Emily Wauters

Building Digital Resilience Against Gamblification Through Playful Learning

I explored how design can build digital resilience in youth by revealing the manipulative gambling mechanics hidden within modern video games. Increasingly, young people encounter gambling-like systems such as loot boxes, streaks, and near misses disguised as harmless play. I wanted to expose these tactics and help players recognise manipulation before harm occurs.

The Gambling Game is a web-based simulation that teaches through role reversal. Players work with the “Game Screen” to design addictive features and observe their effects on a fictional player’s wellbeing. This playful yet critical experience applies inoculation theory and scenario-based learning to make awareness interactive rather than instructional.

The project includes a mobile-friendly simulation, a teacher’s handbook for classroom use, and a poster campaign linking digital and physical environments. Together, these deliverables demonstrate how design can act as prevention; transforming play into a tool for critical thinking, awareness, and empowerment among young audiences.