Pathogen Patrol: 2024 Formal Games Winner
We are thrilled to announce that Pathogen Patrol has received the award for the Formal Games category. This game isn’t just another fun adventure on Roblox—it’s an incredibly engaging and educational tool, perfect for teaching science to kids. Leveraging the popular Roblox platform, Pathogen Patrol was designed by Project Lead The Way and developed by Tipping Point Media to allow players to use their own avatars and explore immersive environments simulating the inner workings of cells and different bodies. This innovative approach makes learning about biology both fun and accessible. 🎮🧬
Pathogen Patrol is a groundbreaking gamified learning experience that takes students on a journey inside the body of a sick patient. Here, they assume the role of one of five different white blood cell types, each with unique abilities. 🦠 By teaming up with other players, students actively engage in protecting the patient from invading pathogens. This immersive gameplay seamlessly blends education with entertainment, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of the human immune system.
🏆 Pathogen Patrol stood out in the Formal Games category for several reasons:
Familiarity with Roblox: Many users are already familiar with Roblox, which enhances the accessibility and appeal of the game. The platform’s safety and representation tools are effectively utilized to ensure a secure and inclusive experience.
Versatile Gameplay: The option for both multi-player and single-player modes offers flexibility, catering to different learning styles and preferences. This adaptability is crucial for diverse educational settings.
Challenging and Engaging: The game is designed to be challenging, encouraging multiple plays and deep engagement. This aspect fosters a competitive spirit and motivates players to better understand the content.
Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Pathogen Patrol excels in providing multiple means of engagement, representation, and action/expression. This adherence to UDL principles ensures that the game is accessible and effective for a wide range of learners.
Classroom Integration: The game’s potential for classroom use is significant. Teachers can utilize the multi-player option for collaborative learning and focus on debrief sessions to help students think strategically and deepen their understanding.
The Formal Learning category had tough competition, with other exemplary games also deserving recognition:
📚🕵️♂️🔍 “Brief the Chief” – An interactive educational tool that gamifies information searches, making learning dynamic and engaging. The game employs an unreliable narrator and strategic limitations on interactions, encouraging players to think critically and make informed decisions. Built-in reflection and point-scoring mechanisms enhance the learning experience.
💣🔢📊 “Cal and Bomba” – This game integrates mathematical concepts into its mechanics, making complex data comprehensible and engaging. Its intuitive design, effective graphical representations, and flexible level navigation promote a deep understanding of mathematics through fun and interactive gameplay.
📜⚖️🏛️ “Constitutional Compromise” – A storytelling tool that allows players to compare their decisions with historical outcomes, enhancing understanding and engagement. Its friendly art style, guided narration, and comprehensive glossary make complex topics accessible and educational for a diverse audience.
Pathogen Patrol’s innovative approach to education, combining popular gaming platforms with immersive and educational content, sets a fun new standard for engaging and effective learning experiences. 🎉🔬
Thanks to category lead, Amy Patterson (Urban Arts), and judges: Adeeb Syed (Harvard Extension School), Amanda Siebert-Evenstone (Age of Learning), Ray Kimball (42 Educational Games Coaching and Design), Valentin Briukhanov (CodeCombat).
