simulation — Experience Points Podcast

Today we're diving into something that sits at the intersection of education, game design, and critical thinking: matrix games. If you've ever wished there was a way to teach complex topics - military strategy, geopolitics, organizational behavior, or crisis response - without expensive simulations or thick stacks of rulebooks, you're going to want to stick around and learn more about Matrix Games. That’s because they are deceptively simple, surprisingly powerful, and arguably one of the most flexible tools in the applied learning toolkit. Now, let's get into it.

Matrix Games, Argumentation, FacilitationDave EngJuly 26, 2026matrix games, argumentation, facilitation, narrative, critical thinking, simulation, pedagogyComment

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