National competition for quantum physics game designers

Could you design an electronic game inspired by quantum physics?

The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems has launched a competition that asks competitors to do just that.

University of Queensland physicist Associate Professor Tom Stace said that quantum physics has inspired artists, writers, and filmmakers. Even some of the latest Marvel movies venture into the Quantum Realm.

“We are now turning to game developers with an interest in science, or scientists who enjoy game development,” Dr Stace said.

“Quantum mechanics makes some pretty odd predictions about the world – which have turned out to be true.

“We’re looking for playable, fun computer games that explore some of the themes from quantum mechanics – such as superposition, entanglement, or even black hole evaporation.”

“Possibilities abound for game developers. On human scales, quantum effects are tiny, but what if they were amplified to everyday scales? 

“What happens if your racing car has a quantum mechanical breakdown?  We’re really curious about what developers will come up with.”

To be in the running for first prize of $1500, individuals and team should submit their game in January 2018.

The Quantum Games competition will accept games that run on common platforms (web, Android, Mac, PC, or iOS).

To enter, you need to create the game and film a short video showcasing gameplay.

The judging panel will create a shortlist of entries based on the video submission.  

Entrants can find inspiration at equs.org/games. They can also get in touch with a quantum physicist at games@equs.org.

Media: Tara Roberson, t.roberson@uq.edu.au, +61 404 516 635.