'Let's Play'
A project about play, game design and social engagement.
A project about play, game design and social engagement.
Objective of the Project
The objective of this project was to reintroduce board games as a way to socialise for people aged 18 and upwards. Whilst also removing stigma surrounding board games, further more to show people games can be played out of national holidays and make them aware of other games available on the market than the ‘classics’. As an answer to this objective a game and a website were produced.The Game - Stay on track
Why should a game be used to promote gaming? It was the best way to engage potential people’s interest without lecturing them. As for the design of the game and why it is the way it is? A combination of several factors and targets to achieve were discovered throughout the research and development stages. It was crucial to achieve these targets for game success: Smart use of environment.
Engaging enough for replay, but quick to learn.
Creates interest in board games.
Personalisation and Customisability
So how is the game played? The game is played ideally in the pub environment, but can be played anywhere. The beer mats (tiles) provided in the pack is the playing board and the players drink (or tokens), their playing piece. Stay on track is for 2 to 5 players ideally, but more players are possible.
Players are essentially trying to move from their start tile to end tile before the deck of tiles runs out. With several tie breakers there is always a defined winner. The game uses a push your luck mechanic, with players wanting to out wait their opponents but not miss their opportunity.
The Website
Stay on Track is only part the story. So the player enjoys the game and then wants to learn more. Typically they would struggle to discover new information. Stay on Track comes with a tile that has a QR code and URL which links to a website. This website offers the user:
Board game news.
Recommended games.
Location of local game store.
Create custom, personal tiles sets.
Discover other game types and rule sets.
A forum for users to suggest their own game types and rule sets.
Other Applications
Stay on Track was designed to best fit for the pub environment, but the game does have other applications. Giving the user the chance to create custom and personal tiles means that the game does not have to be played in the pub environment with the drink imagery.
Organisations could also use the game to promote their message, branding or teachings. Organisations such as Business’, Charities and Schools. A simple change in the images and messages, and the game has a new meaning.
