Games that provide insights into the local Aboriginal Dreamtime, what it’s like to be a UN peacekeeper, and the nitty-gritty of cleaning up our sewers will be on display at USC’s annual Serious Games Showcase on Thursday 15 November.

The free, interactive event from 6pm to 9pm will feature presentations by teams of USC Serious Games students, academics, and local game developers, as well as opportunities for visitors to play games and enjoy virtual reality experiences.

Guest speakers will include industry representatives like virtual reality designer and USC graduate Nathanial Leach.

And additional booths will feature games produced by local developers such as Disparity Games, Ecoludology (which recently launched Problems and Pumpkins) and Refuel Games (Rally Fury).

USC Serious Games academic Dr Colleen Stieler-Hunt said the fun event would highlight the various skills involved in creating games, from art and design to creative writing and programming.

“Serious games are not just for entertainment but are created with a purpose, which can be training, education and even behavioural change,” she said. “They are designed to have a positive impact on the world.”

Dr Stieler-Hunt said a ‘calm mind’ anxiety management app that has been developed for USC’s Student Wellbeing team was a good example of this. The app uses quirky game elements to teach calming techniques to those who experience anxiety.

To attend the Serious Games Showcase, register at www-usc-serious-games-show.eventbrite.com.au

- Gail Champion