What's Happening?
The game 'Consume Me' provides a semi-autobiographical look into co-creator Jenny Jiao Hsia's adolescent years, focusing on the pervasive influence of diet culture. The game portrays Jenny's life as a series of minigames within a management simulation, where food is represented as puzzle pieces with calorie counts, and exercise is used to manage calorie intake. The narrative highlights the challenges of maintaining an unattainable lifestyle, reflecting the self-deprecation and societal pressures associated with dieting. The game is noted for its engaging minigames and witty dialogue, despite its critique of the unrealistic expectations placed on individuals by diet culture.
Why It's Important?
The game 'Consume Me' sheds light on the often overlooked psychological and societal impacts of diet culture, particularly on young individuals. By simulating the pressures and unrealistic standards associated with dieting, the game encourages players to reflect on their own experiences and the broader implications of societal norms regarding body image and health. This exploration is significant as it contributes to ongoing discussions about mental health, self-esteem, and the need for more inclusive and realistic representations of health and wellness in media.
