Frequently Asked Questions

What is the conference format?

Meaningful Play 2022 is scheduled to be held in-person only. We understand that the pandemic has created uncertainty around large-group events like this one. At the same time, our community has sent us a strong signal that they would prefer an in-person conference and the benefits that entails (e.g., live demos, social connections, in-person events). To mitigate the uncertainty as much as possible, we commit to regularly communicating with you about our conference format plans and any potential changes (e.g., switching to virtual if necessitated by COVID). We are also offering a flexible cancellation policy.

What is the cancellation policy?

If you cancel by October 3rd, 2022 you can get a full registration refund. If you cancel by October 11th, 2022, you can get a 50% registration refund. After the conference begins on October 12th, no refunds will be offered.

What are the COVID-19 protocols?

Please note that we will enforce MSU’s current and future COVID policies. MSU currently does not require masks but does require vaccination for MSU students, faculty, and staff, but not visitors, such as conference attendees. If these policies change, we will ask attendees to adhere to any MSU requirements. Also, regardless of MSU policy, we encourage (but do not require) face masks during the event in order to minimize the risk to our attendees. You can see MSU's policies here.

Who will attend the conference?

Attendees will consist of academic researchers, game designers/developers, and students.

How big is the conference?

Given the size of the venue, attendance is limited to 300 participants.

What is the dress code for the conference?

This is a game conference, not an accounting conference. The dress code is casual to business casual.

What is the code of conduct at the conference?

Meaningful Play strives to create an inclusive and respectful experience, inviting diverse perspectives and opinions. We do not tolerate any form of harassment of event participants. Participants found to be engaging in harassment may be expelled from the event and banned from future attendance.

Harassment includes offensive verbal comments, sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of member activities or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention. Anyone asked to stop harassing behavior is expected to comply immediately.

If a participant engages in harassing behavior, the Meaningful Play organizers may take any action they deem appropriate. If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact a volunteer or organizer immediately.

Is there free wireless at the conference?

Yes, free wireless is available throughout the MSU Union.

What other facilities are in the MSU Union?

The MSU Union contains a U.S. Post office, convenience store, gift store, several dining options (Union Pizzeria, Serrano's Mexican, and Union Deli), BIGGBY's gourmet coffee shop, the MSU Dairy Store, a bank/atm, a bowling alley, a billiards room, and several meeting rooms.

I am presenting at the conference. What technology will be available for me to use?

Each session room at the conference will be equipped with a data projector, screen, and audio support. Presenters are expected to bring their own laptops. If you need any special equipment, please contact Brian Winn, Meaningful Play conference co-chair by email at winnb@msu.edu, for assistance.

I have materials that I would like to send ahead to arrive the day before the conference begins. How do I do that? Will I be able to post handouts/materials online?

Yes, please contact Brian Winn, Meaningful Play conference co-chair by email at winnb@msu.edu with the request for distribution of materials and we will do whatever we can to post your materials both online via the conference web site and to have them available for distribution during the event.

What opportunities are available for sponsors? Who should I contact?

We are currently looking for sponsors for the conference to help mitigate the registration costs for students, as well as provide conference meals. If your organization is interested, please contact Brian Winn, Meaningful Play conference chair by email at winnb@msu.edu or by phone at 517-353-5497.

How do I get around town once I arrive?

If you stay at the conference hotel (the East Lansing Marriott at University Place), you are within 1 block of the conference venue (the MSU Union). There are plenty of restaurants/etc. within walking distance. There are a couple other hotels within walking distance (see Conference Lodging). Public bus transportation is available in East Lansing, provided by CATA (Capital Area Transportation Authority). You can also call a taxi or rent a vehicle to get around.

I am driving to the conference. Where should I park?

The Marriott has public and guest parking. There are several parking ramps and ground parking lots in downtown East Lansing near the MSU Union. On campus parking is available but public parking on campus is metered and therefore not the best option for parking all day (see Parking for more details).

Can I register for just one day of the conference?

We will not be offering one-day registration unfortunately, though you are still invited to participate in the event for one day at the full conference rate.

What if I have special needs requirements?

We are glad to make any arrangements as needed. Please contact Brian Winn, Meaningful Play conference co-chair by email at winnb@msu.edu and we will assign someone to help you get answers to your questions.

Does the conference provide any childcare facilities?

We do not have childcare at the conference. To find childcare options, check the MSU Family Resource Center website. It has several resources and contact information.

Can I see the conference web site for previous Meaningful Play conferences?

Yes, view details on previous Meaningful Play conferences at:

Meaningful Play 2008 Meaningful Play 2010 Meaningful Play 2012 Meaningful Play 2014 Meaningful Play 2016 Meaningful Play 2018

I have additional questions?

Send your questions to Brian Winn, Meaningful Play conference co-chair by email at winnb@msu.edu and we will try to answer your question promptly.