The Lunar Cycle

Artist Statement:

For this assignment, I chose the lunar cycle as the foundation for my story. The cycle symbolises the passage of time and reflects a sense of – or lack of – fulfilment in regards to academics. Each phase of the moon represents different stages of achievement. This theme unfolds through the Academy for owls’ high standards and our protagonist’s struggle to meet them.

At the first “New Moon,” the protagonist receives a new opportunity, igniting excitement and hard work in the “First Quarter.” Soon, they reach their academic peak at the “Full Moon,” celebrating a full-ride scholarship and a bright future. However, in the “Third Quarter,” the pressure of maintaining excellence begins to weigh heavily on their shoulders (or should I say wings).

The second run through the cycle presents a slight shift in the text, but with significant implications. We start with a rejection letter in the “New Moon” and feel like a disappointment to our owl community in the “First Quarter.” At the “Full Moon,” we experience the lowest point, grappling with utter hopelessness in the “Third Quarter,” only to loop back again.

My aim was to represent academic burnout and the feelings of inadequacy it brings. The structure of the cycle creates an endless loop that, while possible in real life, feels impossible to escape in the game.

Playtesting with some friends was really useful to help me refine the short game. One friend said that she could relate a lot to the themes and suggested switching to a second-person perspective for greater impact, as I originally had it in third-person perspective. Another friend recommended introducing a few changing elements after the second loop to enhance the length of the play experience.