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James Hodes

Writer, Game Designer

James Mendez Hodes is a prominent cultural consultant, writer, and game designer based in New York. He specializes in creating and consulting on both analog and digital games, emphasizing the representation of diverse human identities in his work. Hodes has contributed to well-known projects such as Magic: The Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, and the Jackbox Party Packs. He is also recognized for his writing on cultural issues, particularly regarding representation in gaming and media.12

Background and Education

Hodes graduated from Swarthmore College, where he majored in Religion and minored in Dance and English Literature. He also holds a master's degree in Eastern Classics from St. John's College. His interests span various fields, including martial arts, hip hop, poetry, and sumō wrestling.23

Career Highlights

  • Staff Writer at John Wick Presents (April 2016 - November 2021): In this role, Hodes researched history, mythology, and literature to contribute to the development of the tabletop role-playing game 7th Sea.1
  • Cultural Consultant: He has provided consulting services for numerous gaming projects, focusing on authentic representation and sensitivity to cultural nuances. His work has earned him multiple awards, including three Gold ENnie Awards for his contributions to Avatar Legends and Thousand-Year-Old Vampire.13
  • Freelance Work: Since January 2018, he has operated Mendez Consulting LLC, where he continues to work as a freelance cultural consultant and game designer.1

Notable Achievements

Hodes is known for his advocacy for inclusivity in gaming narratives and mechanics. His writings often address topics such as racism in gaming culture, exemplified by his critiques surrounding the portrayal of orcs in fantasy settings. His approach combines personal passion with professional expertise, making him a sought-after consultant in the industry.23

In summary, James Mendez Hodes is a multifaceted professional whose work significantly impacts the tabletop gaming community through his commitment to cultural authenticity and representation.

Highlights

James Mendez Hodes
Aug 7 · rascal.news
The X-Card was created because Dave didn't like the vibe
Nov 28 · reddit.com
I'm a RPG developer and cultural consultant. AMA? - Reddit
Who is mndz? - James Mendez Hodes
Who is mndz? - James Mendez Hodes

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James Hodes
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Location

New York, New York, United States