Italy's video game cultural events proliferate as festivals compete for institutional recognition

Italy is experiencing a surge in cultural events centered around video games, highlighted by festivals such as Rome VideoGame Lab, which has been running since 2018, IVIPRO Days at the Trieste Science+Fiction Festival, and Checkpoint Festival, all of which honor interactive creations. The Power of Play, organized by IIDEA in Pesaro, included the Games Beyond Entertainment awards. Smaller gatherings like Zona Warpa and networking events by Cotoletta8bit and IGDA Italia also contribute to the scene. Noteworthy past events include Game Happens (2014-2019) and exhibitions by Neoludica. Looking ahead, The Power of Play (October 10-11), IVIPRO Days (October 30-November 1), and Checkpoint Festival (November 13-16) are scheduled for autumn 2025, with IVIPRO Days focusing on cultural narratives and industry challenges, including unionization and co-ownership discussions.