Diversity and inclusion haven’t been the hallmarks of the gaming industry. But that’s changing thanks to advocates like Sheri Graner Ray and open source technologies that allow anyone to develop and showcase their skills.

In this episode of Tales from the 3rd Dimension, Open 3D Foundation (O3DF) Executive Director Royal O’Brien chats with Sheri – an award-winning game designer, author, and consultant – about the trails she has blazed in the gaming industry, the barriers that have been torn down, and how others can forge their own path.

In addition to revealing the Dungeons & Dragons defection that sparked her illustrious career, Sheri explains the impact diversity has on creativity, innovation, and the bottom line. She and Royal discuss the value of ready-made, open source engines for aspiring game developers. And they find insight and irony at the intersection of Barbie and Call of Duty.

GUEST BIO

Founder and CEO of Zombie Cat Studios, Sheri Graner Ray is an award-winning game designer, author, consultant, and speaker. She’s the recipient of an IGDA Game Developer’s Choice Award and has been named one of the top women in games by The Hollywood Reporter and WGEN.