Games4ever

The Darkness: What you missed

2012-02-04T09:14:00.002+05:30

So you just finished the demo of The Darkness II. Pretty cool, right? But did you play the 2007 original? Do you know who you're playing as, or why you're eviscerating everyone around you with inky black tentacles? Do you know why it's such a surprise that The Darkness II is looking promising, or the pedigree it has to live up to? No? Maybe? Either way, GameZone is here to help.

What was The Darkness?

The Darkness was a first-person shooter for the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3, based on the Top Cow comic series of the same name. Although the comic property surely brought in an audience of fans, many were simply following developer Starbreeze Studios. The Darkness was their next game after The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay, quite possibly the greatest game ever based on a licensed property. That was a tough act to follow, and The Darkness didn't quite pull it off—but there were enough cool ideas in the game to make it worthwhile.

What was the game like?

The Darkness was not the best first-person shooter. In fact, the game was a total failure when it came to basic shooter mechanics. Aiming with the thumbstick was unnecessarily difficult, and the endless cascade of options to fine tune the controls seemed more lazy than helpful. Starbreeze also created an innovative physics/animation system for aiming around corners, but it often led to cheap deaths while your arms got tangled on the nearest obstructions.

None of that mattered, though, because you had giant killer tentacles to work with. The only thing standing between you and non-stop car-tossing, tentacle-whipping, black-hole-tossing madness was the Darkness's only weakness: light. Light sources were often a bigger obstacle than the enemies, so you spent a lot of time shooting out lights and skulking around in the dark.

When you weren't killing people, you'd explore via the New York City subway system. Much like the prisoners in Escape from Butcher Bay, the denizens of the subway offered up several sidequests. One particularly memorable one had you jumping out onto the subway tracks picking up change for an old lady.

The moment-to-moment gameplay wasn't the biggest highlight, but Starbreeze made up for it with the storytelling.

What's the story? SPOILERS AHEAD...

You are Jackie Estacado, a pasty-white, black metal-looking dude who spends his days working for the mob, and his nights with his girlfriend Jenny. This goes sour when the don of the mob tries to kill him on his 21^st birthday. Instead of dying, the Darkness awakens within Jackie. Imagine the devil on your shoulder combined with super powers and deadly tentacles, and it's no surprise that the Darkness leads Jackie on a quest for revenge.

But first, birthday cake! In one of the more poignant scenes in the game, Jackie comes home to see Jenny. They cuddle up on the couch together, but Jackie has killing to do, and it's left up to the player when he'll make his exit. In a game brimming with dark, brutal violence, Jenny is an incredibly sweet vacation. It's clear why Jackie is with her. On top of that, the real film To Kill a Mockingbird plays on the TV throughout the entire scene, and it never stops. You can actually opt to watch the entire movie if you're feeling ambitious.

From there, the revenge plot continues. The don takes Jackie's attitude personally, so this only enrages him to counterattack. He kidnaps Jenny and takes her to the orphanage where both Jackie and Jenny grew up. Poetry in motion, the scene unfolds as the Darkness restrains Jackie, forcing him to watch his only love's execution. “She was a burden, this is freedom,” the Darkness whispers to him. But Jackie has other plans, and with nothing left to lose, he puts a bullet down his throat.

Jackie wakes up in the Otherworld, the hellish home of the Darkness. There, he fights his way through a zombified version of World War I, eventually meeting his great-great grandfather, Anthony Estacado. He explains that the Darkness has been passed through the family, and that Jackie must face the Darkness in the underworld to defeat it.

To cut to the chase, though, let's just say Jackie's efforts don't quite pan out. Rather than defeating the Darkness, he allows it to become closer than ever, emerging back in the real world with more power, but an even deeper connection to the monster inside of him.

This added power (and a conveniently-timed solar eclipse), allows Jackie to make an assault on the don's mansion and finally get his revenge. A super-powered bloodbath ensues, and with the don dead, the Darkness consumes Jackie while he has a vision of Jenny one last time.

Where does The Darkness II pick up?

Two years later, apparently. Not only is Jackie still alive, but he has repressed the Darkness and taken the mob throne as the new don. Still haunted by visions of Jenny, he'll have to keep it together as a man named Victor Valente tries to steal the Darkness from him.

Is The Darkness II going to be good?

We won't be able to tell you for sure until our review, but the demo for the game is extremely promising. The combat seems to be the star of the show, with refined controls that allow the player to easily fight with two tentacles and two guns simultaneously.

It's also worth noting that The Darkness II isn't a Starbreeze game (they're busy working on Syndicate), instead, this sequel was made by Digital Extremes, whose previous game was Dark Sector. They're not the most promising source, to be frank, but the proof is in the pudding, and the demo shows a ton of potential.

It can go either way, really. The combat is undoubtedly better, but the story seems like it may lack the heart and soul of the original game. At the very least, don't go in expecting to cuddle up with a girlfriend and some public domain television.

Aliens: Colonial Marines multiplayer component a 'big deal' for Gearbox

2012-02-04T09:12:00.000+05:30

These days, it's almost equally important to have a robust multiplayer component, as it is to have an in-depth singleplayer mode. In some cases, it's more important. And for anyone who has played Borderlands, you'll know it's important to Gearbox as well.
Aliens: Colonial Marines is no different. In an interview with Sony, Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford revealed that the multiplayer for Aliens: Colonial Marines is "getting a huge amount of attention."
"Multiplayer is a big deal for us," he said. "It’s getting a huge amount of attention."

Pitchford didn't exactly say what type of multiplayer components we'd see from Aliens, although we already know it features dynamic drop in/out multiplayer. Hopefully we will soon though, as Pitchford announced they hope to get some people outside the studio to preview the multiplayer game "very soon".

Mahjong Solitaire - How to Play?

2012-02-04T09:05:00.000+05:30

Mahjong Solitaire combines different aspects together to deliver a game whose idea is to choose and remove matching chips from a board. As a player, you have to keep in mind that the chips are neither visible nor selectable and if you happen to select the wrong combination, you can be stranded. It is an exciting and challenging game and while this is the case, it is important to have an idea of how to play.

Start by selecting an appropriate Mahjong Solitaire layout. There are different types of layouts and ideally, some are harder than others. For new players, search for layouts that have small chips in the lower and upper corners.
There are instances when chips are wholly exposed and while this is the case, they cannot be selected. Therefore, make sure that you learn what can and cannot be selected. These are divided into different categories and by learning more about each and what it can deliver, you increase the chance of getting the most out of the game.
Always take time to weigh options though you receive multiple options. In this manner, you ensure that the chip selected in an ideal choice and this increases the ease of proceeding with the game. Taller ships should always be given priority and what is more, it is advisable to clear the lower tier ones than opting for the last one in a pile.
Work by reducing the stacks this aids in making the game much easier.
Rather than rushing, it is advisable to take your time however, keep in mind that there is a limit for each layout. In all instances, this is designed to give the player the chance to complete before the counter for bonus reaches zero. Every move should be made to count and as a beginner, you should not be worried about maximizing the score but rather becoming a better player. Once you achieve this end, it will become easy to compete with other players

By following these rules when playing Mahjong Solitaire, it becomes easier for the player to enjoy some of the benefits offered by the game. Some of these include the ability to improve the memory, excitement and the thrill. There are numerous online casinos that offer players the opportunity to enjoy this and while this is the case, it is advisable to tread carefully and weigh options in order to settle with the best. The more a player practices, the higher the chances of perfecting the art of gaming.

Mahjong Solitaire is ideal for people from different age groups and it is one of the best ways for keeping the brain sharp. By playing Mahjong Solitaire you can become a better thinker and planner.

Get Fun Games for Your Kids

2012-02-02T19:53:00.001+05:30

Kids need to be kept entertained and well distracted at all times. One way through which this is accomplished is by selecting fun games for them. Thanks to the availability of online games, it has become increasingly easy to find a variety of options to choose from. These have the ability of improving the mental and physical skills. More importantly, a large number of these come with great educational benefits. There are several benefits associated with these and some of these include the following.

• Improves the Thinking Process
In order to complete any of these games successfully, one has to think carefully and this is why they are considered an ideal choice for developing the thinking process. As kids play, they learn the art of developing a train of thought and sticking with it till they get a solution.

• Self Control
Because kids have to stop and think about the next line of action, this ensures that they develop self control. They learn how to think critically and carefully about every turn and this also increases attention span. It is also an ideal way of focusing attention since one has to react in accordance to the move made by the opponent.

• Social Skills
A large number of the fun games available also teach kids about the importance of developing social skills and this further increases the appeal associated with the same. While these are fun, it is ideal to note that there are rules that need to be followed as well and this teaches kids how to follow guidelines and makes them better people.

Wide Array of Games
By large, the variety of possible games available in this category is what increases the appeal associated with this. When searching for these, it is important to note that they are classed in accordance to what they have to offer and this makes it easy to select one that suits you. There are some top rates, popular, newest and random categories. Each category has its own selection of games and as a player or individual selecting some for your kids, always ensure that you end up with appropriate choices.

You can also choose between top action and top fighting games according to your preference. These are distinctively divided and this makes it easy for players to settle with those that offer the most benefits. Additionally, these are ranked in accordance to stars and this makes it easy for players to choose some of the popular fun games.

The Wii, Motion Technology and Gaming

2012-02-02T19:52:00.003+05:30

On November 19th 2006, Nintendo changed the face of gaming by introducing motion technology to games consoles. This allowed for a whole range of different games which required a completely new type of gameplay. Instead of bashing buttons on a normal controller, gamers were given a remote. The remote's movements are picked up by a sensor, allowing the Nintendo Wii to monitor and record the movements of the gamer. Virtual technology has been showcased in several futuristic films but the Wii was our first taste of motion sensor technology and a taster of things to come.
Before the Wii, no console had developed the technology to take advantage of motion sensors to monitor our movements.

The Wii signalled the start of a new type of gaming where your actions could be imitated on the television screen right in front of you. They used this type of technology to develop many simple games such as Wii Sports, which has many short activities such as tennis and bowling. Since then, Nintendo have introduced many more games that require you to use the remote in completely different ways compared to a standard controller.

The main difference with the Wii is that it can require you to be much more active. With standard controllers, you can sit down and not move for several hours whilst gaming. With the Wii, some people prefer standing up as this gives them the room to perform a particular movement. This type of motion technology has attracted different types of people with the elderly being reported as enjoying a bit of Wii action in retirement homes.

This level of popularity has not gone unnoticed, which is evident with Xbox and PS3 releasing their own versions of motion technology. Xbox released their Kinect sensor in November 2010, where no controller was used in conjunction with the system and their main motto was 'you are the controller'. The Kinect sensor is able to pick up your body movements without the need for a controller and it also incorporated hand movements to scroll through menus. This is very impressive technology and is a sign of the future.

PlayStation followed suit by releasing the PlayStation Move controller in September 2010. This is similar to the Wii remote as you have to use the controller to monitor your body movements. It received impressive reviews with many praising its accuracy and how it has been used to develop motion-based gameplay.

Nintendo started everything back in 2006 but the competition have raised the bar in terms of motion technology with more accurate and innovative products than the Wii. With the 4-year gap between release dates, this was inevitable but in 2012 we will see whether Nintendo can raise their level to continue the good work started by the Wii.

Flight Simulator Games - To Download or Buy?

2012-02-02T19:51:00.003+05:30

Flight Simulator Games are more popular than ever. Check out YouTube and you'll see 10 year old's landing a Boeing 747 with the precision of a seasoned pilot. In reality however, this is just a kid playing a game. Or is it?
With all the realism put into these 'games' many hesitate to use that word. Amongst some hardcore enthusiasts of flight simulators game is a dirty word. Quite frankly that might be because they have thousands even tens of thousands of dollars invested into some very impressive if not bank depleting hardware.

When you begin looking at how to embark on a journey of amateur pilot training or simply enjoying the fun of an evening flying over your local town; you must question how to get there.
By this I mean really examining the type of software you will use and how you will get it. Do you go out and get a Microsoft product from your local software store? Is it going to be compatible with the type of joystick, yoke or paddles you may have in mind for your flight simulator game setup?
Another important question if the bug just bit you is whether or not you want it now.

If you are interested in exploring the online simulator game option then you should look at what your needs and wants are. Are you using a Mac or PC? Mac users will find that trying to run Microsoft Simulator X or others will not work so well in Parallels if at all. An option may be to order the multiple DVD package of X-Plane. This is a cool package and reasonably priced however it does take some time getting to your door.

Another thing to consider is whether or not you have any sort of input devices including a flight joystick or controller, paddles, yoke etc. These mainly will work with most flight simulator games but you have to ensure that before you buy.

A cool option that has recently sprouted online is games that you can download, try for a period of time as either a trial version or a full version with a money back guarantee. If you're unsure as to whether or not these simulators are for you then this might be the right option for you.
Other things to consider when looking at a flight sim is the level of realism, the size of the game and what type of internet connection you have for downloading purposes and also support.

Games that have tutorials, and an online community that help you learn will reduce frustration, increase playability and make the whole experience a lot more fun.

I am an avid gamer and flight simulator enthusiast that has both Windows and Mac Flight Simulator "games".

2012 In Video Gaming: 10 Games to Wait For

2012-02-02T19:50:00.001+05:30

Year 2011 has been very good for a gamer, possibly the best in a long time. We had Littlebigplanet 2, Killzone 3, Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Uncharted 3 and the list goes on. The year 2012 will see many original video games, as well as the release of numerous sequels to already successful franchises. Here are ten titles to wait for in 2012.

1. Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning
This upcoming single-player RPG developed by 38 studios has all the potential to be a success. The game universe is created by fantasy author R.A. Salvatore and responsible for the artwork has been no other than Todd McFarlane (Creator of Spawn). Taking God of War and marrying it with Oblivion is a BIG promise (one made by Curt Schilling), but we will see does the game live up with the hype. Oh and btw Claudia Black (you know.. Morrigan) is doing some voice acting.

2. Torchlight II
Supposedly being bigger and better than the original game, Torchlight II features overland areas with multiple hub towns, and a longer campaign. New features are heard to be included as well such as time of day cycles, weather and renewed user interface. Players can now also customize their appearance with choice of gender, face, and hair style. We are eager ready for this new hack-and-slash rpg. PC, MAC

3. Final Fantasy XIII-2
Claiming to fix the problem fans hated in Final Fantasy XIII, read: linearity, the game continues five years after the events of FFXIII. The game claims to add freedom, new towns, and improvements to the (already excellent) battle-system. Glorious world design, excellent combat and strong storytelling: These are the things look for in Final Fantasy XIII-2. PS3, XBOX360

4. Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch
We love eye candy and interesting stories. A game which combines both, is surely welcomed. If you already haven't heard: Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch is a game developed by LEVEL-5 with Animation by Studio Ghibli. The title surely has the potential to be a keeper. PS3, 3DS

5. The Last Guardian
What can Team Ico can offer us this time? If you loved Ico or the Shadow of Colossus there is no need for explanation because it is something good. Unfortunately, The Last Guardian has been a title people have just been waiting... and waiting.. and waiting with most recent news being Yoshifusa Hayama, The Last Guardian's executive producer, leaving the studio to develop some Facebook games!!! The Last Guardian is a third-person perspective game that combines action-adventure and puzzle elements. PS3

6. Uncharted: Golden Abyss
Uncharted: Golden Abyss is the first Uncharted prequel and first Uncharted title on handheld devices, meaning Sony's upcoming PlayStation Vita. We will see how the Uncovering of the dark secret behind the 400-year-old massacre of a Spanish expedition goes on PS Vitas OLED screen. PlayStation Vita.

7. The Last of Us
We don't know much about this title yet, since it was just recently released. Resembling I am Legend, the game has astonishing graphics and developer team which no doubt can deliver a real adventure. If Uncharted meets Enslaved in this game, consider me sold. Even with so little detail, this game might already be the most hyped PS3 game for the following year. PS3

8. GTA V
GTA V, the latest installment in the Grand Theft Auto series and another GTA that is set in Los Santos, San Andreas! The game looks awesome so far and will most likely deliver what is to be expected.

9. Borderlands 2
Gearbox's shoot and loot game looks better than ever. The first Borderlands was purely an awesome game. Building upon the gameplay elements of its predecessor, Borderlands 2 features all-new characters, skills, environments, enemies, weapons and equipment, which come together in a crafted story. PC, PS3, XBOX360

10. Mass Effect 3
Earth has been taken, the galaxy is on the verge of total annihilation, and you are the only one who can stop them. This probably is the game everybody is waiting for. Mass Effect 2 was the best sci-fi RPG I've ever played. So get ready to follow YOUR story of Commander Shepard in Mass Effect 3, if you have the save-game files for Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2. If you don't.. I suggest you leave home now and don't come back without those earlier Mass Effects.

Why You Should Choose Foosball Tables

2012-02-02T19:49:00.001+05:30

One can find just about any type of foosball table they are interested in. The most inexpensive foosball tables are those that are made from synthetic wood products. They are generally for amusement purposes only.
Some of the game tables that are for sale can be quite costly. The professional game tables are engineered for greater stability and purpose so that individuals can play their game without any issues with table rocking or sticking. These are typically famous maker tables, that the pros use. One can pay a few thousand dollars or a foosball table, but having a good table to play on does not have to cost thousands of dollars.

There are a number of serviceable tables that an individual can buy that can work very well to keep their game up. One that chooses to buy a table online or in a brick and mortar store should carefully compare products and reviews. This is a way that one that can get the best quality product for the money. Decide on the type of game table that suits your needs and go from there.

There are some classic makers of foosball tables such as Rene Pierre foosball tables and Garlando foosball tables for instance, which has a number of classic and durable game tables. However, their costs tend to be on the high side. There are other makers of foosball tables that probably just as good and cost much less. One should read over the various features of the table and find the ones that are most applicable to them. A good sturdy table that has rods that are easy to move should be acceptable for many players even professionals. There are several sites online that one can buy these tables.
They are of course, available in brick and mortar stores as well. The advantage of the sport stores or other brick and mortar stores are that the individual will be able to check out the table in the store and can make a decision as to whether or not it will work for them. There are so many tables to choose from that the individual should have no problems choosing a table that will meet their particular needs. One should simply decide what features they would like in their Game table and go from there. It is really as simple as that.

A certain subset of gamers use only foosball tables that are tabletop models. This could be ideal for the gamer that has a limited amount of space. These tabletop games also come in a variety of price ranges and quality types. The tabletop games can be potentially just as good. They simply have a different strategy that is employed when playing the games. Some would argue that there is no real freedom of movement with these tabletop varieties.
These models are fine for most players a long as they are played on a sturdy table underneath. These are used to great effect by many people.
A game table may be the best for those who want to pursue foosball, either recreationally or seriously. One can purchase these almost anywhere. There are so many styles and possibilities of tables that there is no shortage to choose from.

As discussed previously, basic foosball tables for the kids can be fine., As one develops more skills at the game and plays at an intermediate level they may want a more professional style table that allows greater maneuverability of both rods and players. At the professional level players are more interested in over all maneuverability, and take the game seriously. They need a high level table and one that offers maximum durability and flexibility of both rods, and players. Fortunately there are several models that meet those specifications. tables for advanced players in addition offer thicker walls and thicker playing surfaces.
They are available in various price ranges. One of the main advantages for the thicker walls and thicker playing services is that it allows greater angle deflection for experienced or advanced players. They also offer thick cabinetry that allows for storage of items. Younger players can also use tables that allow for growth on their part. They can see the players better on adjustable foosball player tables. Some of these tables also convert to other gaming tables so that the player can play a number of games on the tabletop.

Those who are interested in game tables, but are not sure which tables to buy can consult a foosball player playing guide to find the tables they are interested in. There is a quite a variety naturally, and reading about the tables prior to purchase is a good thing to do. One can certainly find the foosball table for them as there are so many that are for sale. Buying these tables is a good option for any player, so consulting a guide, and deciding in advance which features are important to them is a prudent thing to do.
It also helps to have a price range decided in advance, so that you can decide how much you are willing to spend for the ideal foosball table. A foosball table can be an excellent, fun and exciting purchase that can offer hours of entertainment for friends and family alike. Just decide what sort of table to go for and have fun with it.

Michiel Van Kets writes articles for GameTablesOnline.com about air hockey, ping pong and foosball tables. For the best foosball table, Game Tables Online is the choice, focusing on game table such as foosball, shuffleboard, air hockey, bumper pool and game tables of all sorts, offering the top price you will find anywhere for high-quality game tables and Rene Pierre foosball table and the best customer service in the industry.

While outdoor sports provide lots of fun and excitement, gaming tables are a great way to bring the fun of the outdoors into your home. Gaming tables provide endless enjoyment and are a great for parties or family fun. With roots dating back to the 1500s, they will continue to be a source of fun and excitement for the family for many years to come. Find out about Garlando foosball tables and more today.

Alchemy Guide - How to Start the Game With Four Base Elements

2012-02-02T19:47:00.005+05:30

Alchemy is a game specially designed for Android platform. The game is simple but requiring lots of creativity; not to mention very fun and highly addictive. In Alchemy, your objective is to combine two particular elements in order to create more combos. Some players reckon that this game is similar to PC game Doodle God. When the first generation of Alchemy was released, you could only create 154 elements at the max. However, latest installment of this game allows you to get total of 380 possible combinations of new elements.

In Alchemy, you will be given four base elements (water, earth, fire, and air) to start with. Double tap the game workspace screen to create these elements. For creating more elements in the game, drag and drop one element on top of the other. However, only certain combinations can be used for getting a new one. If your combination is right, you will get a new element on your workspace.
Combining the four base elements correctly will lead you to more various and fun combos. Here are some combinations you can do to create new elements from 'water', 'earth', 'fire', and 'air':

Air + air = wind
Air + earth = dust
Air + fire = energy
Air + water = steam
Earth + earth = pressure
Earth + fire = lava
Earth + water = swamp
Fire + water = alcohol

From the combinations, you can create more elements by yourself. For instance, you will get 'vodka' if you combine 'alcohol' and 'water' and so forth.
As the game progresses, you will notice that your workspace will be cluttered by new elements you have successfully combined. You can clear them from the workspace by dragging the icons to the trash can at the bottom of the screen. You can also remove them all at once by tapping a button in the menu. You don't need to worry as clearing these elements won't undo the progress you have made. Although erased, you can put the elements you have at least combined once instantly on the workspace screen without having to recreate them.

One of the cool things about Alchemy is that the more you play the more surprise you will get. Not only can you get nature's elements such as 'planet', 'wood', 'wine', 'life', 'tree', 'bacteria', 'fish', 'sand', or 'shells', but you will also be able to create popular and commercial ones such as 'McDonald's', 'The Beatles', 'Sex in the City', 'Jedi', 'Sith', 'Lance Armstrong', 'Ghostbusters', or 'Robin Hood'.

Benefits of Playing a Tank Game

2012-02-02T19:47:00.004+05:30

The tank game was first introduced into the market in the 1980's and over the years has undergone several developments, which endears it to players. It is highly recommended for players inclined towards defense games; players who love the battlefield will be thrilled by it. This is because of the thrill that is associated with it such as having to overcome and destroy several enemies. If you want to learn more about it before playing, the following are some of the benefits associated with it.

- Exciting
Because of the high concentration span that is needed to destroy enemies, this is seen as one of the highly exciting games. High-speed motion is involved and there are different types of terrains for players to move in. Players are bound to enjoy adrenaline rush and considering the modifications applied in different games, players can settle for what captures their fancy.

- Easy Game Play
Players do not have to be experts in order to have a good time. There are just a couple of tips that need to be followed in order to come out victorious while playing tank game. Key among them is learning how the keys are controlled. Once this is achieved, the rest will be easy to accomplish. It is precisely because of this that it has the ability of capturing the players' attention.

- Challenging
Contrary to popular belief that it offers easy play, this could not be further from the truth. It is rather challenging and this keeps the players mind engaged thus increasing the level of creativity and imagination. For this reason, it is considered an ideal choice for players from different age groups. The idea is to beat all opponents and to accomplish this end a high level of concentration is needed. Consequently, this increases the player's ability to face tough real life issues as well.

- User Interface
The user interface is easy to use and to prove this, you just need a stable online connection and a PC. What is more, you can also download it and enjoy playing at your own convenience.

- Free and Paid Choices
Depending on what you are looking for, you can opt for a free tank game or a paid one. Regardless of what you choose, it is important to note that you will receive the same thrill.
It is precisely because of all these benefits that this is seen as a worthwhile choice for players though this is a decision that can only be made based on individual needs.

What Is Gamification?

2011-05-02T18:44:00.001+05:30

Gamification is a term used to describe the implementation of game mechanics and techniques into areas and industries outside of gaming. In essence, it is the concept of using game features to entice participation - similar to how video games are so great at holding people's attention. Because this in partial works off the predispositions of human nature, it is a concept that is gaining widespread attention throughout the world. Many businesses are beginning to capitalize on gamification and it's application into the workforce by adding points, working against odds, setting goals and rewards as well as transforming weaker links of social media into more powerful networks.

Gamification came to be from the natural implementation of game mechanics and techniques into video games over the past four to five decades. Game developers would implement problems and require the player to determine the solution, and although this may not seem significant alone, developers continued to make new types of problems and solutions using innovative game mechanics, themes, etc. resulting in a wide range of video games from Nintendo's Super Mario to Metal Gear Solid, Battlefield 3 and Portal.
Author of 'Reality is Broken', Jane McGonigal writes in her book that we should leverage game mechanics and techniques to work on the social challenges of our time. She states there are four basic traits for any game:
1.a goal
2.clear rules
3.a feedback system
4.voluntary participation

She believes these four traits can be applied to any challenge, and are not exclusive to video games.
When looking at the work place in the modern age, the first three of the traits seem to be well-mastered. Organizations have experience with goal-setting, defining clear rules and feedback. But a significant problem stems from the voluntary participation of work. Except for some fortunate souls, work tends to feel like work and not necessarily voluntary. This is a crucial divider of games from work or other challenges in that games are fun, engaging and voluntary. So the concept of gamification in the workplace needs special emphasis on finding out how to align personal passion and commitment to work, and how to retain that relationship so it feels less like the daily grind.

There is a limit though, and it should not be overdone. However gamification is a process and we should embrace it and learn from it as we experience its emergence into our every day lives.

Learning in Gaming - An educational approach to video games.