What future scenarios does the climate game present?

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The climate game, Survive the Century, presents a future scenario in the year 2050 characterized by a warming planet, reliance on nutritional food packs for meals, and the widespread emergence of dozens of new zoonotic viruses.

The online game Survive the Century allows players to navigate a projected future from 2021 to 2100, encountering various challenging situations. Developed by an international collaboration of scientists, economists, and writers coordinated by the US-based National Socio-Environmental Synthesis Centre (SESYNC), the game employs humour and interactive decision-making to stimulate thought about climate change and individual agency. It aims to engage players, particularly younger generations concerned about climate inaction, by illustrating that the future remains open to numerous choices.
Interactive Decision-Making Scenarios

The game presents players with science-based decision-making scenarios that require them to make choices with significant consequences. For instance, one scenario places players in the role of a newspaper editor in 2050, tasked with shaping public opinion amidst a warming planet, a diet of nutritional food packs, and a surge in zoonotic viruses. Other scenarios involve critical decisions such as the rollout of vaccines or the allocation of funds for technological innovations, where choices can either lead to the restoration of order or the descent into anarchy.
Addressing Climate Anxiety and Nihilism

Survive the Century was specifically designed to combat climate nihilism and anxiety, which are increasingly prevalent among young people who feel overwhelmed by the scale of the climate crisis and perceive a lack of action from authorities. The creators, including author and game creator Samantha Beckbessinger, intended to foster a sense of hopefulness by demonstrating that the future is malleable and that individual choices can still influence outcomes. This approach moves beyond the common narratives of personal sacrifice, such as reducing meat consumption or air travel, to place players in more impactful decision-making roles.
Educational Potential and Broader Engagement

The creators envision the game as a powerful, non-didactic tool for public engagement, allowing players to explore complex issues through play rather than being lectured. By providing an interactive experience, the game encourages exploration and understanding of the multifaceted nature of climate change and its potential futures. The project leaders, including environmental scientist Christopher Trisos and associate professor Simon Nicholson, emphasize that the future is shaped by human choices, making the game a relevant tool for educational institutions. High schools and universities have already expressed interest in integrating Survive the Century into their curricula. Upon completion, the game also directs players to local climate organizations, further encouraging real-world engagement.

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What future scenarios does the climate game present?

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