In Summary

  • Dr Troy Innocent is the City of Melbourne’s 2017 Melbourne Knowledge Fellow
  • Has been recognised for work exploring new technologies as a way of using gameplay to activate city spaces
  • Will launch location-based augmented reality game Wayfinder Live 2017 during Melbourne International Games Week 

Swinburne senior lecturer, game designer and artist Dr Troy Innocent has been named this year’s Knowledge Fellow by the City of Melbourne.

Dr Innocent has been recognised for his work exploring new technologies as a way of using gameplay to activate city spaces.

Building on his previous work from 2016, Dr Innocent’s latest work is Wayfinder Live 2017, a location-based augmented reality game that encourages players to scan codes hidden in Melbourne’s laneways in a digital street game to unlock the story of the mysterious fictitious micronation ‘Ludea’.

“I am honoured to receive this fellowship and I look forward to working towards making Melbourne a playable city,” Dr Innocent says.

“In particular, I'm interested in gathering new knowledge around strategies for game design that activate social and physical activity in public spaces.”

Wayfinder Live 2017 is set to be showcased as part of Melbourne International Games Week (MIGW) 2017 from 22 October to 29 October.

MIGW is Asia Pacific's largest digital games celebration, featuring conferences, events and activities for the games industry, enthusiasts, public and educators.

Wayfinder game on a phone screen.

Through the Melbourne Knowledge Fellowship, Dr Innocent will travel to Amsterdam, Utrecht, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Aarhus, Bristol, Plymouth and London to develop knowledge and skills in the strategic design and creative development of 'playable cities'.

He will also undertake a residency at Library at the Dock, delivering industry and community activities based on experience and learnings from his overseas travels.

Knowledge City portfolio chair, Councillor Dr Jackie Watts, says Dr Innocent's work will help people explore, connect and rediscover Melbourne in a new way.

“Dr Innocent is a splendid example of the great techno creative talent at work within our city and I congratulate him on receiving the 2017 City of Melbourne Knowledge Fellowship,” Dr Watts says.

“Such innovative ideas and apps will most certainly stimulate a thirst for knowledge amongst many in the community.”