From Fan-Made Kingdom Hearts Films to Crafting EA's Black Panther Game

This interview is part of GamesIndustry.biz's Black Voices Progress Report, providing insight into the diverse experiences of Black professionals in the gaming sector. Curtis Baxter, senior writer on EA's Black Panther game, reflects on his path to Cliffhanger Games and the value of genuine connections in the industry. Baxter's passion for gaming began in childhood and intensified when he moved to Japan, where he developed a love for all things nerdy. After studying at UCLA, he explored acting before discovering his true calling in writing. He took an undergraduate writing course, which sparked his interest and led him to pursue a master's degree in screenwriting. Baxter acknowledges the challenges he faced as a Black professional in the gaming industry, including being ousted from a company due to racially motivated reasons. He emphasizes the importance of training and mentorship in breaking the cycle of underrepresentation in the industry. Baxter advises young Black game professionals to focus on developing their writing skills, learning to write in different voices, and building genuine relationships through internships and networking. He also stresses the need for diversity and inclusion initiatives, expressing concern that many companies are abandoning their DEI programs. Throughout his journey, Baxter has been driven by his passion for storytelling and his desire to create meaningful connections with others. He encourages aspiring game writers to create their own content, build authentic relationships, and seek mentorship to succeed in the industry.