S1E3: The Dark Side of #ACNH w/ Dr. Emily Flynn-Jones

What happens when you mash up Animal Crossing: New Horizons with Law & Order: Special Victims Unit? You'll find out in this dark and delightful episode of Tiny Island Diary with Dr. Emily Flynn-Jones, creative director of indie game development firm Killjoy Games.

Inspired by a piece by Gabby DaRienzo, Emily discusses unique ways in which our tiny islands give us space to mourn in this very strange time. But wait, there's more: ACNH is versatile enough to create an entire world of, say... witchcraft. 

Taking ACNH to dark places makes sense when you add up some of the creepy features Nintendo built into the game. From your first invitation to Harv's remote island (he just wants to take your picture, really!) to a Happy Home Academy rep watching you while you sleep, there are lots of clues that, under the surface, ACNH is designed to follow you to whatever weird, wild, fantastical, complex place you want to create in the game. (Lava pit wedding, anyone?)

Emily has found the Animal Crossing channel on the Wholesome Games Discord to be helpful for links, resources, player tips, and artwork inspired by ACNH. 

This episode was recorded on Saturday, August 1, 2020.