Zoe Quinn

Zoë Quinn is an American video game developer, writer, and activist, best known for creating the interactive fiction game Depression Quest. Born in 1987 and raised near the Adirondack Mountains in New York, Quinn developed an early interest in gaming and programming. Their work aims to explore mental health themes and challenge traditional gaming narratives. In 2014, Quinn became a central figure in the Gamergate controversy, facing extensive online harassment after a blog post by their ex-boyfriend, leading to widespread discussions about sexism and online abuse in the gaming community .

Beyond game development, Quinn has contributed to various creative projects. They co-created the comic series Goddess Mode for DC Vertigo and worked as a narrative designer for the video game Solar Ash. Quinn has also contributed to books and anthologies, sharing insights on game development and the intersection of technology and society. Their work often reflects a commitment to inclusivity and exploring complex emotional experiences through interactive media .

In their memoir, Crash Override: How Gamergate (Nearly) Destroyed My Life, and How We Can Win the Fight Against Online Hate, Quinn discusses the impact of online harassment and the importance of community support. One notable quote from the book is: “The No. 1 thing I've seen actually help with online abuse is when the person has a good community or a strong support network that's savvy and that can help them” . This reflects their belief in the power of supportive communities to combat online hate and foster resilience.