School of Arts and Creative Technologies
Cristobal Catalan
PhD by research
Thesis
Thesis
Story-led Environmental Exploration Games for Mental Health
- Supervisor: Professor Jon Hook & Professor Lina Gega
Cristobal's research examines the design and development of 3D games for mental health. In particular, looking into story-led environmental exploration games as potential proactive and preventive interventions for mental health through ‘play’. This research aims to develop a multidisciplinary game-based framework that can support developers and clinicians using a diversification of third-wave therapies translated into immersive games.
Biography
Biography
Cristobal brings extensive industry experience working with interactive and immersive technologies in the arts. His work in mental health using virtual technologies include projects with Creative England, Wellcome, and the Innovation Exchange Initiative, as well as collaborations with esteemed organisations such as the English National Ballet, The Royal Photographic Society, Somerset House and BBC. Cristobal's work as a technologist creative director focuses on inclusive participatory interactive experiences, strengthening the links between digital mental health, games, virtual technology and the wellbeing sector.
Research
Research
Mediating between ludological and diegetic contexts, Cristobal looks at appropriating appealing game design properties into purposeful games, leveraging positive psychological digital interventions for user wellbeing that can benefit large numbers of people.
Publications
Publications
2016, Mental health, media & human rights in Asia Media. London
2020, Create Open Health Initiative with Creative England and Wellcome Trust; Digital ideas, solutions or products that could help build resilience in young people and support positive mental health
2020, West of England Academic Health Science Network (AHSN) - Innovation Exchange initiative
2021, The Immersive Storytelling Symposium, University of Nottingham
2023. Forensic Clinical Network. Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust.
