The Participa City project is proud to present “Participa City,” an impactful simulation game initially developed for a German audience with the purpose of addressing and combating Islamophobia and broader forms of racism. Set in the fictional urban environment of Participa City, the game immerses players in everyday life scenarios where issues of racial discrimination emerge in various public settings like schools, train stations, sports fields, and job centers.
What makes this game truly unique is the role-playing element, where participants assume the roles of individuals affected by racism, passive bystanders, or even perpetrators. This dynamic setup encourages players not just to observe but to deeply engage and critically reflect on their own perceptions, biases, and behaviours in relation to racism and discrimination.
Recognizing the importance of contextual relevance and meaningful local impact, Participa City’s partners across Bulgaria, France, Portugal, and Sweden are dedicating themselves to adapting the game’s content far beyond simple translation. They are customizing and reimagining the game’s scenarios, characters, and situations to authentically reflect and address the specific social challenges and cultural contexts present in each country. This enables the game to resonate powerfully with diverse European audiences and better equip participants to recognize and counteract racism in their own communities.
This adaptation process also involves developing a modular, digital, and multilingual version of the game, accompanied by comprehensive trainer manuals and digital toolkits, which support educators and facilitators in delivering the game effectively in formal education and community settings.
As one of the project’s core messages emphasizes: “This game offers a powerful opportunity to see the world through the diverse eyes of people across Europe, promoting empathy and a deeper understanding of racism and its many forms.” By fostering an inclusive space for dialogue and learning, Participa City aspires to make a tangible contribution to combating discrimination, strengthening civic participation, and promoting social cohesion throughout Europe.
Through collaborative efforts from experienced partners in five countries, Participa City aims to train people in education, administration, and social services — those pivotal in influencing inclusive policies and practices — empowering them to confidently identify and challenge discrimination in everyday life and institutional settings. The game’s innovative approach turns difficult conversations into engaging, reflective, and transformative experiences.
The Participa City game is thus not only a tool for anti-racism education but a catalyst for sustainable social change, encouraging individuals and communities to build more just and inclusive societies.