Standing on the shoulders of giants

We use established principles to achieve the best learning outcomes with our games and simulations. We use approaches from a wide range of fields; from psychology to instruction design and theories of fun and engagement.

The concepts we use when designing our games and simulations are similar in nature to the most successful games, training and education programmes. Our approach entails:

Creating Engaging Environments:

From the moment the student sits at a console, PlayGen games look and feel like popular console games. By purposely mimicking the curiosity-driven challenges and control techniques found in mainstream market games, the player’s attention is focused on the reactions necessary to succeed. Once play begins, the subject is transported to a virtual world, picking up the how-to’s by using in-game tutorials that allow play to continue. PlayGen’s staff consists of established writers and artists which strive to create fresh storylines with drama, humour and memorable characters, fully drawing the player into the fictional game world.

Providing Competitive Learning:

Players compete against one another, pushing their skill level in order to overcome obstacles and opponents. In competitive learning games, the better the player’s score, the better the comprehension level of the training.

Providing Motivational Tools:

PlayGen games are fun and interesting, using the virtual environment and challenges to extend the student’s desire to learn the subject matter. Mastery of subject matter will result in winning the game, motivating the player to truly comprehend the subject.

Rewarding Achievement:

Players are rewarded when they achieve a certain number of points and become the “winner,” meaning that they have achieved the goals and objectives for that particular lesson or game. Gaining and understanding new skills is a reward accomplished as different levels are reached within the game.

Aiding Comprehension:

Evaluations take place throughout the levels of the game, assessing comprehension of the subject. The reports generated highlight problem areas that are then replayed and explained within the game through the use of informative agents and plot twists. Problems are discussed between the tutor and the player, prompting questions and answers that in turn boost comprehension.

Ensuring Flexible Integration:

PlayGen games can be readily integrated into more traditional training or psychometric programs, combining the power of gaming with existing teaching methods. The games can be used in multiple modes, such as guided training sessions, group play and self-directed learning.

Providing Continuous Assessment:

PlayGen builds comprehensive performance monitoring for its games, as well as real time learning objective assessment and management. Our assessment programs show conclusively that comprehension has occurred and that the player understands and can recall the lesson material.

Delivering Comprehensive Output:

We provide during action and after action review – automatically generating customised reports for both the player and the facilitator. Workbooks and revision guides can be provided for individuals based on their skills.

PlayGen games and simulations have the same ability as the most popular computer and console games to emotionally transport the player into the virtual world, where adventure awaits. Learning and measuring occurs whilst the user is having fun or is fully immersed in the experience. Progress checkpoints help with knowledge transfer and better assessment of behaviour and knowledge.