries of the universe, finding magic in the galaxies that sparkled overhead and seeing herself as a guardian of cosmic secrets.
In her imaginative world, Windy embraced the responsibility of her lineage, carrying not only her family’s heritage but also a spirit of boundless exploration. With her trusty overalls and interstellar boots, she was more than just a young girl—she was a pioneer, an adventurer destined to walk among the stars. Around her neck hung a small relic, a memento from her mother, and on her belt dangled charms and tokens that hinted at the many journeys she was yet to embark upon.
Her journey was not simply one of play, but one of self-discovery and empowerment. Windy’s story, even as a child, was one of learning, resilience, and cosmic wisdom. Guided by her staff and the twinkle in her eye, she reminded everyone that magic could be found in the ordinary, and that sometimes, the biggest adventures started right where you stood.
The Cosmic Teen Rebel
As a teenager, Windy Maven transformed into a bold icon of style and defiance, embodying the cosmic energy that had surrounded her since childhood. With her vibrant blue hair now styled in edgy braids, she radiates confidence and independence, embracing the rebellious streak that sets her apart. Her mother’s red scarf is tied around her wrist, a nod to her roots, yet her look is wholly her own—a fusion of celestial themes and retro-futuristic flair that channels her inner warrior.
Windy’s fashion choices tell a story of self-expression and exploration. Her neon-splashed jacket, patterned with stars and galaxies, reflects her ongoing fascination with the cosmos. She pairs it with high-waisted pants and bold accessories that scream both individuality and adventure. Each piece of her outfit is a curated element, symbolizing her journey from an imaginative child to a young woman blazing her own path.
This version of Windy isn’t just about discovery; she’s about action. With her dance moves and fearless attitude, she’s unafraid to stand out, challenge norms, and chart her course. The neon-lit, retro-futuristic background mirrors the world she inhabits—a place where past, present, and future blend, giving her the freedom to create her identity without limits.
Windy Maven’s teenage self is a celebration of resilience, courage, and the determination to shine her own light. She’s a symbol of what it means to carry a legacy forward while unapologetically embracing who you are meant to be.
The Bold Young Adult
In her young adult years, Windy Maven is the embodiment of confidence, maturity, and vibrant individuality, effortlessly blending her love for retro aesthetics with a modern edge. Her iconic blue hair, now styled in voluminous curls adorned with her signature red scarf, stands as a testament to her bold personality and unwavering sense of self. She’s left behind the adolescent rebellion and has embraced a refined, yet playful style that reflects her growth.
Windy’s outfit tells the story of someone who’s grounded yet adventurous. The vintage-inspired cropped sweatshirt and high-waisted, patched joggers capture her love for nostalgic vibes, each patch symbolizing a memory, dream, or piece of her identity. The mix of colors and retro patterns around her mirror her creative spirit and her journey of self-discovery, now more intentional and directed. Her style is an art form, a fusion of past influences and present ambitions.
This version of Windy exudes empowerment. She’s no longer simply exploring; she’s thriving, carrying her family’s legacy and her personal dreams forward. Her presence is magnetic, her stance confident, and her expression unapologetically self-assured. Windy Maven as a young adult is a celebration of authenticity, ambition, and the joy of embracing who she truly is. She’s ready to conquer whatever comes her way, creating her own universe one step at a time.
Crafting the Maven Family Crest: Symbolism and Storytelling
Problem
Windy Maven’s background as part of an upper-class family presented an opportunity to establish her heritage and status visually within Games for Black Girls. To capture the elegance and sophistication associated with her family while rooting her character in a rich, culturally resonant narrative, I needed to create a family crest. This crest had to embody not only the exclusivity of her upbringing but also the intricate values, strengths, and legacy that shaped her identity.
Solution
Drawing inspiration from heraldic traditions, I designed the Maven family crest to reflect both Windy’s aristocratic background and the deeper symbolism that guides her journey. Here’s how each element serves the purpose:
• Cultural Depth: Incorporating elements from celestial imagery, the crest pays homage to themes of wisdom, protection, and mystical connection—qualities that Windy embodies. The use of the moon and the star symbolizes intuition and guidance, reinforcing Windy’s role as a guide in her journey and in the lives of players engaging with her story.
• Personal Heritage: The design integrates symbols like a crown and a central lotus, which signify growth, purity, and royalty. The crown acknowledges Windy’s elevated social standing, while the lotus speaks to inner strength and rebirth, aligning with the themes of self-discovery in Games for Black Girls.
• Family Legacy: The skull and intricate patterning around the lotus connect to ancestral wisdom and protection, suggesting that the Maven family lineage is both venerable and watchful. This element subtly implies that Windy is upheld by a history of resilience and tradition, bridging her personal journey with her familial expectations.
• Balance of Tradition and Modernity: By combining a classic, heraldic style with contemporary vector art techniques, I was able to make the crest resonate with both historical gravitas and modern design sensibilities. The result is an emblem that fits seamlessly into a fantasy setting while still feeling relevant and visually captivating.
Through these thoughtful design choices, the Maven family crest doesn’t just signify Windy’s heritage—it invites players to explore the intricate world of Games for Black Girls with a rich narrative foundation that connects the past, present, and future of her character’s legacy. This piece serves as both a cultural touchstone and a visual anchor for Windy’s story, enhancing the game’s depth and fostering a sense of connection between players and her journey.
