The government has called the Video Games Research Framework a “best-practice supporting tool” for video game research, aiming to increase understanding of how video games impact individuals, societies, industries, and the economy. The improved understanding could then aid with implementing or amending gaming-related policies.

The guide itself is composed of three main chapters: Research topics and priorities; research standards and methodologies; and data ethics, data privacy, and data sharing. Two annexes — one on safe and secure data sharing for researchers, and another on legislation and standards — are included.

In addition to the guidance, the framework also sets out a variety of priority areas in need of deeper and more robust evidence, including why people interact with games, games’ impact on physical and mental health, and the influence of in-game features like spending and advertising on the player experience.

Further, the framework outlines researchers’ legal obligations under UK data protection laws, and directs users to guidance from expert bodies such as the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) on how data can be appropriately collected and handled during studies.

On the guide’s publication, Professor Tom Rodden, DCMS’ Chief Scientific Advisor, said: “DCMS supports some of the most exciting sectors in the UK and it is my priority to ensure that policymaking in the department is underpinned by the best possible science, research and evidence to drive growth and enrich lives.

“The Video Games Research Framework aims to facilitate high-quality research in the field of video games – promoting inclusive, transparent and independent practice.

“I am excited to see how adoption of the framework shapes new research and benefits not just policymakers in government, but the games industry and everyone who chooses to make video games a part of their lives.”

According to the government, the video games industry is one of the UK’s fast-growing creative industries, contributing £2.8 billion to the economy and employing over 27,000 people.

Recently, at the Enders Media and Telecoms 2023 & Beyond Conference, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer discussed her aim to maximise potential within the creative industries — which includes video games — with an ambition to grow the sector by a further £50 billion by 2030, to create a million extra jobs in the industries within the same timeframe, and to build a pipeline of talent.

John Whittingdale, Minister for the Creative Industries, said the following on the video games industry and DCMS’ new framework: “Video games are a booming industry – employing thousands of people and contributing billions to our economy, whilst bringing enjoyment to people in fun and challenging ways.”

“Today’s plans will encourage more research and study in this area so we can better support the opportunities of this highly innovative sector while also protecting players.”

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Dan Wood, Chief Strategy Officer and Acting Co-CEO of the Association for UK Interactive Entertainment (Ukie), also commented, saying: “The establishment of a new Video Games Research Framework will provide objective, robust evidence, strengthening our understanding of the impact of video games across society.

“As a sector, we will never stand still on this issue and will continue to work collaboratively with government, academia, and industry partners, within the principles of the Video Games Framework to ensure any future change is driven through strong evidence.”

In the UK — and beyond — the Scottish city of Dundee is hailed as one of the most influential cities for video games, and is most notably home of the AAA game developer Rockstar Games — the creators of Grand Theft Auto.

Abertay University is also said to have launched the world’s first named computer games degree, and has since established the Centre for Excellence in Computer Games Education.