British DiGRA Conference

The British DiGRA Conference 2026, hosted by the University of South Wales in Cardiff, aims to explore the themes of periphery and identity in relation to British games culture. This inaugural event in Wales seeks to create a dialogue among developers, cultural critics, researchers, and industry professionals about the unique challenges and creative opportunities that arise from the peripheries of the gaming landscape. By focusing on geographical, cultural, political, and industrial factors, the conference intends to foster discussions that contribute to both national and global conversations on game studies. The organizing committee aspires to revive the playful spirit of fringe and underground events, inviting a diverse group of participants from various backgrounds to engage in meaningful discourse.The conference will feature workshops, roundtables, and lightning talks that encourage short-form research presentations, all centered around the exploration of identity within gaming. Topics of interest include the examination of peripheral player cultures, the role of festivals and fringe gatherings, and how games can foster identity and community in the current political climate. Participants are encouraged to consider how regional identities influence game aesthetics and themes, the evolution of identities among designers and players, and the differing approaches to cultural identity between local indie productions and larger AAA studios. Additionally, the conference will address sustainability in game design and research, investigating how the gaming community can contribute to net-zero goals and responsible use of emerging technologies like AI. Through this multifaceted approach, the British DiGRA 2026 Conference aims to elevate underrepresented voices and broaden the understanding of the lived experiences of makers and players at the periphery of British gaming.