Climate education through online narrative games:the importance of innovation, integration, interaction and intervention

There is growing attention to the role of narrative in climate change education and communication. Storytelling is accessible and engaging, and can generate climate conversations. This study reports on an online narrative video game (Game Changers) designed to generate conversations on topics related to climate change using the convergence of live theatre and games using a novel ‘choose our own adventure’ mechanic. Drawing on analysis of observations of two livestream broadcasts, online chat comments from 128 players and a post-game questionnaire completed by 42 players, we identify four design features that produced climate education-related behaviours. Intervention through choices in the game world enabled agency and the exploration of different futures. Integration of climate change in the plot, characters and scenery enabled an aesthetic experience, critique of corporate power and learning about related concepts such as greenwashing. Interaction between peers and with characters enabled social pleasure through play, climate conversations and learning. Innovation in format, technology and storytelling engaged audiences positively with climate change. Future live game experiences might build bridges between the game world and real world by holding more extended spaces for players to negotiate decisions, and drawing on the expertise of climate activists to strengthen improvisational moments.