Quantum computing is widely regarded as a major technological breakthrough, yet its implications for creative fields such as games and interactive storytelling have so far been little explored. In her doctoral dissertation, Natasha Skult examines how emerging quantum technologies may transform the design of interactive media and the player experience.
Quantum systems operate on fundamentally different principles than classical computers, and they can, for example, process multiple possible outcomes simultaneously. In game design, the use of quantum technologies could enable new kinds of game mechanics, particularly in situations that require handling complex sets of possibilities at the same time.
In her research, Skult explores how emerging quantum technologies may reshape interactive storytelling and game design, as well as challenge existing design practices. The study highlights both the opportunities and the challenges of applying quantum computing to game design. It also examines how these technologies may affect player experience in hybrid environments that combine classical and quantum computing.
Quantum technologies could transform player experiences
The research finds that quantum computing holds significant creative potential and may particularly support more complex procedurally generated content, adaptive narratives, and dynamic game worlds. In other words, games could in the future generate content in more diverse ways and respond more flexibly to player actions.
From a design perspective, quantum technologies encourage a shift from tightly controlled gameplay experiences toward more open, player-driven systems.
“This may change the role of the game designer into more of a facilitator or a ‘game master,’ who defines the framework and guides player experiences rather than strictly determining the course of the game in advance,” Skult says.
However, practical implementation remains limited for now, as access to quantum hardware is difficult and current tools are largely beyond the reach of game developers.
The findings also highlight several additional challenges. Designers face difficulties in predicting player experiences in quantum-influenced systems, and existing development workflows are not easily adapted to quantum principles.
The few existing quantum-based games are mostly educational or research-oriented, often prioritizing technological or instructional goals over player experience, which can disrupt gameplay flow. Player studies further show that users rarely focus on the underlying technology.
“Player engagement depends primarily on whether the gameplay experience is enjoyable and coherent. This highlights the importance of prioritizing player-centered design even when working with new technologies,” Skult says.
Skult’s work provides one of the first comprehensive analyses of quantum computing from a game design perspective. The findings contribute to advancing the use of emerging technologies in creative industries and to the development of new forms of interactive storytelling and digital entertainment.
The research also offers practical guidance for designers and researchers interested in next-generation interactive experiences. The dissertation emphasizes the importance of developing accessible tools, improving user interfaces, and promoting approaches that combine quantum and classical computing.
Dissertation Defence on Friday 27 March
MA Natasha Skult will defend her doctoral dissertation in Computing titled “Interactive Storytelling with Quantum Computing – Exploring the New Design Practices in Interactive Storytelling Using the Emerging Quantum Technologies” at the University of Turku on Friday, 27 March 2026 at 12:00. The public examination will take place at Agora, XX lecture hall (Vesilinnantie 3, Turku).
The opponent will be Professor Teiko Heinosaari from the University of Jyväskylä, and the custos will be Docent Jouni Smed from the University of Turku.
