Video Games and E-sport: A New Space for Culture, Education, and Social Life 

Modern video games and e-sport are more than entertainment. They are rapidly evolving spaces where technology, culture, education, and policy intersect. As part of the EU-funded GAMEHEARTS project (HORIZON Europe), researchers from the Wroclaw University of Economics and Business explore how games can inspire historical interest, support education, protect cultural heritage, and shape strategic narratives. Dawid Kościewicz, Ph.D. discussed the potential of games as tools of soft power and cultural strategy. 

Games as Tools of Soft Power and Cultural Strategy 

Currently video games are becoming instruments of cultural, social and geopolitical influence. Countries like Saudi Arabia are investing billions into the video games and e-sport sectors, treating them as platforms for building global recognition and national identity. Flagship events such as the E-sports World Cup and the Olympic E-sports Games are not just competitions – they are narrative platforms promoting modernity, innovation, and strategic ambition. 

Europe, with its rich cultural heritage and strong creative industries, must proactively design its own sustainable video games and e-sport ecosystems. Games can carry values, history, and regional narratives – especially if they are intentionally developed and supported. 

The Need for Development Strategy for Games and E-sport 

Although European institutions have acknowledged the importance of the video games industry (e.g., the 2022 European Parliament resolution), there is still a lack of coherent and integrated development policy for games and e-sport including this type of digital entertainment in the broad-based development of European culture and heritage. In this context, the GAMEHEARTS project demonstrates that it is possible to connect culture, technology, and education through systemic cross-industry cooperation – involving game developers and other organizations form cultural and creative industries (e.g., museums, archives, animation, theatres, etc.) as well as other stakeholders such universities and policymakers. 

Europe needs a strategic approach to video games, like its policies on artificial intelligence or digital infrastructure. Games and e-sport deserve a place in digital, media, educational, and cultural policy. GAMEHEARTS provides recommendations and roadmaps to support the growth of Europe’s video game industry ecosystem. 

E-sport as a Space for Social Engagement

E-sports is a new arena of digital culture, attracting millions of young people – often beyond the reach of traditional media and institutions. It offers a space for community-building, civic education, and value promotion. 

If public institutions choose to “enter the game,” e-sportcan become a channel for dialogue with younger generations, a space for social innovation, and a tool for strengthening cultural resilience. GAMEHEARTS reminds us that ecosystems can be, and sometimes should be, designed intentionally, planned longitudinally with rationale goals and objectives. 

Game Examples That Combine Entertainment with Heritage and Values 

GAMEHEARTS research not only explores systemic issues but also highlights specific titles that show how commercial games can support education and heritage – even without being designed as “serious games” but as traditional entertainment-focused video games. 

Assassin’s Creed – Transmedia and Heritage Protection 

The Assassin’s Creed series is a prime example of expansive transmedia storytelling. Ubisoft, the developer, created engaging narratives while reconstructing historical architecture, figures, and events. The Discovery Tour mode allows non-violent exploration of historical settings, and Ubisoft’s involvement in the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral after the fire illustrates how games can contribute to real-world heritage protection. 

Kingdom Come: Deliverance – Realism and Crowdfunding 

Set in medieval Bohemia, Kingdom Come: Deliverance impressed players with its realism and attention to detail. Its partial crowdfunding success shows that audiences are willing to support projects that prioritize authenticity. The successful sequel KCD II confirms the potential of games rooted in history and regional culture. 

This War of Mine – Education and Humanitarian Values

The Polish game This War of Mine (11-bit studios), inspired by war tragedies, including the Siege of Sarajevo, focuses on the civilian experience during wartime. It was added to the official reading list in Polish schools, making it a pioneering educational tool. Its humanitarian message was recognized by Amnesty International, and the publisher made the base game freely available for educational purposes – promoting values beyond commercial goals. 

Further details about the findings from the comparative case study analysis are available in the desk research report: D3.1 State-of-the-Art Report 1. 

Learn more about the GAMEHEARTS project – e-sports and games&heritage.

Authors: Prof. Patrycja Klimas, Dawid Kościewicz PhD.