In 2024, the creators of Mewgenics, led by Edmund McMillen, made headlines by including autism among the traits that its virtual cats might inherit. McMillen, who also co-created the indie hit Super Meat Boy, was surprised by the overwhelmingly positive response. Players took to platforms like Reddit and TikTok to express their excitement and appreciation, saying things like, “This is the perfect representation for autism. I feel seen.”
Mewgenics, which launched on February 10, 2024, quickly became a sensation. Initially announced in 2013, the project faced hurdles but was revived by McMillen after a hiatus. The game combines cute characters with roguelike gameplay, where players breed and manage cats with unique traits. As of now, it’s the top-selling game on Steam, with over 500,000 copies expected to be sold shortly after release.
Interestingly, the game’s themes have surfaced amidst rising misinformation about autism. With discussions around eugenics gaining traction, McMillen himself clarified that Mewgenics was not a political statement. “It’s a game about cats, you know what I mean?” he said.
In the game, cats can inherit a wide variety of traits, from harmless quirks to more serious conditions. For instance, a cat with autism might show higher intelligence but struggle socially. McMillen, who has family members on the spectrum, aimed to provide a nuanced viewpoint. He hopes players will embrace the strengths of these characters instead of discarding them for perceived weaknesses.
The inclusion of mental health traits in gaming isn’t just unique; it’s becoming increasingly relevant. A recent study showed that representation of neurodiversity in media can help reduce stigma and promote understanding. McMillen wants players to connect with their cats: “I want people to play and read between the lines,” he expressed, encouraging players to find value in every character.
Reflecting on his journey, McMillen noted that Mewgenics represents a blending of personal life and gameplay mechanics. Initially conceived as a simpler concept with less depth, it evolved into a complex experience about parenting, legacy, and acceptance. “The experience of raising children” and the “genetics that you pass to them” dominate the game’s narrative, showing just how personal this project has become for him.
As it stands, Mewgenics serves not only as entertainment but also as a platform for discussion about acceptance, diversity, and understanding in the digital space. By placing emphasis on the unique qualities of each character, it encourages players to appreciate differences, whether in cats or in humanity.
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