Man creates computer game in memory of brother

DM1612293a.jpg David Franco is creating a video game to raise money for charity following the death of his brother. Photo by Derek Martin. SUS-160125-171900008

David Franco, of First Avenue, Worthing, lost his older brother Simon to cancer in 2014.

The game, known as 321, is dedicated to him with any profits donated to Winston’s Wish, a charity for bereaved children.

David, 32, said: “Simon had worked for a number of different companies, including Activision for years. The game is dedicated to him and for him with all proceeds going to charity.

“He’s left behind a wife and two children, one of who was born a month after he passed.

“I saw it fitting to commemorate his memory by creating a video game with all funds going to a charity that would have been very dear to him.

“My family think it is really great.

“They have been very supportive and they are all on board, which is brilliant.”

321 consists of nine levels and nine mini-game events, each level distinctly different from the last.

The gamer will work through a number of puzzles and obstacles through these levels to reach the final goal.

There are seven people developing different stages, including former colleagues of Simon’s.

It is currently being advertised as a mystery adventure but the plotline is being kept under wraps.

David said: “I believe the game’s strength really lies in the development and understanding the player takes on as they progress, so for this reason we are deliberately withholding information, even from our own team.

“We have different artists working on different levels, so this way they can also play the game and experience as if they were a new player as well.”

Leigh-Beth Stroud, community fundraiser for Winston’s Wish, said: “We are delighted that David has chosen to donate proceeds from the game to Winston’s Wish in memory of his brother, it’s such a lovely gesture.

“All the money raised will be used to enable us to support more bereaved children in the area.”

The game’s release date has not been confirmed, although it is reported to be sometime in the summer.

Gamers will be able to play online for free, with the added option of donating to Winston’s Wish.

Readers can visit David’s website at www.threetwentyonegame.com