Why do we promote change through games and play?
A game can be considered a system that not only reflects elements of the society in which it was created, but is also closely connected to it and capable of conveying information and stimulating reflection. The gaming experience can convey meaningful concepts and values, contributing to social change and inviting players to develop greater awareness, explore aspects of reality previously overlooked, and take on new roles.
Games for Social Change can act as powerful tools for transformation, promoting a shift in attitudes and behaviors regarding issues of collective relevance. Through games, it is possible to build critical awareness of inequality, practice solidarity and care, counter systemic discrimination and violence, and demand inclusion, self-determination, and social, environmental, and climate justice.
Play4Change focuses on Social Change by adopting an approach aimed at valuing and promoting games, projects, and research in which play becomes a central tool for education and personal growth, not so much in terms of acquiring disciplinary knowledge (in the traditionally academic sense), but rather as a tool for developing skills useful for understanding and facing the complexity of the world with greater sensitivity and awareness.
We firmly believe in the transformative potential of play when embedded in broader paths of reflection and awareness-raising, one capable of holding together participatory and situated design of gaming activities with a rigorous evaluation of its real impact on the people and communities involved.
