Playing Cards for Change
Hi, I’m Fynn-Luca Welp, a Design graduate from Saxion, specializing in Creative Media and Games Technology. My passion for gameplay design drives me, but my curiosity for narrative design and interdisciplinary collaboration has been a strong companion throughout my journey.
For my graduation project, I took on an exciting challenge with the Smart Cities research group, creating something beyond just a game. I designed an adaptable card game, aimed at helping researchers tackle sensitive topics in a gamified and approachable way. The game was tailored for workshops with asylum seekers, where it would be used to spark conversations about urban living conditions in places like Enschede.
To bring this concept to life, I interviewed researchers, collaborated with serious game developers, and dove into market research to identify the key elements needed to turn discussions into gameplay. My goal? To create a game that was easy to grasp mechanically but rich in thematic depth - something that could seamlessly lead to meaningful conversations between players. After several rounds of testing and iterations, I developed a card game that balanced simplicity and substance.
Working with the Smart Cities group was an incredibly positive experience. The people were not only knowledgeable but also eager to help. It was a rewarding environment, and I’m proud of the project’s outcome.
This project holds special significance for me for a few reasons. First, it pushed me to see games in a new light - not just as entertainment, but as powerful tools for serious, real-world applications. Second, unlike many student projects that end with prototypes, I delivered a fully finished product. Seeing it through to the end was immensely satisfying. Finally, this was one of the few projects where I worked mostly solo, which was a big shift from my usual role in multidisciplinary teams. It came with its own set of challenges, but I grew a lot from the experience.
As I step into the next chapter, my sights are set on finding a home in the games industry. My dream? To join a small or mid-sized team filled with passionate, like-minded developers where I can continue crafting games that matter.
Working with the Smart Cities group was an incredibly positive experience. The people were not only knowledgeable but also eager to help.
Fynn-Luca Welp
Student Creative Media and Games Technology
Ready for a New Challenge?
Did this story spark your enthusiasm for Smart Cities as a dynamic learning environment? If so, we’d love to hear from you! As a research group, we’re always eager to meet new students and explore opportunities for completing your graduation project or internship with us. Interested? Simply send us a WhatsApp or stop by our office (G6.25). We look forward to connecting with you soon!
