ABSTRACT
In this chapter we explore the variety of possible implementations of serious games for civic engagement in urban planning. The discussion is based on four games: Vacant Spaces, Fun Trippers, River Bend – Create Your Dream Place, and The American Eggroll. They were designed and developed by the students of Iowa State University in a course called GeoGames for Civic Engagement. The games differ in the way they conceptualize and represent the space and game environment, their approach to civic engagement and its implementation, the seriousness and playfulness of the game, and its potential users. We discuss these differences and how are they reflected in the design and prototype implementation of the introduced games. We conclude the chapter with a discussion of the lessons learned from designing games for civic engagement.
