Connecting Gen-Z with Local Non-Profits through Interactive Game Design

Overview

Eutopia is a game designed to engage Gen Z in social change by connecting them with community organizations. The project combines digital and physical gameplay, encouraging players to address societal issues through resource management and collaboration.

Research and Findings

• Gen Z Engagement: Research revealed that Gen Z values authentic engagement and practical action over superficial initiatives. The project’s design reflects this by providing tangible pathways for players to contribute to real-world causes.

• Community Impact: Insights indicated a strong desire among players to see the direct impact of their actions, leading to features that track and display community contributions and progress.

Stakeholder Involvement & Service Design

• Nonprofit Collaboration: Involved actual nonprofits as stakeholders to ensure the game's relevance and effectiveness in promoting social causes. The collaboration included interviews and feedback sessions to align the game’s objectives with the nonprofits' missions.

• Gen Z Players: Engaged Gen Z participants in the testing phase, focusing on both Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) aspects. This service design approach helped tailor the game to meet the needs of both players and organizations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the project's impact.

Key Features

• Interactive Gameplay: Players collaborate to allocate resources and support community organizations, building a utopian society.

• Visual and Narrative Design: The game uses AR to visualize the impact of players' actions, creating a compelling and immersive experience.

• Design Choices: The design incorporates vibrant colors and dynamic visuals to appeal to Gen Z's aesthetic preferences, enhancing engagement and user experience.