So the focus of one of my current classes (Educ 688) is to explore games and gaming with an eye toward using the elements of games for educational purposes.
At this point my experience with games is limited to a brief foray into the original. No I have not even beaten that game yet! I have been asked to consider the following: why the game interests me; what has motivated me to continue playing; and what I like or don't like about the game.
The why behind my playing this game is easy. I began to play as a form of social interaction with my peers when Mario first came out on Nintendo. We spent long hours playing/watching others play along; eating; talking and generally having a good time. When my boys wanted a game system, I was familiar with the content of this game and knew that it woul be appropriate for them. And as a bonus, I could actually play it with them with a modicum of skill.
Thinking about why the game is engaging, I believe because it builds in difficulty as players develop skills and information about the game. I also think that the fact that 'secret' tricks, passages/routes and so on can be accessed - make the player feel skilled and part of an exclusive club. The main reasons that I like the game include the fact that the graphics are pleasing and the premise of the game is understandable as well. There is not anything that I really dislike about the game.
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