WoMen in Science is a farming sim with an educational twist, aiming to extol the virtues of science in everyday life, as well as recognize the integral role that women play in the profession. It comes courtesy of indie developer Benoit Fries, under the studio name Luana Games.
Fries' intention was to make a relaxing experience where science and the diverse range of people who work within it are brought to the fore. After spending 15 years as a science writer, he noticed the lack of women within the scientific community, and in turn the lack of role models for future generations of female scientists.
While the game employs the usual mechanics found in Stardew Valley and the like, they are given a scientific spin. For instance, the plants that you harvest have certain genetic traits, and the in-game museum houses lots of scientific trivia. In addition, there is a minigame that aims to educate the player on the basics of programming, and many of the game’s characters are based on actual scientists.
WoMen in Science is self-published and available now on Steam and Itch.io. Currently, in early access, it will get its full release on August 15th. There is also an attendant card game that you can play for free, either by printing it from the developer’s website or running it digitally at Itch.io.
