Games research and education (M.Sc. and Ph.D.)

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The Institute of Digital Games is the centre for research and education in game design, game analysis, and game technology at the University of Malta.

Our work is at the forefront of innovative games research. We explore games and play, uncovering new playful and generative possibilities in game design and technology. We delve into everything games can teach us about ourselves.

Our multidisciplinary academic team spans computer science, literature, game design, philosophy, media studies, and social sciences.

Read our latest report: IDG Annual Report - Academic Year 2021/22

David developed an innovative model for understanding board game involvement for his thesis.

It is an environment roaring with ideas, thoughts, games, prototypes, concepts. It was a period when I felt constantly inspired.

Rebecca is researching narrative in games. As part of her thesis, she developed a choice-driven video game.

Practice in the form of game project assignments and a supportive teaching staff really boost your confidence as a game designer!

The Institute feels like a little community that you're part of.

William's research explored the procedural generation of multi-floor levels for first-person shooters.

Being involved in the research process, I realised how passionate everyone at IDG is about their research.

David C.
Graduated in 2015
Rebecca P.
Graduated in 2017
William C.
Graduated in 2015

Blog What we have been up to lately

Brace Yourself for the 6th International Summer School on …

March 18, 2024

Picture this: You're at the forefront of innovation, tasked with crafting a game that pushes the boundaries of possibility, centered in Mediterranean waters while surrounded by top-tier mentorship, resources, and expert guidance. Sounds thrilling, … read more

IDG SEMINAR: Being in virtual worlds (March 21st)

March 10, 2024

In the wake of the recent publication of the three-book collection focused on fictional spaces and virtual worlds Virtual Interiorities (ETC Press, 2022), the Institute of Digital Games is organizing an afternoon seminar that promises to be a fascinating … read more

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ELUDAMOS call for papers on fictional games

February 17, 2024

The eminent game studies journal Eludamos issued a call for papers for a special issue titled "Fictional Games and Fictional Game Studies" (submission deadline 15 October 2024) The guest-editors for this special issue are none other than our own Prof. … read more

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Georgios Yannakakis Speaks at Congreso Futuro on the …

February 13, 2024

Santiago, Chile: The debate surrounding the relevance of academia transcends disciplines, infiltrating even the realm of AI research. IDG's Georgios Yannakakis, alongside Julian Togelius, penned an opinion paper titled 'Choose Your Weapon: … read more

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EXTENDED EDUCATION SEMINAR (in Turin)

February 9, 2024

The University of Turin (department of Philosophy and Education Sciences), is organizing a 2-day congresso (symposium) on the themes of education and transformativity in virtual worlds. Together with some known faces and long-time friends … read more

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On Ruins and Living – Daniel Vella Collaborates with an …

January 29, 2024

Vienna, Austria: The year 2024 began with a poignant reflection on our crumbling worlds, both metaphorically and philosophically. A panel of academics from various parts of the world gathered to remind us of the ongoing catastrophes surrounding us. The … read more

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