Display 2022: Games Master Showcase

The Display 2022 event served as a showcase for the Games Master program at HAW Hamburg, highlighting the creative output and technical proficiency of students after three semesters of development. The event emphasized the role of public universities in fostering new talent for the German games industry, noting that many student teams from this program successfully transition into professional studio founders and award-winning developers.

The showcase featured six distinct projects, ranging from commercial-ready titles to serious games addressing social issues. Notable entries included Light of Atlantis, a 2D puzzle-platformer; Ki Nana, a nature-themed adventure; and Forlorn, a first-person horror experience. Additionally, the event highlighted serious games such as Das ist kein Spiel mehr, which utilizes board and card games to teach defense against harassment, and Xylophongos, a narrative project exploring terminal care through an ecological lens. The co-op shooter Metacore was also presented, with several of these teams moving on to participate in the Games Lift Incubator 2022.

This initiative underscores the ongoing efforts within Hamburg to bridge the gap between academic training and the professional games market. By providing a platform for students to present their work to industry professionals, the event facilitates networking and professional development. The Games Master program remains a key contributor to the local ecosystem, supported by broader regional initiatives that provide funding, mentorship, and exhibition opportunities for emerging developers. All projects featured during the event are documented and accessible through the HAW Games Lab collection on itch.io.