Interview with Hollie Flansburger, Heroic Female Developer of “Period Quest”

Interview With Hollie Flansburger, Developer of Period Quest

Flvaian Braggadoccio, Gaming Journalist: Hello Hollie- first off, congratulations on the success of releasing Period Quest! It’s been getting mixed reviews, but it’s definitely been a hot topic on Steam. How does it feel to have tackled a taboo topic like menstrual cycles in such a new and fun way?

Hollie Flansburger: Thanks Flavian! It feels great, actually. It’s time to normalize constantly talking about periods – they’re a natural and beautiful part of being a womb transportation device, and they shouldn’t be treated as something shameful or embarrassing.

FBGJ: Now, some “gamers” have complained that Period Quest is boring and gross. How do you respond to that?

HF: Hah, gamers will complain about anything! But Period Quest isn’t for everyone- and that’s ok. It’s not the most visually impressive game, but it’s honest and it tackles a topic that’s never been the centerpiece of a video game before. You know, if men had periods, there would have been literally thousands of menstruation-focused games by now.

FBGJ: I know! Speaking of periods, you’ve raised a lot of awareness about period poverty. What’s your take on that issue, and how do you think gamers can help?

HF: Oh yeah, period poverty is a huge problem – and it’s not just a joke. In Tulip, many women have to resort to using rags or newspaper instead of pads and tampons, and they struggle to make ends meet. I would say, instead of complaining that these activities are gross, or that they don’t belong in an RPG, they could just Venmo money to individuals who have been assigned the term female at birth (ATTFAB), or to organizations that support them.

FBGJ: That’s a great suggestion Hollie! Now, some gamers are saying Period Quest should have more combat, or better graphics, or like, gameplay mechanics of some sort. How do you respond to that critique?

HF: Look, I’m not an artist. I made Period Quest with the tools I had, and I’m proud of it – flaws and all. It’s not the most polished game, but it’s honest and it tackles a taboo topic. And hey, if gamers want a game with combat or fancy graphics, they can make their own!

FBGJ: Well Hollie, thank you so much for taking the time to talk to me about Period Quest. Any final thoughts or advice for gamers who are still on the fence?

HF: Support women, and just buy it – you might be pleasantly surprised. And maybe next time, a man will make a game about periods and it will have combat, and better graphics, and gameplay mechanics. But don’t hold your breath. Men are terrible.

Period Quest is currently on sale for $29.99 during the Steam “Spotlight on Diversity” Sale.