Creating Stealth Game Interventions for Attitude and Behavior Change : An ‘Embedded Design’ Model

Abstract

The chapter will open with examples of transformational games that utilize overt, explicit approaches to attitude and behavior change. While acknowledging the worthwhile intentions of such games and their potential utility for triggering reflection and action, this overview will present the central premise of the chapter: that there are a number of fundamental reasons why explicit approaches can backfire or be of limited utility for persuasion and that the use of more implicit, covert approaches to persuasion can be more effective. The ‘embedded design’ model presented in this chapter is particularly relevant for games attempting to engage players with sensitive or potentially threatening topics or to address attitudes or behaviors that themselves are implicit or unconscious.