Meet the team

Members of the ProfNoctis Team at PAX East

We believe just like ProfNoctis gets his name from the Final Fantasy XV character “Noctis”, everyone is a Prof “something”. Maybe you’re a ProfMario or a ProfGustav from Sandfall’s Expedition 33. Whatever you’re a Prof of yourself, ProfNoctis is all about growing personally and in knowledge. As Prof says, it’s all about “Gains Before Games”

Meet ProfNoctis

Dr. T. Wade Langer, Jr. (ProfNoctis) is a researcher, educator, and digital creator who transforms video games into powerful tools for learning and engagement. As an instructor at the University of Alabama, he integrates gaming narratives with philosophy, religious studies, and leadership development, making complex ideas accessible and compelling. His innovative approach to education extends beyond the classroom to YouTube, where he leads a growing community, using story-driven games like Final Fantasy, The Last of Us, and Life is Strange to explore deep themes of grief, morality, and human connection.

With a background in religious studies, student life, mentorship, curriculum development, and consulting, Dr. Langer has helped educators, faith leaders, and content creators harness gaming as a medium for teaching and personal growth. His research on gamification and storytelling has been featured in conference panels and workshops— as well as an upcoming chapter in Psychgeist of Final Fantasy 7 (a text exploring myriad psychological themes)— offering fresh insights into how digital media can enhance memory, critical thinking, and empathy.

Evan Deyoung

Co-Host | Producer

Evan is the Co-Host and producer for the ProfNoctis YouTube channel and livestreams. He is passionate about making video games be more meaningful play experiences that reveal to us what we can learn through story and play. Through interviews and engaging educational content he loves to help viewers think deeply about their lives and get to know the people behind the games they love.

Research Assistant Program

Nothing happens on the channel without our wonderful Research Assistants! Just like a real classroom, the RA’s serve to moderate the livestreams, further outside research on projects, and lead the community in discussion and support on the Discord channel. Check out more information below!

Join the party!

  • Each RA is assigned a role from discord moderators, livestream moderation, video editors, research projects, and other community leadership.

  • Applications for the research assistant program typically open at the start of each Fall semester.

  • From monthly essays to the lecture series, there are lots of ways to show up and participate in a meaningful way without being a research assistant. We hope to see you in the chat or comments soon!