I’m a 22-year-old working part-time as a bartender, and my dream is to become a game designer once I enter university. However, my stepfather and mother have consistently questioned me about my plans for the past four years, always asking, “What is your plan?” Every time, I confidently respond that I want to be a game designer. Unfortunately, this career choice seems foreign and unfamiliar to them.
When my stepfather inquired about job opportunities and salary prospects in the field, I explained that there are game design opportunities in Norway, but the income can vary depending on the success of the game. I also mentioned the various local organizations and government initiatives that provide financial support to game creators and their projects.
My stepfather is a practical man who excels in mathematics and works as the sole proprietor of a car company, earning a substantial income. Both my mother and stepfather have made it evident through their expressions and body language that they would prefer I choose a different career path, one they perceive as more stable and promising for my future.
Even my biological father isn’t particularly enthusiastic about my game design aspirations. A few weeks ago, my mother muttered under her breath, “You can’t make a living out of that…”
Every time they discuss my future, I remain steadfast in my decision to pursue game design. However, their lack of support has taken a toll on me emotionally. I have cried and even experienced panic attacks, feeling disheartened and hurt that the people who have cared for me and brought me into this world are not fully supporting my dreams. It’s a difficult and painful realization to come to terms with.
The only ones who truly support me are my friends and stepmother. While she has always been kind, she is now quickly becoming my favorite person in terms of support and encouragement.
I have already worked on three small games as part of Norwegian school projects, and I have completed one of them. I’ve dabbled in pixel art and created several sprite sheets. My parents even bought me an iPad specifically for me to learn how to draw.
Currently, I am working on a role-playing game similar to Pathfinder and Dungeons & Dragons. However, it’s disheartening for me when I read stories where parents unconditionally support their children’s dreams, and I long for that kind of support from my own parents.
