BOISE, Idaho — A 14-year-old from Boise who dreamed of becoming a video game designer saw his dream come to life this month. With the help of Make-A-Wish and Boise State University, he created an original video game known as "Gods and Shadows."
Brycen was diagnosed with leukemia in August 2023, and Make-A-Wish Idaho stepped in immediately to make the young boy's dream come true. His prognosis looks positive, but treatment is ongoing, a news release from Make-A-Wish said.
The community also rallied to help develop the video game and bring Brycen’s vision to life. Students from Boise State’s GIMM Lab, under the direction of Anthony Ellertson, along with students from Meridian Technical Charter School, joined forces to turn this dream into a reality.
Make-A-Wish Idaho had never provided a wish like this before Brycen.
According to the press release Brycen's game "Gods and Shadows" follows protagonist, Sven, and his companions who are trying to save a town from a mysterious and powerful force. The game is inspired by "Dungeons and Dragons" and 8-bit style.
Brycen also wished this game to be accessible online to all kids. The game is just a download away for desktops to access. The play time can be anywhere from one to three hours.
"Brycen's wish was one of the most innovative and creative wishes that we've granted this year, and it was only possible due to an outpouring of community support which is always the most magical element of a wish. This game has given Brycen something positive to focus on while he underwent the most difficult phase of his chemotherapy, and we hope that continuing to work on the game and sharing it with his friends helps him on his road to recovery," said Janie Best, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Idaho.
For more information on Make-A-Wish visit their website here.
