Can video games change the world? This is what the documentary »Gaming the Real World« deals with. It shows how games might shape the cities of the future.

Cities all over the world are struggling with population growth. Video games can be used to actively involve city inhabitants in planning and building their own living spaces. In this way, public areas and entire cities are planned and tested through the medium of games. This »bourgeois way of playing« democratises urban architecture and planning.

The film follows three game companies that meet in the field of urban planning and gaming. Lydia Winters at the game developer »Mojang«, the makers of »Minecraft«, »Paradox Interactive« and the game »Cities: Skylines« and José Sanches and his indie game »Block'hood«.

Following the film screening a talk will take place with Dr.-Ing. Peter Zeile, city planner and research director for the project »Urban Emotions«, and Greta Hoffman, product and game designer.

Please note: The film will be shown in english.

Organization / Institution

ZKM | Center for Art and Media