Returning (to Orkney!): at the Intersection of Games, Language, and Culture
The Biskaabiiyaang team were thrilled to return to Orkney International Science Festival to present "A Path Through Games and Language".
Our speakers, Prof. Maya Chacaby of York University and virtual learning expert Benoit Buyse of UniVirtual, shared how Biskaabiiyaang brings traditional knowledge to life in the virtual world. Together, they described the process of translating Anishinaabe storytelling into game mechanics, resulting in an accessible, Indigenized curriculum.
We were delighted by the response from the audience who joined us live, with those engaging via the livestream and festival app asking many interesting questions. In fact, we didn’t have time to answer them all during the talk, so in this blog, we’ll do just that!
Integrating Traditional Knowledge and Technology
During our presentation, we shared how Biskaabiiyaang integrates traditional Anishinaabe knowledge with cutting-edge virtual technologies. The project is built around seven Anishinaabe pedagogies known as the Gikikinoohamaatowinaanan, or the “Way of a Good Life.” These teaching methods, including bzindamowin (learning through listening) and manidoo-waabiwin (seeing in a spirit way), are translated into interactive game mechanics that guide players through the virtual world.
In Biskaabiiyaang, players interact with Non-Playable Characters (NPCs) to learn Anishinaabe stories, complete quests that teach cultural and spiritual lessons, and engage in land-based knowledge activities, such as resource gathering and crafting, all while absorbing the Anishinaabemowin language. Soundscapes and visuals are crafted to authentically reflect the real-world environments of communities served by Nokiiwin Tribal Council, providing a deep, immersive learning experience.
“In many Western pedagogies, you’re expected to take in information and regurgitate it—that’s how you show you’re smart. For us, that’s not how it works”
The goal of Biskaabiiyaang goes beyond learning a language—it’s about fostering reconciliation and cultural revitalization in a way that engages Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners alike.
As Maya explained, "The entire Biskaabiiyaang world is a living archive of our traditional knowledge, philosophies, and practices. Long after I’m gone, this world will remain, and people can come in to learn, engage, and build on what we’ve created."
Benoit, reflecting on the project's foundations, emphasizes how seamlessly Indigenous pedagogies align with game design principles, creating an engaging, experiential platform for all learners.
“When Maya and I met, and she presented her project, it was like—this is a game already. Indigenous pedagogies fit so naturally with game mechanics. They tell stories, they encourage exploration, and they teach through experience, just like games.”
Audience Q&A: Exploring Biskaabiiyaang
Our presentation sparked many thoughtful questions, some of which we didn’t have time to fully address during the session. Below, we answer them all:
What does the word Biskaabiiyaang mean?
Maya shared that Biskaabiiyaang is a word used to talk about cultural resurgence, that means “to return home after a long journey.” The journey changes both the traveler and the home they return to, a reflection of the transformation that happens during cultural revitalization.
Why a post-apocalyptic setting?
Maya explained that the Anishinaabeg have already experienced an apocalyptic event: colonization. The post-apocalyptic world in the game represents a time of recovery and resurgence, where traditional ways are relearned in a transformed world.
Benoit added that the setting also aligns with game mechanics, as players gather resources, solve puzzles, and rebuild their communities together.
“This is a community-driven process, and working with the elders and knowledge keepers to design the stories that they want to share is what makes Biskaabiiyaang special. We are learning as we build, just as the players will when they enter the world”
Will we hear the language in the game?
Yes! Maya emphasized that audio is essential for learning the language. Players will hear Anishinaabemowin throughout the game, including regional variations to reflect the diversity of the language across different communities
How do you balance education and gameplay?
Benoit explained that while this balance is always a challenge in educational games, Biskaabiiyaang naturally lends itself to storytelling, which makes the educational content more immersive. Players learn through action and interaction, rather than through passive lessons.
What age of learners is this resource aimed towards?
Biskaabiiyaang’s main story quests are geared toward teen to adult users, though the way the world is set up means teachers can take students of any age or grade through it to interact with the language and teachings.
Do you see this game as being aimed at those from your community only, or for any game players, in the hope that it helps them to learn about your community?
The Biskaabiiyaang world will be useful to anyone who wants to learn about Anishinaabe culture, healing, trauma-informed practices, and language reclamation. It would also be a great resource for anyone interested in connecting with others and enjoying the social process of transforming the post-apocalyptic in-game world into a place where we all can live and grow together.
When teaching the language, are there cultural nuances included beyond direct translations?
Absolutely! We believe that language and culture can’t be separated, and this will become apparent once you dive into the world of Biskaabiiyaang. See this in action now by trying out the demo.
A scene from the Biskaabiiyaang demo
Continuing the Journey
We were inspired by the enthusiasm of the Orkney International Science Festival audience and appreciate the opportunity to share our work at their great event once again. As Biskaabiiyaang continues to grow, we look forward to future collaborations that will help other Indigenous communities preserve their languages and cultures.
As Benoit put it during the talk: "Kindness is the currency in Biskaabiiyaang. It’s not about accumulating points or wealth—it’s about building relationships, helping others, and earning trust to access the knowledge and resources you need.
For those who missed the talk, you can watch the full recording on the Orkney International Science Festival YouTube channel here.
We’d like to thank the organizers at Orkney for inviting us back to their wonderful festival and for continuing to support our project!
For more information, contact:
Violet Cronin – Marketing & PR
violet@univirtual.com
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