Gamification, games and play

Gamification, games and play

Gamification, games and play

Agnessa Spanellis

Originally Published Here

Summary

Gamification is often misunderstood because it overlaps with related concepts like serious games, play, and gameful or playful design. Originally defined as adding game elements to non-game contexts, its interpretation has evolved to sometimes include full game experiences. Examples show how gamification can range from simple performance dashboards to narrative-rich systems that still embed gameplay within real-world tasks. Serious games differ by offering full game environments with educational or utilitarian goals. Additional concepts—serious repurposing, modding, and distinctions between play, playful design, and game theory—highlight the complexity and fluid boundaries within game-related practices. Definitions continue to evolve as practice grows.

Reference

Spanellis, A. (n.d.). Gamification, games and play. GST Lab. https://gst-lab.business-school.ed.ac.uk/news/gamification-games-and-play