Games Research and Education (M.Sc. and Ph.D.)

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Welcome to the Institute of Digital Games, the research and education centre at the University of Malta, focusing on game design, game analysis, and game technology!

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.

Click here to read our annual report for the year 2022/2023.

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

The IDG goes to Belgrade!

April 12, 2024

This April, the IDG will visit Serbia for a number of game-related events. Join us, in case you’re also in town (April 18 and 19)! Here is a breakdown of what is happening: >> APRIL 18: As a Tag-team, Prof. Stefano Gualeni and Dr. … read more

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Echoes of the Sea: Co-Designing Joy with Dolphins, A …

April 10, 2024

Once upon a time, in the azure waters off the coast of an island called Malta, there existed Mediterraneo, a marine park filled with life and joy. In its bounds dwelled a pod of our friends, eight playful and curious bottlenose dolphins. These weren't just … read more

IDG Team Contributes to the Creation of Polygon's …

March 28, 2024

USA: The academic powerhouse at IDG has not only been keeping themselves busy but also making waves in the world of entertainment! Recently, Polygon, the prestigious American hub for pop culture and gaming, bestowed high praise upon Fateforge: Chronicles of … read more

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 … 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 … 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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