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

Game Seminar Series - Ubisoft 10 Years Later - A Candid …

February 8, 2019

The Institute of Digital Games is thrilled to have Coline Pannier speaking as part of our Game Seminar Series. She will be presenting Ubisoft 10 Years Later - A Candid Snapshot. Game Development: An Inside Peek into the Evolution of Ubisoft … read more

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Soundscapes in Video Games: Sound and the Feeling of …

January 30, 2019

The Institute of Digital Games is thrilled to have Prof Mark Grimshaw-Aagaard speaking as part of our Game Seminar Series. He will be presenting Sound and the Feeling of Presence. Best Video Game Soundtracks Manage to Instil a Feeling of Presence In … read more

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Focus on Board Game Design: MGGJ 2017 boardgame featured in …

January 30, 2019

A boardgame developed during the 2017 Malta Global Game Jam by IDG member Antonios Liapis was featured in the latest issue of SEEDS! The game is called "Alien Transmission", and it is a four player co-operative game of survival against the board. The game … read more

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Malta Today interviews Prof. Stefano Gualeni

December 24, 2018

"[...] digital gaming may or may not be the dominant cultural medium in future; but even in the present, it is already something that is dangerous – or at best retrograde – to ignore." Read the complete interview to IDG's Prof. … read more

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Philosophy Video Games at University of Malta: Launching …

December 11, 2018

We are proud to announce yet another philosophical computer game! Yes! IDG’s Stefano Gualeni just released his newest, digital “attempt at playable philosophy”. The game is short and sweet, is titled “HERE” and can be freely … read more

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Games University: Lil’ Arena Tournament at the Institute …

November 15, 2018

Welcome to the Afterlife hosted at The Institute of Digital Games (IDG) where the 1st Lil’ Arena tournament in Malta will be hosted on Thursday, 22nd November starting at 17h30. Prove you are the best Lil’ player in Malta and walk away with the famous … read more

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