Research is a fundamental activity of higher education. But where does game making fit into the picture? Are games just an application area of research from elsewhere, or are games themselves a research area, presenting new questions and calling for new methods? This panel unites the directors of three very different game research groups. Each describes a recent project - and outlines why building complete games that can be released to the public, is essential for their research. Together, they provide an arsenal for those considering making games within their own research or simply needing to convince a skeptical dean.