Gamifying Science: A New Frontier in Communication

At St Giles Medical, we are always exploring innovative ways to make science accessible, engaging, and impactful. Traditionally, scientific communication has relied on articles, posters, and conference presentations. While these remain essential, new approaches are emerging that reach wider audiences in memorable ways. One of the most exciting is the use of video games to communicate science.

From Illustration to Interaction

Many scientists begin by using visual aids — diagrams, figures, or professional illustrations — to explain complex ideas. But what if audiences could go one step further and interact with these concepts?

This approach inspired the creation of Nanocar Racing: The Game, based on the real-life Nanocar Race where research teams design and race molecular “cars” across a gold track using advanced microscopes. Translated into an arcade-style game, players can choose molecules, steer them around obstacles, and compete on a leaderboard. Originally developed as a web application, the project grew into a full arcade installation used at public events to spark curiosity and conversations about nanoscience.

Making Complex Science Accessible

Video games offer unique advantages for science communication:

• Active learning – players learn by doing, not just by observing.

• Engagement – gameplay naturally encourages exploration and curiosity.

• Broad reach – games attract audiences of all ages and backgrounds, from students to professionals to the general public.

Another recent project, The Phage Collection Project, demonstrates the power of this medium. Presented as a virtual reality experience, it allows players to step into a simulated lab and explore the use of bacteriophages as potential therapies for antibiotic-resistant infections. Exhibited at the Royal Society’s Summer Science Exhibition, the game offered a highly interactive way for visitors to learn about a critical area of biomedical research.

The Future of Scientific Video Games

The field is expanding quickly. Specialist start-ups are now working with universities, museums, and educators to bring interactive science into classrooms and public spaces. Projects such as Atomic Fusion, currently in development, are designed specifically for young learners to explore science concepts through play.

At St Giles Medical, we recognise the value of these innovations. Just as films, illustrations, and digital media have transformed the way health and science are communicated, video games represent another powerful tool in our shared mission: to make complex science accessible, engaging, and relevant to society.