Changing the Game: How Video Games Are Transforming the Future of Business

Chapter 8 Games for Work, Games at Work

On some level, we’re all familiar with the real-life importance of games and play. We know from innumerable National Geographic specials that cavorting lion cubs and wrestling puppies are actually preparing for serious tasks, such as attracting mates, avoiding capture, and finding food.¹ Play serves an obvious developmental role for human children as well. So many studies have demonstrated the beneficial impact of play on child development that the United Nations Commission for Human Rights has declared recreation a fundamental right of every child.² And as it turns out, the benefits of doing things for fun and engaging in play don’t end with childhood.

Of course, we can’t claim that playing Solitaire ...