For my 7th semester project at Srishti, I was drawn to the issue of sensationalism in media reporting on wildlife conflicts.
After reading countless headlines portraying leopards as dangerous intruders in urban spaces, I was compelled to explore how these narratives fuel fear while ignoring the underlying causes—habitat destruction, urbanization, and human-wildlife coexistence.
This led to Beyond Headlines, a visual novel where players step into the role of a young journalist navigating ethical dilemmas in reporting. Inspired by real-life incidents, the game challenges players to balance sensationalism with truth, uncovering the deeper stories behind the headlines.
PREMISE
Research
For Beyond Headlines, I sought to explore the role of media sensationalism in shaping narratives about human-wildlife conflict. To build a grounded and impactful experience, I researched several interconnected themes, summarized here:
Wildlife Conflicts
I studied real-life cases of leopard sightings in urban India, focusing on how habitat destruction, urban sprawl, and prey scarcity force leopards into human spaces, often escalating conflicts.
Media Sensationalism
Drawing from articles and interviews, I examined the portrayal of wildlife conflicts in Indian media. Headlines often use fear-driven language, neglecting ecological nuance, and influencing public perception and policy.
Culture & Folklore
I explored myths and cultural practices, such as Waghoba worship by the Warli tribe, which emphasize coexistence and respect for wildlife.
Journalistic Integrity
Interviews with journalists provided insight into the challenges of balancing factual reporting with audience engagement, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by media professionals.
Artistic Influences
The visual identity draws inspiration from Madhubani and Kalighat art styles, blending traditional aesthetics with modern game design to reflect the narrative’s rooted yet contemporary tone.
Application is no longer available.
Research
To read about my full process and research, please read my documentation file!