In a monumental event at eGamesLab, Funchal, Dr. Dr. Norbert Streitz and Christine Riedmann-Streitz are set to share their pioneering insights on the future of gaming, artificial intelligence, and interactive design. The two-day event, scheduled for May 5th and 6th, 2025, promises to be a transformative experience for students, professionals, and anyone passionate about the intersection of technology and gaming.

Day 1: Feedback, Learning, and Thought Leadership

The event will kick off with a warm welcome from Prof. Dr. Pedro Campos – Scientific Lead of the project, followed by an introduction to the guests of honor, Dr. Dr. Norbert Streitz and Christine Riedmann-Streitz. Together, these thought leaders bring decades of experience in human-computer interaction, AI, and design.

During the first session, students and staff members of eGamesLab will present their top five eGames projects in a rapid-fire “elevator pitch” format. Dr. Streitz and Ms. Riedmann-Streitz will then offer their expert feedback, providing invaluable insights into both the scientific and commercial potential of these innovative projects.

A creative session will follow, aimed at positioning eGamesLab on the global stage. Discussions will center on how to amplify its international presence and influence.

Event Highlights:

• 10:00 – 12:00: Feedback and Learning Session

  • Introduction by Prof. Dr. Pedro Campos

  • Presentations from eGamesLab students and staff

  • Expert feedback by Dr. Norbert Streitz and Christine Riedmann-Streitz

  • International positioning creative session

In the afternoon, the focus will shift to cutting-edge lectures that blend academic research with real-world applications in the gaming industry. The two experts will present:

• Dr. Norbert Streitz on “Human-AI Teaming: Design Trade-offs for the Allocation of Control”

• Christine Riedmann-Streitz on “Participatory Design of Interactive Environments for Human Creativity and Learning”

Event Highlights:

• 13:15 – 16:15: Lectures, Presentations, and Q&A

  • Dr. Streitz’s deep dive into Human-AI interaction

  • Christine Riedmann-Streitz’s exploration of interactive design for creativity and learning

  • Q&A with the audience, encouraging a dynamic exchange of ideas

Closing of Day 1 will be hosted by Prof. Dr. Pedro Campos, who will reflect on the discussions and insights shared.

Day 2: The Design Café – Bridging Ideas and Innovation

Day 2 promises to be equally inspiring with the introduction of the Design Café, an innovative and interactive format designed to foster group discussions around eGamesLab’s goals and strategies for growth.

The Design Café will focus on the following key areas:

• Developing a national cluster to establish a sustainable games industry in Portugal

• Creating impactful eGames through applied R&D and next-gen prototypes

• Training the next generation of game developers, researchers, and creatives

In the morning, participants will engage in small-group discussions around three key themes:

1. “Next-Gen Applied R&D for Industry Impact: From Labs to Playable Prototypes” – hosted by Dr. Streitz

2. “Flagship Games, Platforms & Tools: What Excellence Looks Like (and Why It Matters)” – hosted by Prof. Dr. Pedro Campos

3. “Training the Next Generation of Game Creators: Junior Game Developers, Fine Arts, Psychology, Narrative, and Virtual Reality” – hosted by Christine Riedmann-Streitz

After each round of discussions, participants will present their takeaways and actionable insights, making for a vibrant exchange of ideas.

The afternoon session will tackle the broader challenge of sustaining eGames R&D and commercial activity in Portugal, with a special focus on brand positioning and strategic sustainability. Christine Riedmann-Streitz will lead a presentation on “Brand Positioning of eGamesLab”, followed by a creative session to develop actionable strategies for maintaining the momentum in Portugal’s growing gaming industry.

Event Highlights:

• 10:00 – 16:30: The Design Café

  • Group discussions on eGamesLab’s future, R&D impact, and industry positioning

  • Three distinct thematic discussions to shape the future of eGames

  • Closing creative session on sustainability

Closing Remarks of Day 2 will once again be led by Prof. Dr. Pedro Campos, who will reflect on the ideas and outcomes of the two-day event.

Looking Ahead: The Future of eGamesLab and Gaming in Portugal

The event is not just an opportunity for learning but a springboard for innovative ideas and potential collaborations that will drive the eGamesLab project forward in a global context.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights from this exciting event. The future of gaming and interactive design has never been brighter!