What Serious Game Studios Want from ICT Research: Identifying Developers' Needs

This study identifies the development needs and expectations of European serious game studios to establish a baseline for supporting the industry through advanced information and communication technologies. Conducted as part of the Horizon 2020 RAGE project, the research aims to bridge the gap between academic ICT research and the practical requirements of developers. By aligning research outputs with industry needs, the project seeks to foster growth in a sector characterized by fragmentation, limited knowledge exchange, and a lack of standardized practices compared to the leisure gaming market.

The methodology involved structured interviews with 21 game studios across 10 European countries. The sample, which included senior personnel such as CEOs and creative directors, provided qualitative and quantitative data regarding production strategies, pedagogical approaches, and technological infrastructure. Findings reveal that while studios are highly diverse in size and output, they share a strong reliance on the Unity game engine and C# programming language. Most studios prioritize experiential learning and natural feedback mechanisms, often avoiding in-game instruction to preserve player flow, a strategy that potentially conflicts with established instructional design research.

Key findings indicate that while studios express interest in emerging technologies—specifically learning analytics, real-time progress tracking, and adaptive gameplay—they remain cautious regarding implementation complexity and potential return on investment. Interoperability remains a significant challenge, yet there is limited adoption of formal Technology Enhanced Learning standards, as many developers view their products as standalone solutions rather than integrated components of institutional learning systems. Ultimately, the study concludes that while studios are open to innovation, they require tools that offer clear commercial value and practical integration without imposing cumbersome technical overhead.