Parents of Parkland Shooting Victim Release Video Game The Final Exam to Advocate for Gun Control

This initiative stems from the tragic loss of their son during the February 14, 2018, shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, which resulted in the deaths of 14 students and three staff members. In The Final Exam, players have 10 minutes to navigate through a school environment, reflecting the average duration of a real school shooting. The game incorporates elements of gun control advocacy by requiring players to gather pieces of proposed legislation, including a ban on assault weapons, mandatory background checks, and safe storage laws. The Olivers aim to raise awareness about the urgent need for legislative change, emphasizing that the responsibility for preventing such tragedies lies with policymakers rather than attributing violence to video games.

Game Mechanics and Objectives

• Survival Challenge: Players must escape from a simulated school shooting within a 10-minute timeframe.
• Legislative Collection: Throughout the game, players collect various pieces of gun-control legislation that represent potential measures to enhance school safety.

Advocacy Message

The Olivers’ game also addresses the ongoing debate about gun violence and video games, countering the narrative that links violent games to real-life shootings. Instead, they argue that the ease of access to firearms is the primary concern. The game encourages players to engage with their local politicians, urging them to prioritize gun control measures over outdated blame on entertainment media.

Accessibility and Support

The Final Exam is available for free on its official website, where players can also contribute to non-profit organizations focused on gun reform. The project aims not only to entertain but also to educate and mobilize individuals towards advocating for legislative changes that could save lives.