Time:
- Plan: 10 min
- Implement: 30 min
Type(s) of Essential(s):
Design
Critical Review
Prerequisite
- None
Overview
This activity gives learners exposure to different types of games, game mechanics, rules, and gameplay experiences.
Our Essentials in this Activity
Learners have first-hand experience of understanding design components of a game - game mechanics, rules, and goals - from playing different types of games. By playing multiple board games, learners enhance their skills and knowledge of describing gameplay experiences, gaining more understanding of what they do and do not like in games and identify value when reviewing games. Knowledge and skills from this activity will help learners articulate what does and does not work well when they are playing games, evaluate games, and create their game pitch.
Goals and Outcomes
Goal: Learners engage in gameplay and experience a variety of games.
Outcomes: Learners critically review board and card games and become more perceptive about various components of games (e.g. rules, mechanics) and the player’s experience.
Materials
Game examples include UNO, Spyfall, Sleeping Queens, In a Pickle, Spot It, Apples to Apples, Magic Labyrinth, Connect 4, Happy Salmon, Code Names, Shifty-Eyed Spy, and card games.
Preparation
Select games that require a minimum of two players. Make sure there are enough games to accommodate the amount of learners and all the educators are familiar with the games selected or willing to learn about gameplay and rules from the learners.
Implementation and Completion
Put one or two games on a table. If there are couches or another type of relaxed space at your program, place games in those areas as well. Set up games so they are ready to be played (this also makes it an easy entry experience for the learner). As the learners enter the space, invite them to play one of the games. Engage in multiple rounds of gameplay with them.
Note: We encourage educators to play games with learners. This helps build rapport and relationships.