Polygon.com / 30.07.25

Can a game about a pixelated cat change the narrative around drug education

Substance abuse education in the United States has long been regarded as corny, at best. (Think: D.A.R.E.) But LA-based nonprofit End Overdose is trying to make the field relatable through a browser game called Narcats World, a point-and-click adventure that teaches players how to respond to opiate overdoses and save lives by administering Narcan. The game (which can be played for free on the official Narcats World website) features colorful pixel art and stars an adorable feline the titular Narcat who must administer CPR and Narcan to save the life of an overdose victim at a dance club. Players who finish the first stage of the game (the only level thats currently playable) can sign up to be mailed a free dose of Narcan, which can reverse the effects of opiate overdoses in seconds, if administered correctly. End Overdose publicist Mike Giegerich told Polygon that the nonprofit also brings Narcats World to live events like music festivals and fairs, where recreational drug use is commo...
Read more