HIDDEN CODES

HIDDEN CODES is a serious game based on a chat interface that simulates social media interactions to bring a story about political radicalization to life. Particular emphasis is placed on the hidden codes and recruitment tactics of far-right networks—which give the game its title—that may have been previously unknown to those unfamiliar with the subject: A demonstration for women’s rights turns out to be a racially motivated rally; an ornate friendship bracelet is actually a symbol popular among far-right extremists; and tattoos that appear harmless to the uninitiated contain references to Adolf Hitler. The game thus addresses both the dangers of creeping radicalization within one’s own circle of friends and the sometimes cleverly employed strategies and talking points used by far-right extremists in their search for new recruits. By modeling itself on a social media user interface, HIDDEN CODES closely mirrors the everyday experiences of its teenage target audience. It also explains how social media mechanisms (such as algorithmic content curation) can push such material into the timelines of users who have previously had little exposure to far-right ideology. The game comes with accompanying materials suitable for classroom use, allowing it to be incorporated as educational content in schools.

The DCP Jury 2021