When designing a game, whether it’s a board game or a mobile game, there are various elements that should be considered. These elements are closely related to gameplay, game mechanics, and mechanisms.

For board games, they include the concept, context, components, mechanics, and mechanisms. Concept refers to the game’s style and rules, while context refers to the theme and story. Components include the game’s bits and pieces, while mechanics and mechanisms refer to the game system’s activation and the actions players wish to do in the game, respectively.

For mobile educational games, the focus is on the features available to the players and how they can interact with the game. These games typically have a narrative portion and require specific actions from the player to progress. To start playing, users must register and select a character. The character then presents a mission to complete, and players receive points or rewards upon completion.

Each game has a unique approach, requiring designers to ideate, prototype, test, and iterate to perfect the game. To design a successful educational game, designers must consider the “Call for adventure” and why a player would choose their game. They must also anticipate possible refusals to play and support players to leave their comfort zones and enter the game levels. Designers must view the game from multiple angles and use different frameworks for inspiration, such as LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, Agile, Cynefin, Business models, and Eurogames. The ultimate goal is to define the game’s purpose and start ideating.

In The Game Hub, you can find playful games in different categories.