That Dragon, Cancer (2016)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

That Dragon, Cancer: A Journey of Love, Loss, and the Power of Video Games

That Dragon, Cancer is an immersive, narrative video game that retells the story of Joel Green, a young boy who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer at the age of one. The game was developed by Joel’s father, Ryan Green, as a way to process his son’s illness and to share their story with the world.

The game is not a traditional video game in the sense that there are no levels to beat or enemies to defeat. Instead, it is a poetic, imaginative journey through Joel’s life, from his diagnosis to his death. Players explore a series of dreamlike environments, each of which represents a different stage of Joel’s journey.

Along the way, players interact with Joel’s family and friends, and they learn about the challenges and triumphs that they faced. The game is full of beautiful moments, but it is also heartbreaking at times. Joel’s story is a reminder of the fragility of life, and it is a testament to the power of love and family.

That Dragon, Cancer has been praised for its innovative storytelling and its emotional impact. It has won numerous awards, including the Game of the Year award from the Independent Games Festival. The game has also been used as a teaching tool in schools and hospitals, and it has helped to raise awareness of childhood cancer.

Gameplay

That Dragon, Cancer is played from a first-person perspective. Players explore a series of dreamlike environments, each of which represents a different stage of Joel’s journey. Along the way, players interact with Joel’s family and friends, and they learn about the challenges and triumphs that they faced.

The game is not a traditional video game in the sense that there are no levels to beat or enemies to defeat. Instead, it is a narrative experience that is designed to evoke emotions and to tell a story. The gameplay is simple and intuitive, and it is accessible to players of all ages.

Story

That Dragon, Cancer tells the story of Joel Green, a young boy who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer at the age of one. The game follows Joel’s journey from his diagnosis to his death, and it explores the challenges and triumphs that his family and friends faced along the way.

The game is not a linear narrative. Instead, it is a series of vignettes that are connected by themes and emotions. Players are free to explore the game at their own pace, and they can choose to focus on the aspects of Joel’s story that are most meaningful to them.

Themes

That Dragon, Cancer explores a number of themes, including:

  • Love and family: The game is a testament to the power of love and family. Joel’s family and friends never gave up on him, and they were always there for him during his illness.
  • Loss and grief: The game also deals with the themes of loss and grief. Joel’s death is a devastating blow to his family and friends, and the game explores the different ways that they cope with their loss.
  • Faith and hope: The game also explores the themes of faith and hope. Joel’s family and friends never lost hope, even when things were at their darkest. They believed that Joel would be healed, and they continued to pray for him until the end.

Impact

That Dragon, Cancer has had a profound impact on players around the world. The game has been praised for its innovative storytelling and its emotional impact. It has won numerous awards, including the Game of the Year award from the Independent Games Festival. The game has also been used as a teaching tool in schools and hospitals, and it has helped to raise awareness of childhood cancer.

Legacy

That Dragon, Cancer is a groundbreaking video game that has changed the way that we think about video games. The game is a powerful and moving experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing it. It is a must-play for anyone interested in the potential of video games to tell emotional stories.

Call to action

If you are interested in learning more about That Dragon, Cancer, I encourage you to visit the game’s website or to watch the documentary film about the game. You can also donate to the Green family’s foundation, which supports families affected by childhood cancer.

Review Score

9.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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