MaRDIStation

What is the MaRDI Station?

MaRDI Station is a video game that offers a playful and educational introduction to research data management in mathematics. The interactive exhibit is available in three open-source versions, each tailored to a specific audience:

1. A single-player online adventure set in the library of the mathematical institute in Oberwolfach, designed for mathematicians encountering mathematical datasets for the first time.
2. A multiplayer game set on a university campus, aimed at mathematicians facing research data challenges.
3. A multiplayer game for the general public that explores the concept of data freedom.

Despite their differences, all three versions share a common goal: helping players understand the role of mathematical research data, explore topics in Open Science, and complete quests related to FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable) data practices. By stepping into the roles of researchers, players learn how to share information, apply FAIR principles, and engage with services like the MaRDI helpdesk.

All versions are openly available under the MIT License.

Three setup versions

1. 1-Player: A simple online version for one player. The game is playable via your internet browser.

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  Single-player version of the game "Data Love Quest", a version of the MaRDI Station. Image credit: MaRDI.
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  Screenshot of the single-player game "Data Love Quest". Image credit: MaRDI

2. 3-Player Mobile Version: A mobile version for up to three players. This version includes 3 tablets and a projected map. Within this setup, you can load all available multiplayer versions of the game.

The mobile version of the game "Citizen Quest". Image credit: Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation

3. 3-Player Exhibition Version: A version with exhibition furniture for up to three players. This version includes a setup with three player stations and a projected map. Within this setup, you can load all available multiplayer versions of the game.

Technical drawing of the exhibition setup for "Citizen Quest".

Exhibition setup for "Citizen Quest". Technical drawing with measurements.

Game set up of "Citizen Quest" on board the MS Wissenschaft 2024. Photo by Ilja C. Hendel / Wissenschaft im Dialog. CC BY-NC-4.0

The game "Citizen Quest" on board MS Wissenschaft 2024. Photo by Ilja C. Hendel / Wissenschaft im Dialog. CC BY-NC-4.0