As video games become a central part of young people’s digital lives, Educating for a Video Game Culture challenges outdated stereotypes and calls for a more informed and pedagogical approach to gaming. Developed by the Council of Europe, this guide addresses teachers, parents, and all adults with an educational role, offering a balanced view of the risks and opportunities in gaming.

The guide is structured like a classic video game, progressing through three “worlds.” World 1 explores the structure of the gaming industry and the psychology behind gaming. It introduces concepts like “flow” and explains gaming devices, age ratings, and parental controls. World 2 highlights potential risks such as addiction, in-app purchases, hate speech, and stereotypical content. World 3 explores the educational benefits of gaming: fostering critical thinking, creativity, tangential learning, and collaboration.

Rather than demonizing games, the guide encourages adults to understand their cultural, emotional, and educational dimensions. It aims to foster a “video game culture” built on reflection, curiosity, and dialogue. By doing so, it promotes gaming not just as entertainment but as a space for learning and self-development.

Ultimately, this publication empowers adults to create meaningful conversations with children about gaming, helping them to become responsible digital citizens. It is an essential tool for educators seeking to bridge generational gaps and integrate gaming into broader digital citizenship education initiatives.