April 1, 2023
Post by:
Alex Kehr
Jesse Schell, a renowned game designer and Carnegie Mellon University professor, offered a glimpse into the future of gaming in his 2010 DICE Summit talk. He predicted that games would become deeply integrated into our daily lives, blurring the lines between the virtual and real worlds. Our product, Superlocal, is a location-based social network and game that brings Schell's predictions to life by providing users with an immersive and engaging experience that intertwines gaming elements with their everyday activities. In this post, we will explore how Superlocal exemplifies Schell's key ideas and sets the stage for the future of gaming.
Superlocal incorporates Schell's prediction of gamifying our lives through points, badges, and achievements. Users earn coins, collect badges, and acquire Mayorships as they explore their surroundings and interact with their environment. This system of rewards keeps users engaged and motivated, fostering a sense of accomplishment and progress as they strive to become a Superlocal in multiple cities.
Although not explicitly an AR game, Superlocal shares Schell's vision of merging games with our physical environment. By using location-based check-ins, Superlocal encourages users to explore their surroundings and discover new places. This integration of real-world locations into the gaming experience enhances the sense of immersion and makes the game more interactive and engaging.
Superlocal aligns with Schell's prediction of games being integrated into everyday objects and smart devices. As users interact with their environment through check-ins, they can leverage their smartphones and other connected devices to engage with the game. This seamless integration of technology enables a smooth, uninterrupted gaming experience that fits naturally into users' daily lives.
Superlocal embodies Schell's prediction of the rise of social gaming and connectivity. The platform combines social networking with gaming elements, allowing users to connect with friends, compete with other players, and share their progress. This social aspect adds an extra layer of motivation and excitement to the game, blurring the lines between gaming and social interaction.
Although not directly mentioned in the summary, Superlocal has the potential to incorporate Schell's vision of advergaming and branded content. Businesses can sponsor specific locations, offer in-game rewards, or even create their own branded badges for users to collect. This would provide an opportunity for brands to engage with consumers in a more interactive and entertaining way.
Superlocal exemplifies Jesse Schell's predictions of how games will invade real life by seamlessly integrating gaming elements into users' everyday activities and social interactions. By combining location-based check-ins, gamification, and social networking, Superlocal creates an immersive, engaging experience that blurs the lines between gaming and reality. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative platforms like Superlocal that push the boundaries of what gaming can be and how it can shape our lives.
