Abstract
Games have transcended their role as mere entertainment tools evolving into powerful mediums for driving meaningful change. Whether addressing environmental sustainability, health promotion, or educational engagement, these games for change hold immense transformative potential. But the successful design of this type of games requires consideration of several aspects (context, objectives, participants, game elements), and there are no structured methods available yet to support this process. To fill this gap, this paper introduces the Game Changing Matrix, a novel methodology developed to support the design of games aimed at meaningful transformation. Building on the frameworks of the MDA (Mechanics, Dynamics, and Aesthetics), and taking inspiration from the journey map method, the proposed methodology offers a structured, modular, practical tool for both experienced and novice designers. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the Game Changing Matrix helps align game elements with desired educational (or behavioural changes) outcomes, making it a valuable resource for tackling contemporary challenges in design education.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.21606/drslxd.2025.106
Citation
Vaccarella, L., Teverini, G.,and Recupero, A.(2025) Designing playful education: a game changing matrix to rule ‘em all, in Clemente, V., Gomes, G., Reis, M., Félix, S., Ala, S., Jones, D. (eds.), Learn X Design 2025, 22-24 September 2025, Aveiro, Portugal. https://doi.org/10.21606/drslxd.2025.106
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Conference Track
Full Paper
Designing playful education: a game changing matrix to rule ‘em all
Games have transcended their role as mere entertainment tools evolving into powerful mediums for driving meaningful change. Whether addressing environmental sustainability, health promotion, or educational engagement, these games for change hold immense transformative potential. But the successful design of this type of games requires consideration of several aspects (context, objectives, participants, game elements), and there are no structured methods available yet to support this process. To fill this gap, this paper introduces the Game Changing Matrix, a novel methodology developed to support the design of games aimed at meaningful transformation. Building on the frameworks of the MDA (Mechanics, Dynamics, and Aesthetics), and taking inspiration from the journey map method, the proposed methodology offers a structured, modular, practical tool for both experienced and novice designers. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the Game Changing Matrix helps align game elements with desired educational (or behavioural changes) outcomes, making it a valuable resource for tackling contemporary challenges in design education.