Game Factors and Game-Based Learning Design Model

TLDR

Designing useful digital game‑based learning is challenging, especially when target genres differ from those studied in prior research. This study presents macrodesign concepts that elucidate 11 crucial game‑design factors. The authors define each factor, analyze their interrelations, and construct a game‑based learning design model, validated by two application examples. The model assists educational game designers in creating engaging games.

Abstract

How to design useful digital game-based learning is a topic worthy of discussion. Past research focused on specific game genres design, but it is difficult to use when the target game genre differs from the default genres used in the research. This study presents macrodesign concepts that elucidates 11 crucial game-design factors, including game goals, game mechanism, game fantasy, game value, interaction, freedom, narrative, sensation, challenges, sociality, and mystery. We clearly define each factor and analyze the relationships among the 11 factors to construct a game-based learning design model. Two application examples are analyzed to verify the usability of the model and the performance of these factors. It can assist educational game designers in developing interesting games.