Due to COVID restrictions a lot of audiovisual productions were put on the back burner last year. During that time, our friends at VAF stimulated the creativity of professionals who found themselves with some time on their hands through the innovation atelier track. In this program creators from various creative sectors were invited to submit ideas for a video game. Selected projects would then get some modest financial backing and, more importantly, coaching to refine their pitch in order to participate in a VAF funding call for preproduction.

To that extent, these storytellers are currently looking for a game studio with matching ambitions, who are eager to embark on a creative journey together. One of the four projects already has found shelter with our proud member Polygoat, but there’s still three fascinating stories that are sure to translate to an intriguing game experience.

Without further ado: on to the pitches!

Pieter Coudyzer – Pilgrim

Short animation film director and graphic novelist Pieter Coudyzer is working on a sidescrolling adventure game that tells the fairytale of a boy that’s so afraid of death, he’s too scared to ever leave the house. Until one day his mother doesn’t leave him a choice.

https://vimeo.com/527229842

Jelle Janssens – The Ocean

With a background in documentary film, Jelle Janssens sets out to create a story based on real events. Playing as a nurse that worked in the biggest field hospital on the Belgian frontline during World War I, you’ll have to face gruesome memories to overcome your survivor’s guilt.

Sine Özbilge & Imge Özbilge – The Curator

Directed by sisters Sine and Imge Özbilge, The Curator challenges players to find a mysterious painting. This story about self-exploration is told from a first-person perspective and lets players discover the beautiful and intriguing world of art from the front row.

https://vimeo.com/530954643

Thanks to the narrative and gameplay expertise of the coaches these pitches are more than just mere ideas. They are projects with a clear vision, thought up by professionals with a track record who show genuine interest and respect for the medium of video games. So if you feel a connection with one of the presented projects, quickly get in touch with VAF so they can introduce you to these incredible creators as soon as possible, before they get snatched up by another studio.