Foraging Games: Exploring Generative AI systems to tackle high-dimensional game design spaces

Purpose and goal

The project will focus on initiating collaborative research on exploring tools and techniques for teaching computational thinking and design thinking through AI-assisted parametric game design on mobile devices. People often consume media on tablets and smartphones, but don’t often create artefacts, in part due to the interface and tedium involved. This project aims to overcome that by using a mix of parametric design and AI support, but keeping the human in control.

Expected effects and result

Build a prototype app, where games can be edited on the device by changing these parameters. Preliminary work towards integrating AI assistance. Pilot study to evaluate and disseminate the prototype in classes at AU and GU, resulting also in conference papers in key venues. The work will be the foundation for further involving other European and Swedish partners in the future to expand the research and industrial links.

Planned approach and implementation

As part of the project Nelson will visit GU around 3 to 4 times for at least a week each to allow for co-located and efficient work. During the first visit in 2024 the team will plan the development of a mobile design app, extending existing work. During the remaining project the app and the rtelated research will be developed, and evaluated at AU and GU leading to a dissemination at conferences and during workshops at both institutions.