On 1 October 2024, the European Game Science Lab (EGSL) Cooparative Partnership was launched at the selected partner universities in Europe. The aim of this innovative teaching network is to unite the worlds of game theory and game design in order to fundamentally strengthen and further develop education in the field of game creation. It was already clear at the kick-off workshop that the EGSL sets new standards for teaching and promotes a holistic approach that inspires students and teachers alike.

Our vision: Developing more than just games Games are no longer just entertainment products – they reflect and actively shape social norms. The EGSL pursues ambitious goals:

Transforming the learning process: we want to change the understanding of video game development among students and teachers in the long term.

Social relevance: Games should promote diversity, address social issues, support inclusion and contribute to mental health. Methodological innovation: By combining game theory and game design, we develop novel concepts that meet the current challenges of a changing society. ‘Games are powerful cultural artefacts – we want to empower students to use this power consciously and responsibly.’

Realisation: the heart of our network The operational work of the European Game Science Lab is divided into three core phases:

Establishing a teaching network A dynamic network of lecturers and researchers is being created via partner institutions in Germany, France, Sweden and Spain. Regular online meetings, practice-orientated workshops and guest lectures by renowned experts ensure a lively exchange and a shared knowledge base.

Development of the LUNA framework Based on the findings, the Ludo-Narrative Game Design Framework (LUNA) was created. This modular concept provides teachers and students with guidelines, tools and methods for combining narrative structures and game theory elements in analogue, digital and hybrid formats. An integrated GenAI assistance system supports idea generation, prototype development and feedback loops.