In this research article, we survey existing quantum physics-related games and, based on this survey, propose a definition for the concept of quantum games. We define a quantum game as any type of rule-based game that either employs the principles of quantum physics or references quantum phenomena or the theory of quantum physics through any of three proposed dimensions: the perceivable dimension of quantum physics, the dimension of quantum technologies, and the dimension of scientific purposes, such as citizen science or education. We also discuss the concept of quantum computer games, which are games on quantum computers, as well as definitions for the concept of science games. Various games explore quantum physics and quantum computing through digital, analogue, and hybrid means, with various incentives driving their development. As interest in games as educational tools for supporting quantum literacy grows, understanding the diverse landscape of quantum games becomes increasingly important. We propose that the three dimensions of quantum games identified in this article be used for designing, analysing, and defining the phenomenon of quantum games.
In this research article, we survey existing quantum physics-related games and, based on this survey, propose a definition for the concept of quantum games. We define a quantum game as any type of rule-based game that either employs the principles of quantum physics or references quantum phenomena or the theory of quantum physics through any of three proposed dimensions: the perceivable dimension of quantum physics, the dimension of quantum technologies, and the dimension of scientific purposes, such as citizen science or education. We also discuss the concept of quantum computer games, which are games on quantum computers, as well as definitions for the concept of science games. Various games explore quantum physics and quantum computing through digital, analogue, and hybrid means, with various incentives driving their development. As interest in games as educational tools for supporting quantum literacy grows, understanding the diverse landscape of quantum games becomes increasingly important. We propose that the three dimensions of quantum games identified in this article be used for designing, analysing, and defining the phenomenon of quantum games.
Abstract This article provides an overview of existing quantum physics-related games, referred to as quantum games, that serve citizen science research in quantum physics. Additionally, we explore the connection between citizen science and quantum computer games, games played on quantum computers. The information presented is derived from academic references and supplemented by diverse sources, including social media publications, conference presentations and blog posts from research groups and developers associated with the presented games. We observe that the current landscape of quantum games is shaped by three distinct driving forces: the serious application of games, the evolution of quantum computers and open game development events such as Quantum Game Jams. Notably, citizen science plays an influential role in all three aspects. The article points to existing design guides for citizen science quantum games and views future prospects of citizen science projects and quantum games through collaborative endeavours, human–machine collaboration and open access quantum computers.
With the development of quantum computing and quantum information science, quantum games are emerging as a novel educational tool that helps students intuitively understand complex quantum concepts. This paper explores the application of quantum games in quantum education, with a focus on analyzing the rules, teaching design, and their impact on students' cognitive development in “Quantum Chess”. Quantum Chess integrates core concepts such as quantum superposition, entanglement, and measurement, allowing students to experience the unique phenomena of quantum physics during the game. In the future, further optimization of the integration of quantum games and education will be necessary to meet diverse learning needs and promote the broader application of quantum computing technology in the field of education.
Education is vital to perpetuating knowledge, assisting in the discovery of innovations that will result in new technologies. As these technologies become more prevalent, so has, and will, the presence of games with the purpose of teaching important concepts, such as STEM, or even technologically, focused ones. In this paper,Q′Game, a game developed to teach quantum computing basics, encourages learning in a fun and engaging way. Through the introduction of qubits and superposition, as well as the basic essential quantum gates,Q′Game covers the fundamentals of quantum computing. From this base knowledge, players can explore more complex concepts in the field. Furthermore, this paper describes howQ′Game can be used as a unique learning tool and experience to create interest in the young generation towards quantum computing.
Game theory has been studied extensively in recent centuries as a set of formal mathematical strategies for optimal decision making. This discipline improved its efficiency with the arrival, in the 20th century, of digital computer science. However, the computational limitations related to exponential time type problems in digital processors, triggered the search for more efficient alternatives. One of these choices is quantum computing. Certainly, quantum processors seem to be able to solve some of these complex problems, at least in theory. For this reason, in recent times, many research works have emerged related to the field of quantum game theory. In this paper we review the main studies about the subject, including operational requirements and implementation details. In addition, we describe various quantum games, their design strategy, and the used supporting tools. We also present the still open debate linked to the interpretation of the transformations of classical algorithms in fundamental game theory to their quantum version, with special attention to the Nash equilibrium.
The ongoing second quantum revolution, marked by advancements harnessing quantum phenomena, has permeated various fields, including communications, computation, and networking, collectively known as quantum technologies (QTs). Quantum computing, a focal point within QT, has led to the emergence of quantum games, a novel research and development area exploring creative applications of quantum computing in game development. While more than 300 quantum games have been developed by enthusiasts and commercial parties, a comprehensive research program or state-of-the-art review is notably absent. This article addresses this gap by conducting a thorough literature review, presenting current advancements and examples in quantum games and interactive designs, and exploring future prospects for QT in game development practices.
Quantum mechanics is a revolutionary scientific field, which lies at the crossroad section of Physics, Mathematics, Computer and Computational Science. In essence, it is considered a cross-disciplinary STEM field, advancing the philosophy of Quantum Literacy (QL), which addresses the transdisciplinary nature of real world complex problems. QL addresses the challenges of learning and skills acquisition, through specific computing activities, within a highly bounded discipline and of access to the kind of powerful knowledge that should be more accessible to a wide group of learners. It is therefore important that quantum computing and quantum technologies knowledge is accessible to students and teachers who work with real problems, in a more inclusive and interactive way. In this paper, we argue for the necessity of exposing students to new and powerful quantum tools, as provided by cutting edge quantum computing technologies. We do that by proposing contemporary and STEM related activities and gamification scenarios, in which they acquire stronger mathematical and computational - problem decomposition and modelling skills, working as real researchers. By engaging students in games and activities related to quantum computing and quantum information processing, they acquire all necessary knowledge related to: superposition, teleportation, entanglement, quantum gates and quantum information. The serious games proposed in this paper relates to quantum strategic games, necessary for STEM activities to train students within the computational thinking 2.0 framework. All scenarios were implemented using the didactic model of inquiry-based learning using Python libraries.