Ben Gelinas, a former crime reporter, is the creator of the video game “Times and Galaxy.” Set for release on June 21, the game follows the player as a robo-intern for the eponymous publication, “the solar system’s most trusted holopaper.” Gelinas’ background in journalism influenced the development of the game, which he hopes will be both interesting and fun. After feeling burnt out as a crime reporter, Gelinas took a break by writing arts stories but missed the excitement of breaking news. He eventually left journalism for a temporary contract in the video game industry with BioWare, where he applied his storytelling skills to help develop the lore for the “Dragon Age” series.
Gelinas’ journalism experience proved to be an asset in game development, as he brought fresh ideas and perspectives. Although he initially felt like an impostor in his new career, Gelinas eventually found success in the industry. After his wife got a job in Toronto, he left BioWare to move east and further expand his skill set beyond writing and editing. Gelinas connected with the local indie developer community and created “Speed Dating for Ghosts,” a game characterized as a wholesome horror experience. He also worked on various contract projects, including writing for games such as “Control” and “Gotham Knights.”
Upon returning to Edmonton, Gelinas started working on “Times and Galaxy,” his first major project with his studio, Copychaser Games. The game is a comedy adventure that features Reporterbot as the player character, who is sent out to cover various stories in a futuristic setting. The game serves as a satirical take on journalism, where players must interview witnesses, officials, and experts to gather information and write a story. Gelinas aimed to capture the challenges faced by reporters in collecting accurate information and crafting engaging stories. The game includes quirky elements such as intersolar cat shows and space ghost funerals.
“Times and Galaxy” took years to develop with the help of a team of creatives that Gelinas had met over the years. The game features 2D characters in 3D environments, similar to the style of Nintendo’s “Paper Mario” series. Gelinas wanted to create a game that reflected his love for journalism and storytelling, incorporating elements of alien encounters and futuristic technologies. Despite his nostalgia for his journalism days, Gelinas is now fully immersed in game development and enjoys the creativity and collaboration involved in the process. Through “Times and Galaxy,” Gelinas hopes to provide players with a glimpse of the complexities and rewards of journalism through an entertaining and engaging gaming experience.
Overall, Gelinas’ transition from journalism to game development highlights the unique blend of skills and perspectives that can be brought from one industry to another. His experiences in both fields have shaped his approach to storytelling and creativity, resulting in innovative projects like “Times and Galaxy.” As the game prepares for its release, Gelinas remains grateful for the opportunities that have allowed him to express his passion for journalism and gaming. Through his work, Gelinas continues to explore the intersection of storytelling, technology, and creativity, creating immersive experiences that entertain and inspire players around the world.
