IVC expertise on WDR: Prof André Hinkenjann categorises the German Computer Game Award

Every year, the German Computer Game Award shows just how broad and innovative the games landscape in Germany is. According to the IVC founding director, a "very wide range" was also evident this year: from artistically characterised indie titles and technically sophisticated productions to games that address social issues and try out new forms of interactive storytelling.

Games have thus long been more than just an entertainment medium. They combine technology, design, interaction, storytelling and user experience in a special way. The Institute for Visual Computing also researches and teaches at precisely this interface. The IVC's central topics include computer graphics, visualisation, human-computer interaction, augmented, mixed and virtual reality as well as games technology.

In the WDR interview, it also became clear that creative ideas alone are unsatisfactory when it comes to competing in an international market. Small and medium-sized developer teams in particular are dependent on reliable funding structures, good networks and practical training programmes. The German Computer Game Award sets an important example here: in 2026, the best games "Made in Germany" were honoured in 15 categories in Munich. Prize money totalling 800,000 euros was awarded.