From Gaming Passion to Studio Ownership: A Journey of Perseverance and Change

Introduction:

Every journey begins with a single step, and mine started with a game that would shape my life in ways I couldn't have imagined. In 2001, I stumbled upon Diablo 2 Hardcore, a game that would not only ignite my passion for gaming but also become the foundation of my family's shared love for this immersive world.

A Game that Changed Everything:

It was 2001, and I found myself immersed in the dark and challenging realm of Diablo 2 Hardcore. Little did I know that this game would not only captivate me but also introduce me to my future second husband. As I battled demons and explored vast dungeons, a bond formed between us that would become the cornerstone of our family's gaming adventures.

From Battlefield to Virtual Reality:

My husband had previously worked on Battlefield 1942 at Dice, but he yearned for a change. Little did we know that it would be 12 years before we returned to the gaming industry, and this time, it would be through the exciting realm of virtual reality (VR). Together, we embarked on a new journey, exploring the possibilities of this immersive technology.

Pioneering Swedish VR Gaming:

After years of dedication and hard work, we achieved a significant milestone. In 2016, we proudly released the first Swedish VR game on Steam. The joy and satisfaction of bringing our creation to the market were immeasurable. However, as a woman in the gaming industry, I couldn't help but wonder if my presence would make a difference. While my husband received the recognition, I played a crucial role as a supportive collaborator in the process.

The Long Road to Studio Ownership:

It took another six years of relentless effort before I finally realized my dream of owning my own gaming studio. I saw this achievement as a significant milestone, one that I hoped would bring recognition and pave the way for positive change as a woman in the industry. However, to my surprise, the challenges and biases persisted, serving as a constant reminder that there was still much work to be done. While my journey continued within the realm of VR, it was no longer alongside my husband. The experience of running my own studio came with its share of stress and hard work, especially when it came to managing finances and ensuring the studio's stability.

A Story of Perseverance and Inspiration:

Through every triumph and setback, my journey in the gaming industry has taught me the value of perseverance and the power of inspiration. I have learned that as a woman, my voice and contributions matter, even in an industry still dominated by stereotypes and biases. It is my passion for gaming and the support of my family that fuels my determination to continue pushing boundaries and paving the way for future generations.

Conclusion:

Reflecting upon my journey through the gaming industry, I am awestruck by the profound impact it has had on my life. From that fateful encounter with Diablo 2 Hardcore to standing as the proud owner of my own gaming studio, my story is one of resilience, inspiration, and a relentless pursuit of change.

As my journey progressed, I discovered the boundless possibilities that awaited in the realm of virtual reality. However, the most profound sadness I experienced was the realization that I would no longer embark on this adventure alongside my husband. He had found his own path, joining another bigger gaming studio, while I ventured into uncharted territories and crafted captivating experiences on my own. It was a bittersweet realization, reminding me of the unexpected twists that life can bring.

Through the highs and lows, my journey has taught me the immense power of perseverance and the remarkable capacity of inspiration. It has reinforced the belief that diversity and inclusion are not mere buzzwords but indispensable pillars for a thriving gaming industry. As a woman, I am determined to challenge norms and pave the way for future generations, driven by the passion for gaming that courses through my veins and the unwavering support of my family.

So, whether you're a player, a developer, or a dreamer yearning to leave your mark, know that you possess the power to inspire, to challenge, and to change.