Output details

Encleverment Experiment

Commissioned by Blitz Games / Microsoft

Working with leading independent games studio, Blitz Games, Stockton was commissioned by Microsoft to deliver an interactive product for the Xbox 360 digital platform aimed at families. Having previously focused on delivering interactive entertainment products for specific audiences of individuals, the challenge of designing and developing a product for a broad spectrum of ages was a chance to further research age-agnostic ludic mechanics. Working closely with focus groups and a range of age-specific games’ designers for a wide range of both digital and traditional board games, Stockton sought commonalities. He discovered a high propensity toward learning when families play together, as is reflected in counting and arithmetic for card games, non-verbal communication and art with products such as Pictionary, and general knowledge with games such as Trivial Pursuit. In response, Stockton developed the Encleverment Experiment, a team based experience which allowed younger members to learn while encouraging older members to teach and share knowledge. The product was delivered for the Microsoft Xbox, a machine which was traditionally used by a specific gender and age group in a purely solitary manner. The Encleverment Experiment succeeded in providing an experience which encourages interaction and play for families, as well as knowledge transfer and learning, in a fun environment. Applying ludic mechanics to the process of learning created an inclusive environment of play, delivered in a modular manner which adapts to all ages, skill and ability levels, and offering a new approach to knowledge acquisition and learning.