In honor of its fiftieth anniversary, the PLAY – Game Festival kicks off this year with a special celebration dedicated to Dungeons & Dragons, the world’s most famous role-playing game. Pavilion B will be the focal point of this universe, with guest of honor David “Zeb” Cook, an iconic figure in the realm of role-playing games since the 1980s. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Cook during the “Survive the Dungeon” event and at the Mondiversi stand, where they can play and discuss his works.
Alessio Mazzacani curated an exhibition titled “D&D: 50 years of adventures and art,” which will showcase the D&D universe through a multimedia narrative set within a fantasy tavern environment. The exhibit will feature historical artifacts such as manuals and original game boxes, as well as artwork by Katerina Ladon and Francesca Baerald. Visitors will have ample opportunities to meet these esteemed guests throughout the festival.
The PLAY Festival del Gioco goes beyond celebrating role-playing games and offers a comprehensive scientific presence, with an entire pavilion dedicated to exploring the cultural and educational aspects of gaming. Collaborations with institutions like INAF and INFN, as well as Italian universities, add depth to the program by offering workshops, conferences, and interactive experiences that highlight the relationship between games and science. Must-see events include “Pixels – who wants to be an astrophysicist?” and “Physics Gets Played,” both of which offer engaging ways to learn about astrophysics and physics through gameplay.
In conclusion, the PLAY Festival del Gioco offers a diverse and immersive experience for gaming enthusiasts, blending art, history, science, and gameplay in a fun and educational setting. With something for everyone, this event promises to be a memorable celebration of gaming culture and innovation.
