Experience Points Podcast

Episode 147 Shaun McMillan on Turning Lectures into Games

In this episode of Experience Points, host Dave Eng interviews educational game designer Shaun McMillan about transforming traditional lectures into interactive, game-like experiences. Shaun shares his framework for designing lectures around a single compelling multiple-choice scenario, enabling students to engage deeply with content by making critical decisions. He discusses integrating game mechanics such as voting, uncertainty, and narrative outcomes to enhance didactic instruction. The episode also explores Shaun’s classroom megagame ALLIANCE, a geopolitical simulation for up to 100 players. Shaun emphasizes modular design, accessibility, and the power of storytelling in creating immersive, educational experiences. Learn more at BestClassEver.org.

Shaun McMillan, Gamification, Megagame, SimulationDave EngSeptember 21, 2025shaun mcmillan, gamification, megagame, simulation, education, storytelling, lecture, scenario, engagementComment

Episode 146 AP Table Talk: Take That

In this episode of AP Table Talk, Brian and Dave dig into the “Take That” game mechanic. From classics like UNO, Sorry!, and Risk to modern favorites like Munchkin, Blood Rage, and King of Tokyo: Duel, they explore how denial, betrayal, and revenge fuel tension, drama, and unforgettable tabletop stories.

Episode 145 Types of Games

Today, we’re diving into something that might seem simple on the surface, but as it turns out, it's anything but. In this episode, we’re going to be talking about game types, and not just your usual categories like board games or video games. We’re digging deeper: into the psychology, the structure, and the social impact of how we play. So let’s get ready to explore the worlds of competitive, cooperative, and hybrid games—and why defining different game types isn’t nearly as straightforward as it sounds.

classification, types, GamesDave EngAugust 24, 2025classification, types, competitive, cooperative, hybrid, interaction, engagementComment

Episode 144 Ercan Altug Yilmaz Gamification in Action The TOY Framework

In this episode, Dave Eng interviews Ercan Altuğ Yilmaz, a leading gamification expert and creator of the TOY Framework—an evolution of existing models like Werbach’s D6 and Octalysis. Drawing from over a decade of experience and 100+ projects, Yilmaz explains how TOY’s ten-step structure blends theory with practical business needs, emphasizing behavior change beyond badges and rewards. He discusses the importance of human- and company-centric objectives, his use of 118 gamification cards, and the role of nudges in organizational settings. The episode also explores balancing academic theory with real-world application in gamified learning.

Episode 143 Games as Mediums for Interactions

In today’s episode, we’re diving into how games function as mediums for interaction: as art, as social spaces, and as powerful tools for learning. We’ll explore everything from virtual worlds to tabletop classics and even some of the more unexpected ways games impact real life.

games, interaction, feedbackDave EngJuly 27, 2025interaction, space, social, experience, gamesComment

Episode 142 Game Goals vs Learning Outcomes

We all know games are fun, that’s why we play them. But when we use games for education, training, or serious learning, the challenge is making sure players aren’t just playing—they’re actually learning. In this episode, we’ll explore how learning objectives and game goals overlap, how serious games are designed for impact, and how we measure success beyond just ‘winning.’ So, buckle up—because today, we’re unlocking the next level of game-based learning!

learning outcomes, learning objectives, game goalsDave EngJuly 13, 2025goals, outcomes, learning, games, design, objectivesComment

Episode 141 AP Table Talk: Rock-Paper-Scissors

In this episode of AP Table Talk, Brian and Dave dive deep into the timeless “rock-paper-scissors” (RPS) game mechanic. They explore its origins, its non-transitive nature, and how it shows up in everything from Magic: The Gathering to StarCraft and Skull King. From nostalgic toys like Battle Beasts to modern strategy in X-Wing Miniatures, the duo reflects on how RPS mechanics fuel tension, balance, and bluffing. Wrapping things up with a spirited pro/con debate, they explore whether RPS is genius design or just a flashy mini-game. Bonus round? Think predator-prey games and wasabi metaphors. Game on!

Episode 140 Randy O'Connor on Designing Through Constraints

In this episode of Experience Points, Dave Eng welcomes game designer, artist, and educator Randy O’Connor to explore the crucial role of constraints in game design and learning. From limited resources to time pressure, constraints shape player experiences and enhance engagement. Randy shares insights on how friction creates meaningful challenges, how platform limitations influence design choices, and why designing for “not doing” can be just as impactful as action. Through examples like This War of Mine, Frostpunk, and Hades, they discuss how well-crafted restrictions foster creativity, strategy, and deeper learning.

Episode 139 Janna Kellinger on Designing Games in Learning Management Systems

In this episode of Experience Points, Dr. Janna Kellinger shares her journey from using one-shot games in high school English classes to designing fully game-based courses at UMass Boston. She discusses her book Up Your Teaching Game and how educators can design story-driven curricular games. Janna explains how she transforms Learning Management Systems (LMS) into game engines, embedding narratives and feedback loops to drive engagement. She highlights her Coding for Non-Coders course, where students learn to code to stop tech thieves. Tune in to discover how game mechanics can revolutionize online learning and student motivation.

Janna Kellinger, LMSDave EngJune 1, 2025Janna Kellinger, gamification, LMS, storytelling, engagement, coding, educationComment

Episode 138 Elena Rabkina on Gamified Media Literacy

In this episode of Experience Points, host Dave Eng interviews interactive artist and game designer Elena Rabkina on the power of gamification in media literacy. Elena shares her journey from intellectual gaming in Belarus to designing impactful games like Media Mayhem, which teaches players how news is created, manipulated, and consumed. She discusses how game-based education fosters critical thinking, especially in an era of misinformation and AI-generated content. Elena envisions media literacy as an essential skill and emphasizes the role of games in shaping informed, discerning citizens.

Episode 137 AP Table Talk: Mega Topic: End Game

In this special End Game Mega Episode of AP Table Talk, hosts Brian and Dave Eng break down six key mechanics that define how board games conclude. They explore Elapsed Real-Time Ending, where a timer dictates the game's duration; Sudden Death Ending, where a triggering event abruptly ends play; and Finale Ending, where a mini game determines the winner. They also cover End Game Bonuses, where players earn additional points based on specific conditions, Hidden Victory Points, where scores remain secret until the end, and Highest-Lowest Scoring, where a player’s lowest category determines their final score.

Episode 136 Outcomes Focused Games-Based Learning

In this episode, we’ll explore the practical applications of GBL, key design principles, and strategies for motivating learners. Now, let’s explore the potential of games to create dynamic, outcome-focused learning experiences.

learning outcomesDave EngApril 20, 2025learning, engagement, outcomes, mechanics, feedback, autonomyComment

Episode 135 Ryan Schaaf on Digital Games-Based Learning

In this episode of Experience Points, host Dave Eng interviews Dr. Ryan Schaaf, an award-winning professor and author, about the transformative role of digital games-based learning in education. Dr. Schaaf shares his journey as a gamer and educator, highlighting how games foster skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Ryan Schaff, Digital Games-Based LearnDave EngApril 6, 2025Ryan Schaff, gamification, education, innovation, engagement, technology, learningComment

Episode 134 What are Educational Games?

In this episode, we’re unpacking the concept of educational games. What are they? How do they differ from other types of games? And how can they be leveraged effectively in games-based learning?

educational gamesDave EngMarch 23, 2025educational games, learning, games-based, serious, modalities, disciplinesComment

Episode 133 AP Table Talk: Multi-Use Cards

In this episode of AP Table Talk, hosts Brian Eng and Dave Eng explore the versatile world of Multi-Use Cards in board games. They dive into defining the mechanic, discussing how it forces players to make meaningful trade-offs by using cards for one of several possible actions. Highlighting games like Risk: Star Wars Edition, Dune: Imperium, and Bohnanza, they unpack how Multi-Use Cards create strategic depth, add replayability, and integrate into various game themes. Whether you're new to this mechanic or a seasoned gamer, this episode offers valuable insights and plenty of game recommendations!

game mechanic, AP Table TalkDave EngMarch 9, 2025game mechanic, multi-use cards, strategy, choices, resources, AP Table TalkComment

Episode 132 Rob Alvarez on Get Started in Gamification

In this episode of Experience Points by University XP, host Dave Eng welcomes gamification expert Rob Alvarez to discuss gamification and games-based solutions. Rob, known as Professor Game, shares his journey into gamification, emphasizing the importance of meaningful learning experiences tailored to specific audiences. They discuss key principles for creating engaging learning experiences and strategies for overcoming challenges like scope creep and mindset barriers. Rob also introduces his free gamification course and resources available on www.professorgame.com. The episode encourages listeners to explore gamification's potential in education and beyond.

Rob Alvarez, Professor GameDave EngFebruary 23, 2025Rob Alvarez, Professor Game, gamification, engagement, learning, education, workshops, consultingComment

Episode 131 What is a Game?

In this episode we’ll explore a fundamental yet complex question. What exactly is a game? From the nostalgic first games we played as kids to the immersive experiences we dive into today, games have always been a source of joy, challenge, and connection. But defining what a game truly is? That’s a whole different challenge.

gamesDave EngFebruary 9, 2025game, play, constraints, interaction, integrity, challenges, immersionComment

Episode 130 Christopher Stuart on Applied TTPRGs

In this episode of Experience Points, Dr. Christopher Stuart, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies at UNC Wilmington, delves into the transformative role of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) in education and facilitation. Christopher shares insights from his research on game dynamics, player engagement, and the collaborative art of facilitation. He discusses how TTRPGs foster systems thinking, play, and failure as essential learning tools. Reflecting on his academic journey, Christopher explores how gaming language and frameworks can create inclusive, engaging classroom experiences. He also highlights the impact of design, accessibility, and playful pedagogy on student engagement.

Christopher StuartDave EngJanuary 26, 2025TTRPG, facilitation, playfulness, collaboration, pedagogy, engagement, design, communication, christopher stuartComment

Episode 129 Scott Nicholson on EscapeIF

In this episode of Experience Points, host Dave Eng interviews Dr. Scott Nicholson, professor and director of the Game Design and Development Program at Wilfrid Laurier University. Dr. Nicholson discusses EscapeIF, a system designed for low-resource classrooms to integrate storytelling and interactive fiction into education. He explains how EscapeIF emphasizes engaging narratives and problem-solving without relying on expensive resources, using tools like chalkboards and found objects. The episode explores the challenges of adapting educational games for diverse settings and highlights the importance of reflection in learning. Resources, including free games and guides, are available at EscapeIF.com.

scott nicholson, EscapeIFDave EngJanuary 12, 2025scott nicholson, EscapeIF, gamification, storytelling, education, reflection, accessibilityComment

Episode 128 Thorsten Kodalle on Strategic Wargaming

In this episode of Experience Points by University XP, host Dave Eng speaks with Thorsten Kodalle, head of Innovation Laboratory at the Bundeswehr Command and Staff College and an expert in Strategic Wargaming, Gamification, and Serious Games. Thorsten shares insights into integrating Gamification into Strategic Thinking, using board games like Scythe as teaching tools in seminars. He emphasizes the importance of considering DIME (Diplomacy, Information, Military, Economics) in strategic wargaming, and discusses how cultural factors influence military strategy. Thorsten also delves into serious game design, balancing entertainment with educational goals, and shares examples like the cyber card game adapted for crisis management training. The episode highlights the necessity of understanding the purpose of games and aligning game mechanics with educational objectives. Thorsten shares resources for further exploration, emphasizing LinkedIn and his YouTube channel.

thorsten kodalle, serious gamesDave EngDecember 29, 2024thorsten kodalle, gamification, strategy, dime, scythe, serious gamesComment