Episode 7: Dr. Kristina Bell, Associate Professor of Game Design

In this episode of Not for Credit, we visit with Dr. Kristina Bell, Associate Professor of Game Design at High Point University, for a fun and insightful conversation about games, creativity, and the evolving role of interactive media.Dr. Bell shares her unique journey—from a childhood filled with video games (including a hilarious journal entry defending Nintendo as a full-time activity) to studying film, working in sound editing, and ultimately finding her way back to games through the rise of indie game development. Along the way, she offers a compelling perspective on why games are such a powerful medium—one where players and designers co-create meaningful experiences.We also dive into her teaching, including courses like Games and Identity, where students tackle real-world issues such as accessibility, representation, and social challenges through game design. Dr. Bell highlights how games can foster problem-solving, storytelling, and even empathy in ways other media can’t.Of course, it wouldn’t be Not for Credit without a peek into the personal side. From her love of narrative-driven games like The Stanley Parable to her background as a punk rocker in high school and multi-instrumentalist, Dr. Bell brings a creative and unexpected energy to everything she does.Whether you’re a gamer, a creative, or just curious about how games shape the way we think and connect, this episode will definitely change the way you see the world of game design.