IULM Let’s Play: The Video Game Under Critical Scrutiny

In line with the exploration of the new frontiers of digital culture promoted by the Milan Digital Week , the IULM Game Lab is launching IULM Let’s Play, a series of live, game-critical readings. Curated by Angelo Maria Andriano, the program transforms video game sessions into a public exercise in analysis, highlighting the mechanics and the relationship between the player’s choices and the system’s response.

The initiative will take place on three Thursdays (October 8, November 12, and December 10, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at the IULM 7 Open Space. Through real-time gameplay and shared commentary, we will explore profound themes in game design: the narrative and mechanical significance of failure (October 8), the ambiguity and manipulation of rules (November 12 ) and, finally, the illusion of control within opaque and procedural systems (December 10).

Participation is free and designed for a small group of about 40 people. In addition to IULM students, the university reserves a limited number of spots for external participants. To apply, simply send your resume and a cover letter to [email protected] by September 30, 2026, specifying “External Application: IULM Let’s Play” in the subject line. Participants are required to bring their own laptop for the activities.

Schedule of Sessions and Registration

• Thursday, October 8, 2026, 2:00–5:00 p.m.: Failing Better Register here for the session
• Thursday, November 12, 2026, 2:00–5:00 p.m.: Ambiguity, Interpretation, and Decision-Making Register here for the event
• Thursday, December 10, 2026, 2:00–5:00 p.m.: Opaque Systems and the Decentralization of the Player Register for the third session