Ecoepidemiological Simulation as a Serious Game Engine Module

Abstract

The integration of an agent-based simulation model as a component of a game engine for serious games targeting prevention and health promotion in the context of infectious diseases is described. It is argued that a combination of agent-based modelling and serious games can help provide a more realistic picture of disease spread than conventional ecoepidemiological models, by facilitating the integration of more detailed multidisciplinary expert knowledge. In addition, agent-based simulations provide engaging game mechanics, thereby fostering citizen engagement in the collection of up-to-date real-world data which can be used to improve the model.