University of Tasmania

06/28/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/27/2024 21:25

From classroom to console: students launch PlayStation 5 game

Students from the University of Tasmania have teamed up with local game development studio Giant Margarita to launch Party Poppers on the PlayStation5. This innovative game, following the success of Party Golf and Party Crashers, showcases the vibrant talent and creativity of Tasmania's burgeoning gaming industry.

University of Tasmania Associate Professor and Producer at Giant Margarita, Dr Kristy de Salas, attributes the game's unique appeal to the collaborative efforts of the University's Games and Creative Technology program and its innovative students.

Gamers enjoying their first play of Party Poppers at the game's official launch. (Picture: Peter W Allen)

"Working with Giant Margarita provides a rare opportunity for students to gain real-world experience while still studying, which is invaluable for their future careers," Dr de Salas said.

This sentiment was echoed by ICT student Lindsay Mansfield.

"Being involved with the production of an actual commercially released video game as part of my degree was an invaluable learning experience and boosted my confidence to pursue a career in gaming," Ms Mansfield said.

A screenshot of the gameplay in Party Poppers, which has been launched for the PS5.

Globally, the gaming industry is experiencing unprecedented growth and is expected to generate over $200 billion in revenue by 2023. This boom reflects broader trends in digital entertainment and highlights the significant opportunities for developers in emerging markets like Tasmania.

Giant Margarita's games, now played by over 100,000 people worldwide and featured in international game competitions, demonstrate the potential of working with local talent.

Associate Professor Kristy de Salas (centre) with the Party Poppers team at the game's launch. (Picture: Peter W Allen)

"We want to keep Tasmania's brightest talent in the State," Dr de Salas said. "Successful projects like Party Golf, Party Crashers, and now Party Poppers are setting the stage for that."

Giant Margarita Founder and Lead Designer, Dr Ian Lewis, said this newest game in the Party series was designed with all players in mind. "We've built Party Poppers around allowing almost endless ways for players to make their own fun. It's easy for anyone to jump in and start playing with friends," Dr Lewis said.

Party Poppers received support from the Tasmanian Government through Screen Tasmania, enabling collaboration with local artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs.