Now in its eighth year, London's leading festival of experimental games returns to Somerset House for a weekend of engaging interaction and play for all ages.

Friday 8 - Sunday 10 April.

Now Play This showcases the very latest in independent and experimental game design from across the globe.

This year’s festival explores the relationship between democracy and game design, inviting audiences to creatively explore what democracy can learn from game design, and in turn how game design can become more democratic. Power, decision-making and representation serve as inspiration for thought-provoking solo and multiplayer gaming experiences by pioneering creative voices from around the world.

From how elections are influenced through the shape of voting districts (The Redistricting Game by Chris Swain & Peggy Weil), understanding parliamentary procedure via fantastical realms (Rules & Roberts by Molleindustria), the process of violent revolution (Statues by Space Backyard) to visions of utopian queer communities (We Dwell in Possibility by Robert Yang & Eleanor Davis), visitors will have the chance to creatively interrogate some of the most pressing issues the world faces by viewing- and playing- the best trailblazing projects inspired by gaming culture. A powerful creative medium, the games featured seek to make even the most complex political questions of our time accessible.

As well as an interactive exhibition open to the public, the festival will also host a dedicated conference and Design Camp for game and politics enthusiasts from 02 - 08 April.

Visitors with a Festival Pass receive both unlimited entry to the exhibition across the three days as well as special access to the series of in-depth game making talks, workshops and activities in the Design Camp. Please note that talks will be limited capacity so spaces will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

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COMPETITION: Win 2x Weekend Festival passes to attend Now Play This 2022 at Somerset House from Friday 8 - Sunday 10 April 2022

To enter the competition, send an email to jamie@run-riot.com with the correct answer in the ‘subject’ line. The winner will be randomly selected.

Q: Now Play This 2022 includes a number of events as well as games you can play as part of the interactive exhibition (there's so much more). One of the games caught our eye, it's called 'We Should Totally Stab Caesar!', created by the self described Hong-Kong born word nerd (also a poet). Who is this person?

A: .1) Hannah Raymond-Cox .2) Hwa Young Jung .3) Hamish MacPherson .4) Robert Yang

Terms and conditions: The winner will receive a pair of tickets for Now Play This 2022 at Somerset House. No cash alternative or travel expenses are included. Entry is subject to compliance with the Somerset House Covid-19 safety guidelines. Full details and FAQs will be included with the ticket.