Posted by Robbie McLachlan, Developer Marketing
#WeArePlaying celebrates the inspiring journeys of the people behind apps and games on Google Play. In honor of Pride Month, we’re shining a spotlight on founders who have built tools to empower the LGBTQIA+ community. From dating apps to mental health tools to storytelling platforms, these founders are paving the way for more inclusive technology.
npckc is a game creator from Kanto, Japan whose stories reflect the trans experience
Born in Hong Kong and raised in Canada, npckc is a trilingual translator living in Japan. As a self-taught programmer, they create games with stories and characters often from marginalized communities. One such game is “one night, hot springs“where players follow Haru, a trans woman, as she visits the hot springs. Players have praised the game's realistic depiction of trans experiences and the relaxing music from npckc's partner, sdhizumi. As a finalist at Google Play's Indie Games Festival in Japan, they hope to attend more gaming conventions to connect with other developers in person.
Anshul and Rohan from Mumbai, India have developed a mental health app tailored to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community
After Anshul returned to India from London, he met Rohan and the pair bonded over their mental health struggles. Together they shared a dream; to create something in the wellness space. This became To developan app with guided meditations, breathing exercises, and daily affirmations. When the pandemic hit, the two saw firsthand how underserved the LGBTQIA+ community was when it came to mental health services. For Rohan, who identifies as gay, this realization hit close to home. Together, Anshul and Rohan reimagined Evolve with the specific needs of the LGBTQIA+ community in mind. They built a safe space where users can share their experiences, find mentorship, and build a supportive community.
BáiYù from Indiana, USA, created a platform to publish authentic, queer visual novels and indie games
Queer developer BáiYù is a storyteller who started making games at the age of 16. As part of a game development community, BáiYù wanted an affordable way to distribute their creations. So they founded Project Ensō, which publishes queer visual novels and narrative indie games. With 10 titles on Google Play, BáiYù supports other developers from underrepresented backgrounds to share their own authentic stories on Project Ensōand even polish their games before release. The most popular title on Project Ensō is “Desire: A Gay Story”, in which gamers play a recently outed gay man going through his first year of college. BáiYù’s efforts have had a profound impact on players, with many sharing how the games have positively changed their lives.
Alex and Jake from Nevada, USA have built an inclusive dating app and social community for everyone
Alex and Jake grew up in an environment that was not accepting of the LGBTQIA+ community. They started building apps together after a mutual friend introduced them. When they realized that queer people were looking for a platform that offered support and meaningful connections, they created Time. Taimi isn’t just a dating app for LGBTQIA+ people; it’s also a social network where they can connect, build community, and feel safe. Alex and Jake are also proud to partner with NGOs that provide mental health support to the community.
Discover more stories from app and game makers in #WeArePlaying.
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