Understanding the H-1B Realities: A Simulation Built from Real Immigrant Stories

What if the H-1B visa experience — the lottery, the waiting, the uncertainty about whether to buy a sofa or commit to a relationship — could be experienced in a game? Journalist and game developer Alison Yang did exactly that. Her upcoming simulation game h1b.life  drops players into the daily reality of navigating the U.S. immigration system, managing money, legal costs, social support, and mental health, all while outcomes can still spin on a slot machine you don’t control.

Resource Links:

https://h1b.life/

https://www.wired.com/story/made-in-china-a-new-game-turns-the-h-1b-visa-system-into-a-surreal-simulation/

 

HOST: Lauren Clarke

 NEWS NERD: Rob Taylor

 PRODUCER: Adam Belmar