Post Facto
Warning: The sample news story used in this game contains many graphic elements that could be disturbing to a younger audience.
So, you have read all about the characteristics of fake news stories. Now, put your new skills to the test with Post Facto.
Journalist and researcher, Tamar Wilner, and game designer, Amanda Warner, teamed up to create Post Facto. In this game, players see a story shared by a robot named FactyPlex5000. Players then get to use their detective skills to investigate elements of FactyPlex’s suspicious post. The game provides simple tips and tricks that will allow social media users to sharpen their fact-checking skills in a low-stakes environment.
After reading an actual fake news story, the user is asked how the story made them feel. Once they have reflected on the emotional appeal that the story makes, players are then encouraged to dissect the claims made in this story. The game highlights commonly overlooked elements of news stories, prompting the player to check for things like typos or a credible byline. Players also learn how to use their search engine to reverse search images and check details like street addresses or names mentioned in articles.
Post Facto urges the player to critically read news stories by guiding them through analysis of a real fake news story. This game equips players with the tools they need to fact check claims and think critically about news stories shared online.