The project is structured into nine work packages (WPs). Six WPs focus on scientific research activities directly contributing to the core objectives, while three technical WPs support collaboration, integration, and ensure ethical and legal compliance with EU research standards.
In WP1, a key deliverable, a comprehensive public report, was completed. It shows how earlier studies linking violent video games to real-world aggression have been widely discredited. Contemporary research presents a more balanced view, acknowledging both positive and negative impacts of gaming, including risks of exploitation by extremist actors. “Gamification” emerged as a central but contested theme. The report calls for critical re-evaluation of links between gamification and extremist content, warning against over-interpreting aesthetic similarities with shooter games. It also highlights how inconsistent terminology, particularly around “gaming” and “gaming-adjacent” spaces, can obscure findings and reinforce negative stereotypes.
Four outputs were delivered under WP2. The final report presents qualitative and quantitative analyses of extremist content across Steam, Discord, 4chan, Gamer Uprising, and incels.is. Overall, extremist material was found to be relatively limited in volume and only indirectly linked to gaming platforms and play.
WP3 was designed to involve European Police Authorities (EPAs) in co-creating tools and knowledge. Activities to date have focused on a detailed needs assessment regarding EPAs’ understanding of and readiness for dealing with extremism in gaming spaces. These findings directly inform the EPA training curriculum and the development of the Watchtower Platform.
A comprehensive mapping of relevant non-EU stakeholders was completed in WP4, and disseminated to the consortium. The resulting database has identified international partners whose involvement will support the project's aims by contributing external expertise and comparative perspectives.
The responsible partner developed and delivered the Watchtower Platform, a tool designed to (1) identify extremist presence in gaming environments, and (2) disrupt grooming and recruitment activities in real time. Completed milestones include the training of a custom large language model (LLM) and a dedicated user interface.
In WP6, substantial progress has been made toward creating the European Network Against Gaming-related Extremism (ENgaGE). A mapping of key gaming stakeholders across the EU revealed major strategic and policy gaps, particularly in the Western Balkans. The report highlights that awareness and research are mainly led by non-state actors, while the gaming industry's preventive potential remains underutilized in that region.
