Iced!

Lore & Background

ICED! I Can End Deportation was created and designed by Heidi Boisvert and Natalia Rodriguez, and launched in 2008. The name plays off of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The game puts the player in the role of an illegal immigrant in the United States, with five player character options. It portrays the limits on immigrants' rights resulting from immigration laws passed in 1996. Players must avoid deportation or incarceration; other endings include voluntary deportation or attaining citizenship. Players answer myth-or-fact questions about immigration policy correctly to avoid detention and can engage in community service. Characters were based on real situations, and aspects were inspired by the Grand Theft Auto video game series.

Reader's Guide

ICED! I Can End Deportation is significant as an early example of a serious game designed to influence public opinion and educate on a contentious political issue. Developed with input from high school students in New York City, detained immigrants, and immigration lawyers, the game aimed to provide an immersive perspective on the legal challenges faced by undocumented immigrants. A questionnaire by the Center for Children & Technology suggested the game was effective in educating its audience. The game was featured in Teen Second Life and became part of school curricula to enhance understanding of legal and human rights issues. Its free availability and use of the Torque game engine made it accessible, and it received about 110,000 downloads as of October 2008, indicating a notable reach for an educational title.

Did You Know?

• The game was developed with the Torque game engine.
• It was featured in Teen Second Life.
• High school students in New York City, detained immigrants, and immigration lawyers were consulted for its development.
• A questionnaire by the Center for Children & Technology suggested the game was effective in educating its audience.