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1998: The Toll Keeper Story Donates Artbook DLC Proceeds to Indonesian Women in Games
Extending Its Impact Beyond the Screen
As a game, 1998: The Toll Keeper Story exuded quiet confidence, delivered grounded storytelling, and maintained a strong sense of place. Set against the emotional weight of late-90s Indonesia, it used everyday routine and restrained writing to explore identity, responsibility, and resilience without ever overreaching.
Now, that same ethos has carried beyond the game itself. On Indonesia Mother’s Day, developer GameChanger Studio confirmed it has fulfilled a prior commitment to donate 20% of the first month’s sales from the 1998: The Toll Keeper Story Artbook DLC to Indonesian Women in Games (IWIG), directly supporting women working within the local game development scene.
Artbook Sales Translated into Real Support
The donation totals IDR5,199,800, drawn from DLC purchases made during the first month following the game’s launch on October 28. While modest in scale, the contribution is deliberate in intent, reinforcing the studio’s belief that creative success should meaningfully feed back into the community it represents.
IWIG is expected to channel funds toward both operational costs and skills development initiatives, supporting women at various stages of their careers in Indonesia’s game industry.
According to a 2024 survey by Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), 32% of female game developers in Indonesia enter the industry with no prior game-related experience, underscoring the importance of accessible training, mentorship, and support networks.
A Personal Commitment from Within the Community
The gesture carries added weight given the personal ties involved. Riris Marpaung, Game Director of 1998: The Toll Keeper Story, also served as IWIG Chairwoman for the 2023–2025 term. Her involvement places the donation less as a symbolic act and more as a continuation of long-term advocacy.
Framed around Indonesia’s Mother’s Day, the moment deliberately connects the game’s protagonist, Dewi, with real-world women navigating creative industries that still require structural support to thrive. The studio’s hope is that more Indonesian women will feel empowered to produce work that is both meaningful and value-driven.
IWIG Looks Ahead to Broader Empowerment
Musthika Dwitiya Laksmiwati, Chairwoman of IWIG for the 2025–2028 term and COO of Ikan Asin Production, described the donation as both encouraging and timely.
She emphasised IWIG’s next phase of growth, focusing on expanding visibility, strengthening mentorship pathways, and supporting women ranging from seasoned professionals to complete beginners seeking their first foothold in game development.
The long-term goal is clear: to make IWIG not just a network, but a sustainable and welcoming home for women building careers across Indonesia’s gaming ecosystem.
