New York Game Awards creators on games as tools for education

The New York Video Game Critics Circle is perhaps best-known in the wider industry for being the hosts of the New York Game Awards. However, its founders see the Awards themselves as more than just accolades for game creators — though they are that, too. The NYVGCC have made an effort to incorporate its nonprofit work, specifically its work with students, into the Awards at all levels, and they spoke with GamesBeat about how important this work is to them.

The NYVGCC’s Playing with Purpose Program is its writing program in which it offers writing and journalism classes and workshops to schools and shelters across New York City. Participants connect with industry professionals through these classes, which also offer mentorship opportunities. Paid interns also write reviews and essays via the NY Game Critics website.