Interest in Sámi culture in the gaming industry is growing, this gives new job opportunities for the Sámi. The gaming industry needs experts in Sámi languages and culture, for example musicians, game developers, technical experts, and graphic artists.
The Interreg Aurora funded small-scale project Preparatory DigiÁrran has resulted in establishing a project network, identifying potential partners, and developing project activities for a regular project application. The preparatory project has increased the project partners knowledge and experiences.
Personnel from Gáisi Language Centre, Gaaltije Museum, Sámi University of Applied Sciences, Giellagas Institute, and Kajaani University of Applied Sciences have actively been engaged in brainstorming sessions and a workshop was arranged in 6-9 June 2023 in Utsjoki, Finland. This workshop was combined with participation in a “Skins” workshop. Skins is an initiative that since 2016 teach Indigenous youth how to adapt stories from their community into experimental digital media, such as video games. This combined scheduling of workshops facilitated important interactions with international Indigenous game designers.
The project partners have decided to call the new upcoming application Sámi Metaverse which better describes the innovativeness, courage, and pioneering spirit of the project. Sámi Metaverse seeks to combine árbediehtu/traditional knowledge with modern technologies, revitalizing Sámi culture and language through metaverse platforms like Minecraft.
The project leader Kati Eriksen from Sámi allaskuvla says that “The metaverse allows for a blend of physical and virtual realities. It can be a powerful tool for Indigenous peoples such as Sami to preserve and develop their traditional knowledge as they can use the metaverse to shape and share their own stories and knowledge. Within this space, they can bring to life their customs, tales, and teachings, all while maintaining control over their narrative. While others can visit this digital realm to immerse in and learn about Sami culture, it’s essential that the Sami themselves are the owners and storytellers, ensuring the true essence of their traditions remains intact.”
