Fredericton Faculty of Arts

Chad Comeau, Culture and Media Studies, Media Artist in Residence

Where are you from?

"I'm from an Acadian village in southwest Nova-Scotia, but I've been in New Brunswick for 7 years, and in Fredericton for three."

Tell us a bit about your creative interests.

"I am mainly interested in the expressive potential of digital games. I like creating games about certain realities or communities (Acadian games, LGBTQ+ game, stuttering game) that leverage the unique properties of interactive games to create their meaning."

What projects are you working on right now?

"I recently helped organize the New Brunswick Game Jam.

About 45 people participated in the 24hour event held Nov. 18 to Nov. 19th and created 14 original games. Check out the Game Jam entries here: https://itch.io/jam/nbgamejam/entries

I am also working on a game project during my residency: Granny Games. This series of games explores how digital games can serve as souvenirs or memorials. First game of the series can be played here (https://fringfrang.itch.io/granny-games-margie). In addition to these two UNB projects, 

In addition to these two UNB projects, I recently presented a new game at Nocturne, a Halifax art festival, this past October and I am working with the Nova-Scotia Acadian school board on a province-wide project involving the participation of students in 22 schools.

Got any quirky trivia about yourself that you're willing to share?

"Uhh I make lots of puns I guess? My translation background made me see connections between words all the time. I even have an actual certificate on my wall for my puns."

What advice do you have for students interested in media arts and aspiring game designers?

"I would say that if students are interested in making games, start making them as soon as you can. You have to churn out a few practice projects before becoming familiar with tools and learning how to design well. So, even if your early games aren't perfect, that's normal. Just keep creating and you'll learn new skills and grow as a designer with each game."

What kind of help can you offer to students and colleagues?

I can discuss anything relating to games, help with brainstorming for ideas, and give feedback on project prototypes.

Get in touch with Chad by email ccomeau2@unb.ca!