Videogames as a Communicative Tool for Raising Awareness of Humanitarian Crises: Exploratory Study On Itch.io

This document examines the potential of video games as a tool to improve responses to humanitarian crises. The authors analyze ten independent video games related to humanitarian crises, exploring their purpose, ludonarrative components, and elements of adaptive interaction. The study reveals that 50% of the games focus on entertainment, 40% are educational, and one game centers on decision-making and the efficient management of a refugee camp. The authors argue that video games can serve as valuable tools for education, training, and information dissemination in the context of humanitarian crises. The document emphasizes the capacity of video games to engage and educate audiences on the complexities of humanitarian issues, such as refugee crises and natural disasters. It proposes that video games offer a distinctive and immersive mode of learning, facilitating the development of competencies and knowledge within a safe and regulated framework. Furthermore, the document highlights the relevance of adaptive interaction mechanisms in video games, which foster the enhancement of analytical and decision-making skills. In summary, the analysis suggests that video games hold significant potential as strategic tools to optimize responses to humanitarian emergencies. Therefore, the authors advocate for further research and development in this area, underscoring the need for games focused on education and decision-making.