Gameful - 'full of games'
The intent of this site is to gather and discuss research addressing the theoretical foundations of games, play and fun. Our objective being to develop both theoretical and practical understandings of games in business and the business of games. We think that theory is necessary in order to establish a deep understanding of the business of games for aspiring designers, entrepreneurs, managers, and industry specialists. We also want to apply game thinking, game theories and game features to new business contexts. That is, to use the ideas surrounding games, play and fun for both the design of and interpretation of engaging digital innovations.
The approach taken is to read, summarise and assimilate theory and literature; acknowledging and utilising the work of contemporary practitioners and researchers in the literature and highlight the core canon of this burgeoning field. We will review the philosophy and theories of games and play, critique the claims of gamification, and employ principles from game design. We expect to draw on concepts and ideas from many areas including: cultural theory, the sociology of play, design and game thinking, economics and behavioural economics, game theory and decision science, video and computer game design.
The goal is to become familiar with the language of games and game design in order to develop for ourselves, new game-like features in new service and product designs. We anticipate creating/generating/building ideas to prototype level using storyboards, mock-ups, paper prototyping or a digital platform of our own choice. Along the way we will utilise, evaluate and contribute to current frameworks and tools; even develop or synthesise new approaches for game and gameful development, with an emphasis on the digital domain.
