Today E-Line Media is excited to share that the BAFTA-award-winning Never Alone, is being inducted into the Smithsonian Institution’s new FUTURES Exhibition. Smithsonian patrons will be able to get hands-on time with Never Alone when they attend the exhibit and, for those who aren’t able to attend, Never Alone is also now available on the Epic Game Store for free (for a limited time). The FUTURES Exhibition goes live alongside the reopening of the Smithsonian’s Arts + Industries building on November 20th, 2021.
“It has been an amazing experience working with the Cook Inlet Tribal Council on Never Alone and we are thrilled to be part of the Futures exhibit,” says Alan Gershenfeld, President and Co-Founder of E-Line Media. “A key goal of the inclusive development process has been to share stories and practices which have been passed down for thousands of years through powerful new technologies that engage and inspire gamers around the world. Being part of the Futures exhibit and festival has been a great opportunity to continue this celebration of the past and evocative exploration of the future.”
Check out our full review of Never Alone!
The FUTURES Exhibition is the first building-wide exploration of the future within the Smithsonian, spanning 32,000 square feet inside the National Mall. It specifically hones in on the Institution’s eye toward humanity’s next chapter via artwork, technology, games, and more. Never Alone exemplifies many of the Smithsonian’s key pillars and finds a perfect place within the FUTURES Exhibition, utilizing the ever-advancing technologies within the gaming industry to celebrate the past and present of the Alaska Native people.
Known as “Kisima Ingitchuna” in the Iñupiaq language, Never Alone immerses players in an atmospheric puzzle platformer in the role of a young Iñupiaq girl and an arctic fox, combining traditional stories, settings, and characters that have been handed down over generations by the Iñupiaq people whose roots and heritage date back millennia. It features imagery and themes drawn directly from Iñupiaq and other Alaska Native cultures, contains striking visuals that emphasize the sensibilities and perspective of these indigenous Arctic peoples, and allows players to work cooperatively to succeed in challenging and harsh environments.
This year, the Smithsonian debuted the FUTURES Exhibition in celebration of its 175th anniversary. In its 175 years, the Smithsonian Institution stands as the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex with 19 museums and the National Zoo. Founded in 1846, it shapes the future by preserving heritage, discovering new knowledge, and sharing resources with the world.
The Never Alone team was comprised of Iñupiaq elders, artists, storytellers, and other community members as well as game industry veterans who have served in key roles on such popular titles as Interstate ’76, MechWarrior II, the Tomb Raider and SOCOM series, Quake Live, and many more console and PC titles over the years.