In the ever-evolving world of digital media, Miriam Verburg of Bloom Digital Media has carved a niche by focusing on untold stories and interactive experiences. After transitioning from art school to technology roles, Verburg found her calling in creating meaningful video games for diverse audiences. From her initial role as a project manager at Sago Mini, where she developed children’s games, to founding Bloom Digital Media, Verburg has navigated challenges with support from various programs and institutions. Her first game, Long Story, targeted young teens exploring relationships, while Later Daters humorously addressed millennials’ anxieties through senior citizen dating scenarios. These innovative projects caught Disney's attention, leading to collaborations like Disney Villains Cursed Café. Through these ventures, Bloom Digital Media continues to redefine storytelling within the gaming industry.
From Art School Graduate to Gaming Innovator
In the vibrant city of Toronto, amidst the bustling tech scene, Miriam Verburg embarked on an extraordinary journey after completing her master’s degree in communications. Initially working as a project manager for Sago Mini, a company renowned for its children’s games, Verburg discovered her passion for crafting engaging digital experiences. When economic pressures forced Sago to downsize, Verburg seized the opportunity to launch Bloom Digital Media. With backing from Centennial College, NSERC, Employment Insurance (EI), and Ontario Creates, which funded half of their debut game, Bloom emerged as a beacon of creativity.
Long Story, their pioneering effort, subtly educated teenagers about healthy relationship choices. Following this success, Later Daters humorously tackled millennial anxieties by encouraging players to experiment with being senior citizens. This imaginative approach resonated widely, eventually drawing the attention of Disney. The collaboration resulted in Disney Villains Cursed Café, blending beloved characters with fresh narratives. Bloom's strategy involves leveraging established IPs to reduce costs while introducing compelling new contexts for familiar figures.
Verburg emphasizes the importance of video games as educational tools, recognizing their role in shaping social skills among young people. She advocates for designing games that foster positive development rather than mere escapism, aiming to contribute positively to societal growth.
Through perseverance and innovation, Bloom Digital Media has established itself as a leader in reimagining video games as platforms for meaningful storytelling.
As a journalist observing the evolution of digital media, it’s inspiring to witness how Bloom Digital Media transforms traditional gaming paradigms. By focusing on underrepresented narratives and utilizing popular IPs creatively, they demonstrate the potential of video games as powerful educational tools. Verburg's vision reminds us that technology can serve as a medium for profound personal and societal growth, challenging developers to prioritize meaningful content over superficial entertainment. This approach not only enriches the gaming landscape but also contributes significantly to nurturing well-rounded individuals in our increasingly digital world.