Gamification — 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 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.

Ercan Altuğ Yılmaz, Gamification, TOY FrameworkDave EngAugust 10, 2025gamification framework toy, ercan altuğ Yilmaz, behavioral design, gamification, game-based learning, kevin werbach, d6, toy frameworkComment