Digital Game-Based Heritage Education: Analyzing the Potential of Heritage-Based Video Games

Video games have emerged as a promising tool for enhancing engagement with cultural heritage. However, there is limited knowledge about how existing games can effectively fulfill this role. This study compiled and analyzed 100 video games based on cultural heritage by adapting an existing framework...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inEducation sciences Vol. 14; no. 4; p. 396
Main Authors Camuñas-García, Daniel, Cáceres-Reche, María Pilar, Cambil-Hernández, María de la Encarnación, Lorenzo-Martín, Manuel Enrique
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Basel MDPI AG 01.04.2024
Subjects
Audiences
Authenticity
Collaboration
Computer & video games
Cultural Background
Cultural Centers
Cultural Context
Cultural heritage
Cultural identity
Cultural Maintenance
Culture
digital game-based learning
Education
Educational Games
Educational objectives
Game Based Learning
gamification
Heritage Education
Intergroup Education
Methods
Museums
Preservation
Spain
Tourism
Traditions
Video Games
Spain
Online AccessGet full text

Cover

More Information
Summary:Video games have emerged as a promising tool for enhancing engagement with cultural heritage. However, there is limited knowledge about how existing games can effectively fulfill this role. This study compiled and analyzed 100 video games based on cultural heritage by adapting an existing framework that includes 10 game attributes for a comparative statistical analysis of the games’ engagement features. These features include narrative-driven gameplay, information capsules, task-driven learning, ease of play, identity-driven content, open-world exploration, people-centered perspectives, meaningfulness, simulation, and verisimilitude. The analysis revealed that while the majority of games adhered to most of the recommended attributes, features such as task-driven learning, open-world exploration, and simulation were either uncommon or rare. These findings highlight a significant opportunity to develop games that incorporate these underrepresented features, thereby providing more immersive and engaging experiences in heritage education. Furthermore, the study offers a systematic overview of existing games that represent cultural heritage, serving as a valuable resource for developers, designers, and educators in this field.
ISSN:2227-7102
2227-7102
DOI:10.3390/educsci14040396