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A groundbreaking initiative led by a team of researchers from the Universities of Warwick, Cardiff, York, and Sussex is championing the integration of serious games in learning, engagement, and research. Termed ‘serious games,’ these innovative tools extend beyond entertainment, encompassing digital applications and physical board games designed for purposes such as learning, problem-solving, raising awareness, and stakeholder engagement.
The project, named GamEngage, seeks to leverage serious games across various sectors, with a particular emphasis on educating individuals about sustainable development and climate change. By uniting serious game researchers, developers, and practitioners, GamEngage aims to explore new opportunities and applications in serious gaming.
Central to the initiative is the creation of a ‘Serious Games Cookbook,’ meticulously crafted to offer detailed guidance to beginners in utilizing and designing serious games. Addressing key considerations such as establishing play goals, selecting suitable games, and facilitating gameplay, the cookbook serves as a comprehensive resource for individuals seeking to harness the potential of serious games effectively.
Dr. Feng Mao, Associate Professor of Global Sustainable Development at the University of Warwick, emphasized the practical value of the cookbook, especially in addressing pressing issues like sustainable development and climate change. “We hope to inspire and empower the Cookbook’s readers to meaningfully engage with serious games,” Dr. Mao stated.
Co-author Dr. Katarzyna Stawarz, Senior Lecturer in Human-Computer Interaction at Cardiff University, highlighted the multifaceted utility of the Cookbook, suggesting its application as a research tool. “Rather than playing games designed by others, readers could explore topics important to them, which could inform future games or other projects,” Dr. Stawarz explained.
The Serious Games Cookbook represents a significant stride towards mainstreaming serious games as valuable tools for education, engagement, and research. As society grapples with complex challenges, the integration of gaming methodologies offers a dynamic and interactive approach to address pressing issues and foster deeper understanding among individuals.
A link to the Cookbook is available here: https://publishing.warwick.ac.uk/index.php/uwp/catalog/book/31
