Programme Objective
The study
programme of Experimental Game Cultures aims at critical reflection of the societal impact of games while at
the same time applying it to the prototypical development of innovative game concepts and approaches. Therefore, the
central aspect of the studies is formed by the development of innovative game concepts beyond the commercial game industry
in interconnection with the critical reflection of games in their various historical, societal, and social contexts. Research
areas of the study programme are, among others, the use of games as an instrument for a better understanding of social,
economic, and political interrelations and for a democratic shaping of their future (serious games, critical games, educational
games, etc.).
Target Group
This interdisciplinary master’s programme is geared to graduates of bachelor
and diploma degree studies of all disciplines (in particular art, design, architecture, technical and social sciences, and
the humanities).
Course Contents
The study programme is project oriented and is structured around the subjects
„Game Development and Reflection“, „History and Theories of Games“, as well as a number of free electives. In addition, a
master’s thesis is to be produced containing either the development of a prototype of an experimental game with theoretical
reflection, or a critical-theoretical work from the field of Cultural Studies.
Graduates‘ Qualification Profile
Graduates
of the master’s programme Experimental Game Cultures have an in-depth knowledge regarding sociological, philosophical, historical,
and artistic perspectives on games. On this basis, they will be able to profoundly analyze, systematize, and contextualize
current developments in the field of game culture, games industry, and game-based influencing strategies directed by state
and economy. Furthermore, they know the constructive potential of games for raising awareness and dealing with issues relevant
to the future.
The core competence of graduates lies in the development of innovative games concepts with
societal impact. This includes creating game narrative and dramaturgy, game design and prototyping/simulation. In addition,
they possess a generalist‘s fundamental understanding of the whole game development process which also covers basic competencies
in project management and digital game development. Graduates are able to operate in interdisciplinary teams and can draw
on a broad spectrum of communicative and methodological skills for collaborative game development.
Graduates‘
Professional Fields
Professional fields are available for graduates in games research, games criticism and games journalism
plus in the conceptional development of art games, serious games, educational games and gamification projects.
