HEVGA Fellows are senior scholars within the domain of game research who have made significant contributions to the field through design, theory or research. In 2025, five researchers were honoured with this internationally prestigious recognition.
Sotamaa describes his induction as a HEVGA Fellow as a truly humbling experience.
“I am particularly honoured that the recognition comes from colleagues who hold key roles in the field. Rather than recognising individual achievements, the fellowship reflects contributions made to the international research community,” he says.
The study of games as a critical lens
Metaphors of play and gaming terminology are increasingly used across various sectors of society.
“Politics is a game. The economy is a game. And this is not merely rhetorical – it reflects consciously adopted strategies and operational models,” Sotamaa notes.
According to Sotamaa, the terminology and perspectives developed within game research have become increasingly relevant for the critical understanding of a wide range of phenomena.
“Whenever possible, we incorporate these perspectives into our current courses at Tampere University,” Sotamaa promises.
One such course, How to Play Academia, will be offered in the autumn of 2025. Under Sotamaa’s guidance, doctoral researchers will explore how the rhetoric and mechanisms of games manifest in the everyday life of contemporary universities.
“Through basic concepts such as goals, rules and tactics, the course explores the operational logic of modern academia, sustainable ways to navigate its competitive environment, and strategies for actively transforming it,” Sotamaa explains.
Visit HEVGA’s website to learn more about the researchers who received the HEVGA Fellow recognition in 2025.