Kingfisher: An Autism Tale

When the son of a wealthy industrialist disappears in the woods around a popular birdwatching area, the resulting investigation unveils secrets that had long been buried.

A mystery-driven adventure game

Kingfisher is a thrilling detective story where you take on the role of various different characters involved in the disappearance of a young boy. The game offers:

• A single-player campaign
• Point-and-click exploration and investigation with light puzzles and minigames
• Dialogue-focused story and gameplay
• Cinematic visualization
• Accessibility to players of all ages and levels of gaming experience 

Experience autism through gameplay and story

Aside from a crime story, Kingfisher also aims to inform players about autism, and let them experience the world as people with autism do. Three characters in the story are on the spectrum: a selectively verbal young boy, a no-nonsense police detective who follows her instincts, and a successful yet reclusive businessman. Some scenes in the game are played from the perspective of characters with autism, thereby enabling the player to see and hear the world as they do. Other scenes alternate between the perspectives of a neurotypical and a neurodivergent character, highlighting not only the challenges that people with autism may face, but also the strengths they often possess. 

Detailed and nuanced information 

For those players who would like to learn more about the subject, the game contains an information screen where autism-related events are explained in more detail and nuance than can be given in the story. Still curious? We also have an extensive autism guide, where theoretical concepts are explained in great detail, backed by scientific research. And if you're more interested in a personal touch, the guide contains videos where dozens of autistic people of all ages give some insight into their lives. Just want to play the game? That's fine too, all this stuff is entirely optional! 

An authentic experience 

The game takes place in Flanders, Belgium, a location rarely seen in games, and is entirely voiced in different Flemish dialects. We collaborated with local organizations, developers and voice actors to offer an authentic picture of the Flemish coastal region and the surroundings of the Zwin nature reserve.And last but not least, the game was co-developed with Autism Flanders. People with autism were closely involved in all facets of the development to ensure an accurate and respectful representation, and part of the proceeds will be reinvested in initiatives to help make the world a friendlier place for everyone on the spectrum.