Zoë Quinn
Zoë Quinn
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Overview

Zoë Tiberius Quinn, born in 1987, is an American video game developer, programmer, and writer who has become a notable, and often controversial, figure in the video game industry. Their work often explores themes of mental health and personal experience, and they are also known for their advocacy for greater inclusivity and diversity within the gaming community. This timeline highlights some of the key moments and periods in their life and career.
Main Milestones
Birth and Early Life
1987
Zoë Quinn was born in 1987. Details about their early childhood are relatively private, but it's known that they developed an early interest in computers and games, laying the foundation for their future career in game development.
Game Jam Participation and Early Development
Early 2010s
Quinn actively participated in game jams, collaborative events where developers create games from scratch within a short timeframe. This period was crucial for honing their skills, experimenting with different game design concepts, and building a network within the indie game development community.
Depression Quest Release
2013
Quinn released their most well-known game, 'Depression Quest.' The game is a text-based adventure designed to simulate the experience of living with depression. While praised by some for its honest and relatable portrayal of mental illness, it also became a target of criticism and harassment.
Gamergate Controversy
2014
In August 2014, Quinn became the central figure in the Gamergate controversy. A former partner made unsubstantiated allegations against Quinn, sparking a widespread online harassment campaign targeting Quinn and other women in the video game industry. This event brought issues of sexism and misogyny within the gaming community to the forefront of public discourse.
Anti-Harassment Advocacy
Post-Gamergate Activism
Following the Gamergate attacks, Quinn became a prominent advocate for combating online harassment and promoting inclusivity in the gaming industry and beyond. They spoke out against the abuse they and others faced, raising awareness about the issue and calling for better support for victims of online harassment.
Crash Override Network Co-founding
2015
Quinn co-founded the Crash Override Network, a crisis support group for victims of online harassment. The organization provided resources and assistance to individuals facing online abuse, demonstrating Quinn's commitment to helping others who experienced similar situations.
Published "Crash Override: How to Save the Internet from Itself"
2017
Quinn wrote and published "Crash Override: How to Save the Internet from Itself", a memoir and analysis of online harassment, digital culture, and personal resilience. The book was praised for its insightful examination of the issues and its call for a more responsible and ethical internet.
Continued Game Development and Writing
2018-Present
Quinn continues to work on game development and writing projects. This period reflects their resilience and dedication to their creative pursuits despite the challenges they have faced, and a testament to their enduring influence in both game design and social commentary.