BIPOC Game Studies Conference

The BIPOC Game Studies Conference (C-BIPOC) is a pioneering academic and professional event dedicated to amplifying the voices, scholarship, creativity, and lived experiences of Black, Indigenous, Asian American and Pacific Islander, and People of Color communities in the gaming world. This conference serves as a platform for these communities, reflecting their roles as players, creators, scholars, and subjects of study in both digital and analog games, while also addressing their participation in the gaming industry. C-BIPOC is strategically positioned at the intersection of academic inquiry, creative practice, and industry leadership, aiming to foster a more inclusive and representative gaming culture. The conference features peer-reviewed research presentations, curated game showcases, dynamic keynote speeches, and open community discussions, all of which serve the purpose of preserving the narratives and practices of BIPOC game creators for future generations. Dr. Lindsay Grace, the Conference Co-Chair and Knight Chair in Interactive Media at the University of Miami, emphasizes this initiative as a culmination of ongoing efforts to highlight often overlooked work in this field.Scheduled to take place at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, the conference will continue to build on the success of its inaugural year, which exceeded expectations and established a new home for vital scholarship and community engagement within BIPOC game studies. The themes of the conference encompass a broad range of topics, encouraging scholarly and creative contributions from all individuals, regardless of their membership in BIPOC communities. Both allies and advocates are welcome to submit abstracts, full papers, and panel proposals, thereby sharing their professional expertise and industry perspectives. The conference not only aims to generate discourse around the representation of BIPOC individuals in gaming but also offers travel grants for emerging BIPOC scholars, thereby supporting their participation and engagement in the field. Notably, top papers submitted to the conference will be considered for publication in the ACM Games: Research & Practice Journal in 2025. Overall, C-BIPOC serves as a critical gathering for advancing the discussion on BIPOC voices in gaming and promoting connections among universities, independent studios, industry organizations, and gaming communities. The event is made possible through the generous support of The John S. Knight Foundation, reflecting a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry.