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Topic

Roll For Perception: Games as a Site of Decolonization and Social Change

Department of Geography

Date & location

• Friday, September 5, 2025

• 12:15 P.M.

• David Turpin Building

• Room B215

Reviewers

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Reuben Rose-Redwood, Department of Geography, University of Victoria (Supervisor)

• Prof. Teresa Dawson, Department of Geography, UVic (Member)

• Dr. CindyAnn Rose-Redwood, Department of Geography, UVic (Member) 

External Examiner

• Dr. Jentery Sayers, Department of English, UVic

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Darcy Mathews, School of Environmental Studies, UVic 

Abstract

Both tabletop and video games have immense potential as a tool for decolonization, education, and social change. They can be a highly engaging form of learning that allow players to deeply understand and connect with the games message or story, especially with complex and difficult subjects such as decolonization. They can create space and community for marginalized peoples (i.e. BIPOC, LGBTQ2+) and enable them to express themselves and tell their stories. This study explores how games created by or in collaboration with Indigenous and other marginalized peoples can challenge colonial values and binaries. Grounded in cultivation theory, which examines the lasting effects of media, the study draws upon semi-structured interviews with members of local Victoria, BC gaming community, the Galleon Gaming Society, as well as online game reviews and statements to explore the game-player relationship and how players interact within and around the game space. Looking at the role games play in decolonization efforts will help unravel colonial structures within today’s games and make gaming a more inclusive and enriching experience.