On 10th June, GAME-ER, represented by its partners INOVA+ and AU, had the pleasure of participating in a clustering event organised by the Research Executive Agency (REA), bringing together several Horizon Europe projects related to the video game sector and the Games for Culture Cluster.
The main objective of this event was to bring together the insights and results generated by each project across their respective areas of work, while jointly discussing their contributions to policy action. The event aimed to ensure that the knowledge and research developed through these initiatives can translate into tangible and concrete outcomes with real impact.
During the event, GAME-ER had the opportunity to present the latest project developments, including the work carried out on mapping the European video game industry, the research conducted on its six identified clusters, and the progress achieved in terms of policy advocacy. In particular, GAME-ER presented the preliminary version of the Game Clusters Toolkit, currently under development and implementation.
Once completed, the toolkit will serve as a practical support instrument for policymakers and decision-makers, providing regional data, insights, and recommendations to help them make more informed decisions and support the development of video game clusters across different regional contexts.
Among the various sessions and discussions, GAME-ER highlighted a dedicated session moderated by the project together with other initiatives from the Cluster. This session brought together participants to discuss the challenges associated with mapping the video game industry, including the methodological difficulties faced by several projects. The discussion with Andrea Galelli from EUROSTAT provided valuable insights and encouraged an exchange of ideas, leading to new opportunities for collaboration that are currently being explored.
Another panel described the funding and research priorities for the future. With partners highlighting the need to create funding opportunities that are both highly relevant for industry as well as simple in terms of the application process. In addition, the need to study alternative business models and modes of organization within the industry was also highlighted.
Events such as this are essential for fostering knowledge exchange, strengthening collaboration between projects, and maximising the impact of European research and innovation initiatives. GAME-ER would like to thank REA and Project Officer Jens Hemmelskamp for their continuous commitment to promoting cooperation, knowledge sharing, and joint efforts across the community.
