PLAY15: 8th Creative Video Gaming Festival

I always like to cover main gaming events, but sometimes it’s difficult to keep track of them all even if they’re in my own country, Germany. PLAY15 is one of those.

Being hosted by the initiative Creative Gaming e.V. from September 15-19 (so it already started yesterday), PLAY15 celebrates the culture of digital games. And in contrast to the overcrowded (and pretty badly organized) Gamescom, this one actually gives the public something for their money in a more creative way.

What this means is that there are different events one can participate in, divided into the sections SEE, DO, TALK and PARTY. These can be exhibitions, workshops, talks, performances, and a conference, among other things. The emphasis is on interactivity and, what is really important, bringing gaming to the masses, like families, something the general media seems to forget with all the hype (and chaos) surrounding Gamescom.

This year’s topic is “emotions and digital games”, a very thought-provoking one, and there’s even a Creative Gaming Award this year to celebrate it with some interesting entries like Lumino City.

The events are held in various locations in Hamburg. Unfortunately I can’t make it on short notice, but maybe next year or so I can do some cover story. However, if you live close by, are around for a trip to Germany anyway, make sure to give it a go.

The prices are also quite reasonable with 50 Euros for a festival pass (all 4 days) and 60 for the 2 conference days. 25 Euros for one day might sound a bit steep, but there are many things to see, do, talk about or party… to.

For more info, please go to the official website.

Here’s the official trailer that is a bit weird, but quite funny at the end:

For some (for my taste a bit too hip) impressions from last year’s event, watch this video:

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