Yangying Ren, a young game developer with an unconventional background, is challenging stereotypes in the gaming industry by creating simple games inspired by everyday life. Hailing from a conservative upbringing, Ren’s journey into game development began surprisingly late—she played her first video game at the age of 24. Graduating in 2017 with a degree in Financial Engineering, Ren initially set her sights on a career in finance. However, a chance encounter introduced her to gaming, opening her eyes to a realm of creativity that she had never explored before.
“Finance teaches you to understand through control, but it doesn’t teach you to feel,” Ren explained, highlighting the emotional depth she found in gaming. Over the years, titles like Celeste and Gris inspired her to pivot from a conventional career path to pursue her passion for game design. Ren enrolled in the MFA in Game Design program at New York University’s Tish School of the Arts, graduating in 2022 ready to make her mark in the industry.
Ren’s entry into game development was not without challenges. In a field where men comprise over 80% of the workforce, she faced significant barriers. Coming from a background that traditionally viewed gaming as a male-dominated leisure activity, her ambitions were met with skepticism. Despite this, Ren persevered, determined to break through the glass ceiling that loomed over her aspirations. With no backing from major studios, she opted to develop her own indie games, marking the beginning of what would become a remarkable success story.
Unlike many of her peers who focus on creating intricate, high-stakes gameplay, Ren champions accessibility in gaming. She believes that enjoyment should be the core of the experience, making her games approachable for everyone. This philosophy is evident in her game series, The Happy Life of a Salary Man, which has resonated with players for its depiction of a regular, content white-collar worker navigating life’s minor challenges. The game, devoid of levels, achievements, or scores, offers a slice-of-life experience that mirrors the realities many face. “This is precisely how real life is— a series of days sprinkled with minor variances,” said Ren. The game’s unique approach has garnered critical acclaim, winning several awards including the Muse Creative Award and the NYX Game Award.
Now working at Jam City in Los Angeles, Ren is contributing to the beloved mobile title Disney Emoji Blitz, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary. In her role, she aims to introduce new storylines and pacing to enhance the gaming experience. Her journey from finance to gaming not only illustrates her adaptability but also serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring developers, particularly young women seeking to enter the field.
Ren hopes her career can act as a beacon of encouragement, sharing valuable advice for budding game developers: “love, trust, breathe.” She emphasizes the importance of being connected to the world around them, as genuine inspiration often stems from everyday experiences. “Trust your instincts,” she adds, recognizing that the subjective nature of gaming means that there is no one-size-fits-all model for success. Lastly, she advises future developers to take breaks, emphasizing the necessity of rest to avoid burnout in a creative industry that demands continuous output.
As Yangying Ren continues to push boundaries in the gaming industry, her story highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion, demonstrating that anyone can carve out their own path regardless of their background. With her innovative approach to game design and a commitment to breaking down barriers, Ren is not only reshaping the future of gaming but also inspiring the next generation of developers to embrace their unique perspectives.
