Crafting digital heritage: A design-based study of “Chin’s Journey” as a mobile game for cultural preservation and education episode 1

Abstract

This study analyzes the conceptualization and design of “Chin’s Journey,” a mobile game inspired by the life of a young girl in 1950s Sarawak, Malaysia. The game, which merges narrative depth with interactive mechanics, serves as a vehicle for cultural preservation, education, and social empathy. The gameplay mirrors the protagonist’s journey of overcoming societal and familial obstacles as she pursues her aspirations for education and empowerment. The game’s design integrates established theories such as Bloom’s taxonomy, social learning theory, and Campbell’s hero’s journey to deliver an engaging and educational experience. The game’s mechanics, including time management, decision-making, mini-games, and cultural immersion, enhance interactivity while addressing themes of resource constraints, identity, and personal growth. By aligning gameplay with narrative progression, the design fosters an emotional connection with players, cultivating empathy and cultural understanding. Furthermore, the paper underscores the potential of mobile games to foster cross-cultural narratives and provide learners with meaningful engagement. The discussion also addresses implementation challenges, such as balancing entertainment and educational content. This study contributes to the growing body of research on narrative-based mobile games as tools for cultural education and social impact, specifically employing a design-based research approach to refine the game’s efficacy.

Keywords

Mobile game / Cultural preservation / Educational game / Narrative-based game / Game design / User experience / Design-based research / Digital heritage

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