You probably know our reasonably extensive portfolio of games, most recently the (multi award-winning) mission-on website which is crammed with games for kids. Research we did leading into that website suggested that kids like activities (not just online activities, but any game) that allowed them to be creative; to master a skill; that gave them a sense of exhilaration; and that bonded them with another person. We have taken that research on board as we have developed all the games on that website (which is why it is so popular).

Yesterday at Webstock, Jane McGonigal said that we adults crave: satisfying work; to feel we are good at something; time with the people we like; and the chance to be part of something bigger. Turns out to be not that different to what little kids want. Jane also suggested that adults can get all those things through gaming. In a game you can feel satisfied at getting somewhere; mastering a skill, earning points or winning; you can play with your friends, or other like minded people; and you can be part of a mission, or achieving some overall journey or quest. All human cravings satisfied in one experience!

Her suggestion is that you can use games, and all those factors that make them appealing,  to do greater things like redesign the future (as in Superstruct) get active (as in the Lost Ring) or enjoy the invigoration of dancing with your friends (as in Top Secret Dance Off). I think games are generally underused by marketers and museums, etc. as a great way to really connect with an audience. Jane's research helps explain why they work and gives us all reason to re-examine this genre as something of a far wider appeal than the spotty, lonely, geeks that might first spring to mind.  

We'd love to hear what games you are enjoying.