Dim sum-inspired board game invites players to learn about Chinese culture

In the midst of COVID-19, Surrey-based nurse Pauline Kong needed a way to take her mind off the daily stresses of the pandemic soshe createda board game inspired by her Asian heritage.

"I thought it would be an awesome opportunity if I were able to create a game," Kong said.

Steam Up: A Feast of Dim Sum is a board game that features dim sum,small Chinese dishestraditionally enjoyed at a restaurant. The game includesfive popular Chinese dishes, including shrimp dumplings and barbecue pork buns.

"This is a perfect way to be able to introduce dim sum to people and provide a nostalgic feeling for those who are familiar with it," she said.

"[Dim sum] isshared between family and friends during breakfast and lunch and it's usually served on a turntable," Kong said, adding that the turntable or a largelazy susan was one of the inspirations for the game.

The game has been play-tested as a tabletop and online board game by family and friends after its design was completed around March this year, Kong said.

To produce Steam Up, Kong started a Kickstarter campaign, whichhas raised more than $580,000 with the help of over8,250 backers from around the world.

Kong said she hopes the game will provide anopportunity for people to play and learn about Chinese culture in a fun and immersive way while also providing some much-needed representation in the industry.

"There's not enough Asian creators and female creators in the board game industry and we think this is an amazing opportunity to make a difference in the industrybecause we are able to bring this culture through food."