Serious games can be seen as a hybrid between a video game and a simulation. The defining characteristic that sets them apart from simulations and video game is that serious games are always designed to deliver a message or information to their players. Furthermore, where a simulation typically prioritises accuracy over fun-factor, a serious game may often simplify or abstract dynamics or interactions, if doing so will help to clarify the intended message or information.
Serious games can be delivered on virtually any hardware platform. Popular platforms include handheld gaming devices which benefit from their portability, and web-based PC delivery which benefits from a virtually universal market.
Serious games can be used in two typical ways – to augment existing training or education methods, or as an engaging method of delivering information.
When used as a training aid, serious games play a similar role to simulations, with two key differences. Firstly, the priority is the delivery of content rather than the accuracy of dynamics. This is because serious games generally do not need an accurate simulation of real-world events in order to effectively convey their message or information. Secondly, where appropriate, the presentation of a serious game may be stylised rather than realistic. This has the immediate benefit of reducing production costs, but can also result in increased engagement and a more focused delivery of core content.
When used purely to deliver information, serious games generally present players with an interactive model that they can experiment with in order to learn about a system, product or place.
An example of this is a network planning tool, where administrators can add or remove components from a computer network and immediately see the effects on bandwidth, storage capacity and risk management. Another example is an environmental management game demonstrating the effects of business or government choices on the environment. These are powerful ways in which to convey a message, because users can interact with a system and get immediate feedback on the results of their actions.
The creation of a serious game begins by deciding upon the message or information to be delivered to players. This becomes the core of the game’s design.
The game’s design then begins with an investigation into which dynamics must be modelled, and whether those dynamics should be realistically simulated or appropriately stylised in order to best deliver that message. The key here is to ensure clarity of the message and simple, intuitive user interaction. In order to ensure that the right message is delivered we always seek to work with relevant subject matter experts.
Implementation of the design is iterative, and involves extensive consultation with both the subject matter experts who contributed during the initial design process and users of the system. This allows us to maximise both the clarity of the delivered message and user engagement and satisfaction.