The notion that we can positively change behaviours through games and play has long been accepted by social change game creators. In this paper, the authors argue that social change games should meet social gaming. Thus, they study the characteristics of Facebook style games and of the platform itself.

The notion that we can positively change behaviours through games and play has long been accepted by social change game creators. In this paper, the authors argue that social change games should meet social gaming. Thus, they study the characteristics of Facebook style games and of the platform itself. They first discuss the positive traits of social gaming like the pro–social game mechanics, asynchronous multiplayer gameplay and the influence of the social infrastructure. Then, they consider how some of these factors can negatively impact social change games and show how these weaknesses can be addressed with careful forethought.

Ultimately, the authors propose a novel strategy for the design of social change games and highlight how we can move forward to develop them.

Social gaming for change: Facebook unleashed
by Jennifer R. Whitson and Claire Dormann.

First Monday, Volume 16, Number 10 - 3 October 2011