Overview
- Discover games handpicked by Indigenous communities.
- Find out about Sienna Gonzales’ creative process for redesigning the Xbox logo for International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.
- Learn how Xbox is modernizing Indigenous storytelling through gaming, reshaping traditional stories for the digital era.
Indigenous cultures around the world are united by the timeless practice of storytelling; a method of preserving knowledge, elucidating the inexplicable, and passing on culture to future generations. While the narratives are as diverse as the storytellers themselves, storytelling serves as a bridge between the past and present, carrying the essence of heritage and tradition through time. Throughout history, storytelling has evolved from ancient oral traditions to printed books, audio recordings, and visual media.
However, the most groundbreaking evolution has been interactive storytelling, which immerses audiences directly into narratives, creating immersive and realistic experiences. In this constantly evolving digital landscape, video games have emerged as a powerful platform for these narratives, offering a medium to share rich cultures that not only entertain but also foster empathy and understanding. Video games breathe new life into ancient tales, ensuring they resonate and inspire globally, uniting communities across borders. It serves as a contemporary solution to the erosion of language and tradition, a digital tonic that ensures the continuity of these traditions today and beyond.
Video games democratize the art of storytelling, making it accessible at the touch of a button. By involving Indigenous creators from the inception, video games have the potential to be a treasure trove of stories that explore the universe, the earth, and the human spirit, captivating the hearts and minds of a new generation. By doing so, the ancient tradition of storytelling is not only preserved but also perpetuated, ensuring its flame burns brightly for generations to come.
Gaming and Social Impact with Rewards
Rewards members in specific countries have the opportunity to earn and donate points to organizations supporting Indigenous communities through Xbox. In the United States, the following organizations will be featured on the Rewards hub:
- AISES: A national nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing Indigenous representation in STEM studies and careers.
- First Nations Development Institute: Committed to advancing Native communities through advocacy, financial assistance, and knowledge sharing.
Xbox players can accumulate Rewards points in various ways, such as playing games, completing Game Pass Quests, and making purchases at the Microsoft Store. Start earning today and redeem your points for exciting rewards. Donate your points on the Rewards hub or the Rewards redeem page.
Explore Games Curated by Indigenous Communities at Microsoft
Throughout history, Indigenous communities have passed down their knowledge through storytelling, art, music, and dance. The contemporary art form of video games is no exception. Dive deeper into Indigenous stories with video games. During August and beyond, delve into a range of game collections encompassing Indigenous creators, characters, and stories inspired by Indigenous cultures worldwide.
Accessible through the Microsoft Store on Xbox and Windows, explore the Indigenous community games collection that will be a permanent fixture as part of ongoing efforts to create more inclusive gaming environments and showcase content that resonates with communities. For Xbox Game Pass members, explore the inaugural Xbox Game Pass Indigenous community collection and PC Game Pass Indigenous community collection.
Discover highlights from the full Game Pass collection on Xbox and the full PC Game Pass collection on Windows:
- Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II (Available with Xbox Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud): Step into Senua’s world, a Celtic warrior who battles psychosis in a journey across 10th century Iceland.
- Tales of Kenzera: ZAU (Available on Console): Embark on Zau’s adventure in this action-platformer set in the fantastical realm of Kenzera, inspired by Bantu tales.
- Skábma – Snowfall (Available on Console): Immerse yourself in Sámi culture with this 3D adventure game inspired by indigenous Sámi stories and beliefs.
Behind the Scenes: Sienna Gonzales’ Xbox Logo Redesign
In honor of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, artist Sienna Gonzales, a Mexican and Chitimachan artist from Louisiana, was commissioned to redesign the Xbox logo. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the artwork were inspired by the lively rhythm of Southern jazz.
The piece features magical plants swaying in humid air, symbolizing the heartbeat of the bayou. At its center stands a sacred cypress, a centuries-old tree vital to the ecosystem, paying tribute to Sienna’s Chitimacha heritage. The image’s frame is a nod to her tribe’s tradition of rivercane basket weaving. Sienna’s creation serves as a poignant reminder of the magic that unfolds when we honor the earth and cherish the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Sienna shares her deep connection to her heritage, emphasizing the importance of nature in preserving her cultural identity. She believes that celebrating days like IDWIP is crucial for recognizing the existence and vibrancy of Indigenous cultures.
Creating art like this allows Sienna to reconnect with her roots and celebrate the unique aspects of her heritage. She encourages other Indigenous individuals to embrace and preserve their cultural elements, enriching not only the present but also the future.
Visit Sienna’s website, Somewhere in June, to explore more of her work.
Xbox Ambassadors
The Xbox Ambassadors Program is honoring International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples by showcasing members of the Xbox Ambassadors community who participated in a recent survey about their gaming experiences. Visit the Xbox Ambassadors blog to read about community members’ favorite gaming moments, recommendations for games featuring Indigenous Peoples, and tips on staying safe while gaming online.
“Recently I was involved in a study, and in that study one of the main characters was of indigenous background and had long hair. It was the first time I’ve seen that and it was amazing to experience that moment.” – KingSludgy
Wallpapers and Dynamic Backgrounds
Experience the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples Xbox design as an Xbox wallpaper or dynamic background on console. Follow these steps to apply the dynamic background:
- Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
- Select Profile & system > Settings > General > Personalization > My background > Dynamic backgrounds.
Choose between Games, Xbox, or Abstract dynamic backgrounds and select the artwork of your choice.