Serious Game Design for Societal Transformation

Serious game design is the systematic creation of interactive experiences that aim for outcomes beyond entertainment. In this field, games are tools for learning, behavioral change, or addressing real-world challenges, blending engaging gameplay with meaningful educational or social objectives. Participants in serious game design initiatives explore theory, hands-on practice, and prototyping, collaborating closely to develop solutions for contemporary issues.​

Format: Intensive, collaborative workshops or courses with theory, practice, and peer interactionAudience: Aspiring designers, educators, activists, and innovators interested in social change

Core Objectives

• Understand the underlying principles of serious game design for tangible social or educational impact.​

• Learn frameworks and methodologies for identifying and addressing community or societal challenges through games.

• Develop applied skills in core game mechanics, narrative crafting, and engaging player experiences.

• Prototype and test playable solutions addressing pressing real-world topics.

• Build a community of practice to extend learning and impact beyond the initial workshop or course.

Example Workshop Schedule

Day 1: Setting the Stage

• Arrival, participant introductions

• Workshop overview and collective goal-setting

• Group session: “Games That Changed the World”—exploring influential serious games

Day 2–3: Foundations & Research

• Lectures: What makes a game “serious”? Motivational design and impact​

• Analysis of case studies: reviewing existing serious games

• Group exercises: Identifying local or global challenges

• Methods for problem framing, stakeholder mapping, player persona development

Day 4–5: Design & Prototype

• Exploring mechanics that support learning and behavioral change

• Hands-on: Designing meaningful choices, narrative structures, and game rules

• Teamwork: Developing and refining core mechanics

• Peer feedback and collaborative iteration

Day 6: Testing & Iteration

• Rapid prototyping (analog and digital)

• Playtesting or usability testing, gathering feedback, iterating on game designs

• Workshop: Measuring impact, integrating assessment strategies

Day 7: Showcase & Community Building

• Presenting playable prototypes to peers and community members

• Group reflection, lessons learned, action planning for ongoing development

• Facilitated networking and community-of-practice planning

Principles of Serious Game Design

• Integrates educational or social content with compelling game mechanics

• Follows systematic instructional design (clear learning objectives, audience analysis, iterative testing)​

• Emphasizes immersive experiences, player feedback, and engagement

• Accounts for cognitive, emotional, and social aspects of learners

• Encourages collaboration both in creation and play

Outcomes & Impact

For Participants

• Mastery of serious game design tools and strategies

• Playable prototypes addressing chosen real-world challenges

• An expanded network of like-minded changemakers

• A clear action plan for ongoing development

For Communities

• Greater awareness of games as agents for positive change

• Locally relevant prototypes for further development

• Foundation for innovation and creative initiatives

Long-Term

• Ongoing annual or periodic serious games gatherings

• Development of open-access resources and shared platforms

• Growing global movement for social good through games