Her Day
critical tools for feminist game design, interactive storytelling, and social critique
Yixin (Ethan) Zhang
Project Description
We always wake up to the sound of an alarm, stepping into a world where the rules have long been set. These rules are often unspoken, woven in the words and expectations that shape our days. When faced with words that offend and constrain, will you choose to break them or endure in silence?
Her Day is a VR game that, through fragmented moments of daily life, immerses players in the lived experiences of women facing societal and familial expectations. This project critically examines the systemic constraints placed on women, highlighting the microaggressions and institutionalized discrimination embedded in daily life. By engaging players in these fragmented encounters through an embodied VR experience, Her Day fosters empathy, prompting reflection on the gendered power dynamics that shape social interactions. This research situates itself within the broader field of Digital Futures, exploring how emerging technologies—specifically VR—can be leveraged as critical tools for feminist game design, interactive storytelling, and social critique.
BIO
Yixin (Ethan) Zhang is a feminist game designer and 3D environment artist with experience in teaching game design and development. She has independently developed multiple game projects, aiming to create immersive and thought-provoking interactive experiences. Currently, her work focuses on virtual reality (VR) games, exploring their potential as a critical medium for engaging with social issues. Her research spans gender equality, interactive narratives, and immersive experiences, aiming to foster empathy and encourage critical reflection on social structures and cultural norms through gameplay. While her work often critically examines societal structures, she ultimately hopes to design games that not only inspire reflection but also bring joy to players.