Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

Games as Cultural Artefacts: Participatory Game Design for Collective Narratives

Games as Cultural Artefacts: Participatory Game Design for Free University of Bozen-Bolzano Bozen-Bolzano, South Tyrol, Italy Abstract are told, how power dynamics are displayed, and how identities are This doctoral research explores how Participatory Game Design can represented [1, 12, 22].

• Participatory Game Design can function as an emancipatory practice by involving diverse, neurodivergent, and intergenerational groups in the co-creation of game mechanics, narratives, aesthetics, and technology.
• The research utilizes a case study at 'Villa S. Ignazio' in Trento, Italy, to develop an arcade game that serves as a tool for social integration and a playful orientation guide for newcomers to the community.
• The design methodology integrates ethnographic research, photovoice, photo-elicitation, interviews, and design probes to ensure the game reflects the lived experiences of residents in a social cooperative.