Comparing Ideation Techniques for Games Education: SCAMPER, Gamicards, Brainstorming

Abstract

We conducted a comparative study of two structured (SCAMPER, Playgen AddingPlay card kit) and one unstructured (free brainstorming) ideation techniques, aiming to establish their suitability for game design education. We collected data about the techniques’ productivity, ease of use, and enjoyability from 100 participants in 60-minute game ideation workshops. Contrary to expectations, the data revealed no statistically significant differences between the techniques. The unexpected results led us to reconsider some of our starting assumptions, pointing to the complex nature of counting and evaluating ideas. Based on this, the discussion outlines some suggestions for future research into ideation in games education.