There’s a really interesting dialog going on right now about integrating gaming dynamics and principles into into traditionally non-gaming experiences.
What if we could inject a little joy and surprise into everyday or otherwise mundane tasks?
The above TED Talk does a good job of outlining a few of these principles and giving examples.
Right before seeing this video I coincidentally bought an iPhone to-do list app that uses the RPG metaphor of leveling-up your character as you complete tasks. I’m not a to-do list app type of guy, but I was so impressed with the execution that I decided to check it out.
Weeks later I’ve found myself consistently interacting with the app every day - though I’m still only a Level 2 Stooping Dwarven Nerd-Do-Well.
Not only am I having fun with this app, but I’m actually accomplishing more things as well.
Very interested to see where this new thread takes things.
Here’s another article worth checking out: Friction Can Be a Good Thing: The Role of Gaming Dynamics in User Experience
And here’s the complete list of game dynamics referenced in the TED video (via @stephenanderson): SCVNGR’s Secret Game Mechanics Playdeck