Chapter 1: The Call to Adventure
February 10 |12:00 Noon to 6:00 pm CST

Step away from the ordinary and embrace your role as a Learning Leader and Inventor of the Future!

Log in to the conference platform and prepare to dive into an unforgettable journey. Arm yourself with your favorite beverage, a snack, and a sense of curiosity—this isn’t just a conference; it’s a steampunk-inspired expedition into the next era of learning.

For the next 48 hours, you’ll navigate gamified adventures, tackle innovative design challenges, and uncover the unexpected. The gears are turning, and the stage is set. Your call to adventure awaits—step forward and begin crafting the future of learning!

February 10
12:00 Noon-12:30 pm CST
Monica Cornetti, United States
Bernardo Letayf, Mexico

Inventing the Future 
Join Monica and Bernardo as they launch this incredible experience and lay out what it means to invent the future.

February 10
12:30 pm-1:30 pm CST
Mohsin Memon, Evivve
India

The AFERR Model: A Framework for Effective Learning Experiences
Discover how the AFERR model enhances learning and decision-making through five key stages: Activation (sparking curiosity), Forecasting (anticipating outcomes), Experimentation (testing ideas), Realization (connecting actions to outcomes), and Reflection (integrating experiences for future success). In this interactive session, explore how to apply this framework to your learning programs and seamlessly integrate structured thinking with dynamic learning.

February 10
1:30 pm-3:30 pm CST
Rasha Morsi, PhD, Norfolk State University, and Musbah Abdulgader, Norfolk State University
United States

Unlocking Creativity: Using ChatGPT to Generate Gamification Ideas and Storylines 
Are you looking to boost engagement and participation in your projects through innovative gamification strategies? Are you struggling to come up with gamification ideas?

This playshop will provide you with the knowledge and tools to create engaging gamification strategies tailored to your specific needs. Unlock the full potential of gamification with the help of ChatGPT. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced professional, this playshop will provide valuable insights and practical skills to take your projects to the next level.

February 10
3:30 pm-5:00 pm CST
Bret Wardle, Bit Puppy Interactive
United States

Less Talk, More Play: 5 Games Every Interactive Designer Should Experience
Ever caught yourself or a fellow learning designer admitting, "I've never played that game"? There is a critical gap in our field: while we craft gamified experiences, many of us aren't immersing ourselves in the very medium we're adapting.

In this hands-on, interactive session, we'll dive into five revolutionary games that shaped not just gaming history, but also the fundamental principles of engagement we use today. More than just talk - we'll play them together!

Journey through:

• Mancala: At roughly 8000 years old, this is often cited as the first organized “game”... But what is a game vs play? And how complicated do games really need to be?
• Dungeons & Dragons: Experience firsthand how the grandfather of table-top role-playing games (TTRPG) masterfully weaves character development, storytelling, and chance into an enduring social experience
• Space Invaders: Discover how this arcade phenomenon birthed competitive gaming and the addictive 'one more try' loop
• Pokémon: Discover how a game created an omni-channel experience, and had the whole world thinking they “Gotta Catch 'em All"
• Minecraft: Unlock the secrets behind the world's most successful sandbox experience and its brilliant balance of systems versus content

No complex setups or gaming experience required (But there may be some downloads if you want to fully immerse yourself).

Come prepared to play, laugh, and discover how these gaming landmarks can transform your approach to learning design. Leave with practical insights, new perspectives, and maybe even some prizes!

February 10
3:30 pm-5:00 pm CST
Game Garage with Bret Wardle

Experience the Classics: What Every Gamification Designer Should Know
Join Bret Wardle as we dive into versions of the games that have shaped the landscape of gamification and game-based learning. This session offers a hands-on exploration of timeless favorites that every gamification designer should experience:

1. Mancala: At roughly 8000 years old, this is often cited as the first organized “game”... But what is a game vs play? And how complicated do games really need to be?
2. Dungeons & Dragons: Experience firsthand how the grandfather of table-top role-playing games (TTRPG) masterfully weaves character development, storytelling, and chance into an enduring social experience
3. Space Invaders: Discover how this arcade phenomenon birthed competitive gaming and the addictive 'one more try' loop
4. Pokémon: Discover how a game created an omni-channel experience, and had the whole world thinking they “Gotta Catch 'em All"
5. Minecraft: Unlock the secrets behind the world's most successful sandbox experience and its brilliant balance of systems versus content

This Game Garage session is your chance to experience these influential games while drawing inspiration for your own gamified designs. Come ready to play, explore, and learn!

February 10
5:00 pm-6:00 pm CST
Throwdown Competition

The GamiCon48V Throwdown is a global stage for innovation, showcasing the most groundbreaking gamified and game-based learning designs in L&D, HR, and Adult Education. Throughout the 48 hours, participants will journey through a collection of inspiring projects, casting their votes for the coveted People's Choice Award. Meanwhile, expert judges will evaluate submissions for creativity, innovation, and measurable results, determining who advances to the finals. Be part of the excitement as we celebrate the future of learning!

Chapter 2: Forging Connections
February 10 | 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm CST

Step into a world of mentorship, innovation, and discovery as we explore the art of forging meaningful connections. Guided by Jonathan Peters, PhD, and Valary Oleinik, this chapter delves into mentoring the next generation, embracing diverse perspectives, and sparking creative breakthroughs. Aligned with our steampunk-inspired theme of exploration and invention, this session will inspire you to build bridges, cultivate growth, and transform learning experiences.

February 10
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm CST
Caitlin Johnson, Bold-Bird Consulting
United States

Next Gen Mentorship: Coaching Millennials and Gen Z Through Play
Discover how gamification can revolutionize early career coaching by aligning professional development with the way younger generations naturally learn and engage. In this dynamic session, you’ll explore how game mechanics—like quests, leaderboards, and power-ups—can motivate new employees, foster resilience, and accelerate growth. By embracing playful coaching models, L&D leaders can unlock the full potential of Millennials and Gen Z, transforming their learning journeys into rewarding, high-impact adventures.
Get ready to reimagine your programs with tools and tactics that speak directly to the next generation of talent—because the future of work is play!

February 10
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm CST
Bernardo Letayf, Mexico
Chuck Sigmund, USA
Rasha Morsi, PhD, USA
Musbah Adbulgader, PhD, USA

New Panel Discussion: AI & Gamification—The Future of Learning

With AI reshaping every industry, how can we harness its power to transform gamification and game-based learning? This expert panel brings together AI innovators, instructional designers, and game-based learning experts to explore practical applications, challenges, and the future of AI-driven engagement in education and corporate training.

Panel Discussion Topics:

🔹 How is AI already changing gamification and learning design?
🔹 What are the biggest opportunities (and risks) of integrating AI into gamified experiences?
🔹 How can AI personalize and adapt game-based learning for different learners?
🔹 What role does AI play in storytelling, game mechanics, and real-time feedback?
🔹 What are the ethical considerations of using AI in gamification?

This session is for instructional designers, trainers, game developers, and educators who want to stay ahead of the AI revolution in learning.

February 10
8:30 pm - 10:00 pm CST
Bhaskar Thyagarajan, Kairos
India

Beyond the Game: A Ready-to-Use Model to Master the Art of Facilitation
With cohort-based learning coming back with a bang and a concurrent drop in attention spans, game-based learning has the potential to solve for engagement and impact.

This interactive and lively session, anchored in game-play, offers a deep dive into a ready-to-use construct that will help facilitators design and deliver game-led ILT sessions with impact.

From dissecting learning themes to create game-choices to post session action plans, the model is a full circle from learning objective to actionable outcomes, all anchored in game-play.

A special focus will be on how digital games offer data-based facilitation opportunities to create buy-in and remove bias from facilitation.

Whether you are a seasoned trainer or new to game-based learning, this session goes beyond simply running games to help you master the craft of facilitation to create engagement, connection, and insight.  And did we mention the fun we’ll have playing some awesome games while we are at it? 

Key Skills that you will learn:

1. Choosing/designing the right game to match your learning outcome
2. Foster meaningful reflections that connect game outcomes to real-world insights
3. Adapt facilitation techniques to engage diverse audiences and handle unexpected challenges
4. Data-based facilitation in digital game-based learning

February 10
8:30 pm - 10:00pm CST
Game Garage: Game Garage is Sententia’s open playground for gamification enthusiasts—a space for exploration, play, and discovery. During GamiCon48V, participants will step into the Game Garage to experience iconic games firsthand, uncovering the mechanics, psychology, and design principles that make them legendary.

Bhaskar Thyagarajan, Kairos

Beyond the Game: A Ready-to-Use Model to Master the Art of Facilitation

CHAPTER 3: The Global Nexus
February 10 at 10:00 pm to February 11 at 3:00 am CST

Join James Bishop (Hong Kong) and Jimbo Clark (Taiwan) as they host five hours of insightful sessions featuring groundbreaking ideas and practices from their corner of the globe. Explore innovative applications of gamification, from driving gender equality in Australia to uncovering cultural insights through business simulations in Malaysia, and leadership design in the AI era from Thailand.

This chapter brings unique perspectives from Asia and beyond, featuring engaging sessions like a fishing-themed gamification journey from South Korea and our signature Game Garage experience. Witness how gamification transforms learning, leadership, and organizational impact.

February 10
10:00 pm -10:30 pm CST
James Bishop, Koru Consulting, Hong Kong
Jimbo Clark, innoGreat, Taiwan

A Conversation
How gamification is solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of learning and leadership.

February 10
10:30 pm - 11:00 pm CST
Kerstin Oberprieler
Australia

Gamified Gender Equality: Real World Nudges in Action
Explores the powerful intersection of gamification and behavioral design to tackle complex, large-scale issues like gender inequality in the Australian aviation industry. Learn how targeted behavioral nudges can shift mindsets, reduce bias, and foster inclusivity through game-inspired interventions. Backed by measurable outcomes from a real-world trial, Kerstin will share innovative strategies for embedding behavioral design and gamification principles to create lasting impact.

February 10 
11:00 pm -12:00 Midnight CST
Sufiz Mohd Suffian, Recur Consult
Malaysia

Culture in Action: Observing Organizational Values in Business Simulations
Explore how business simulations can serve as powerful tools for assessing and understanding company culture. By observing player interactions and decision-making patterns in a simulated business environment, learning practitioners can gain valuable insights into the underlying values, behaviors, and social dynamics that reflect an organization's culture. This session demonstrates how simulations reveal cultural traits in real-time, enabling companies to identify cultural strengths, address misalignments, and foster a work environment that aligns with strategic goals.

February 11
12:00 Midnight -1:00 am CST
Maytwin Pitipornvivat, BASE Playhouse
Thailand

The Expedition for 'Leadership' in Gamification Within the Age of AI
Join an expedition around designing gamification and simulation games where the trophy is the all-time-classic skill—Leadership. Explore mechanics and game elements from a real case study where game design meets learning design, achieving the best learning experience at the edge of AI.

February 11
1:00 am - 1:30 am CST
Dunghyun Lee, INJE University
South Korea

Gamification at an Outdoor Fishing Spot. Family and friends can harmonize, meditate, learn fishing, and have fun playing. Through real outdoor fishing activities, participants can compete for the best in every unexpected session. They can control and wait for fishing within the time limit. They also share know-how and communication. Some luck and randomness can give them joy and pleasure. They can learn fishing skills or knowledge and how to immerse themselves into the gamified environment, merging online and offline.  

February 11
1:30 am - 2:00 am CST
Connect, Discuss, Network, and Relax

February 11
2:00 am - 3:00 am CST

Game Garage: Game Garage is Sententia’s open playground for gamification enthusiasts—a space for exploration, play, and discovery. During GamiCon48V, participants will step into the Game Garage to experience iconic games firsthand, uncovering the mechanics, psychology, and design principles that make them legendary.

Game Garage with Jimbo Clark
Thinking Inside and Outside the B❒X Experience
In this engaging and hands-on session, participants will embark on a four-step journey to redefine their thinking. Using a specially designed box as a metaphor for the invisible boundaries that limit creativity, you’ll customize your own box through interactive activities and reflections. Discover the valuable role your "thinking box" plays, explore the tension between present challenges and future possibilities, and expand the boundaries of your perspective. This session promises to spark creativity, foster self-awareness, and inspire innovative solutions for real-world problems.

CHAPTER 4: Unlocking the Future
February 11 | 3:00 am - 8:00 am CST

Join Moe Ash (Egypt) and Nada El-Egeimy (Egypt) for a six-hour journey into the future of gamified learning and innovation. From Indonesia’s cutting-edge game-based assessments to Pakistan’s transformative use of the Golden Circle to gamify skill development, and Norway’s creative strategies for thriving in the AI era, this chapter showcases global ingenuity at its finest.

Dive into compelling sessions that reveal how gamification can drive creativity, resilience, and meaningful learning. These inspiring perspectives will empower you to reimagine what’s possible and equip you to fuel innovation in your own organization. The future is waiting—step in and unlock it.

February 11
3:00 am-3:30 am CST
Moe Ash, The Catalyst, Egypt
Nada El-Egeimy, HNI, Egypt

A Conversation
Kick off this chapter with a lively and thought-provoking conversation between Moe Ash (Egypt) and Nada El-Egeimy (Egypt) as they explore the evolving landscape of gamification and its transformative potential for adult learning and organizational innovation.

February 11
3:30 am-4:30 am CST
Junialdi Dwijaputra, Agate
Indonesia

Designing Game-Based Assessment and Game-Based Learning
Discover how game mechanics can transform learning and development strategies. Explore cutting-edge approaches that enhance engagement, foster critical thinking, and streamline assessment processes tailored for today’s workforce. You will unlock actionable insights on crafting game-based learning solutions that are cost-effective and impactful.

February 11
4:30 am-5:30 am CST
Zunara Nauman, International Training Center of ILO
Pakistan

From "Why to Win": Using the Golden Circle to Design Gamified Skill Development
Enhance the effectiveness of the power of gamification and architect it from another angle by leveraging the Golden Circle Rule!
This dynamic session will guide through the process of designing engaging and purpose-driven learning experiences, ensuring that every challenge and achievement is aligned with the learner’s "Why," "How," and "What." By applying these principles, you will elevate learner engagement and performance in your learning games. The Golden Circle Rule is embedded into the learning process. It empowers learners /players to adjust their actions (How), encouraging resilience, problem-solving, and deeper understanding (What) to realize the purpose (WHY)—all critical components of training and real-life applications.

February 11
5:30 am-6:00 am CST
Sohrab Mostaghim, WiseWorld.ai
Germany

The Inevitable Rise of Gamification: A New Engagement Paradigm

Gamification is no longer just an option—it’s a rising paradigm shaping how we engage, work, and innovate. We’ll explore why gamification is inevitable and examine its adoption in top organizations. Drawing parallels to the evolution of music consumption, we will see why embracing this shift is key to staying relevant and effective in today’s digital world.

By attending this session, you will:

• Understand the inevitability of gamification and its growing influence across industries
• Gain insights into real-world examples of gamification’s impact on employee engagement and business outcomes
• Draw connections between cultural shifts in gaming and digital engagement trends.

February 11
6:00 am-6:30 am CST
Snjezana Slabek, Cognite AS
Norway

Play to Innovate: Empowering Organizational Rebels and Fueling Creativity in the AI Era
This session tackles a critical and timely challenge for organizations today: balancing the structured processes necessary to scale while running innovation projects that demand increasing agility and creativity, especially in the fast-evolving AI era. Discover how ludification and gamification combine to energize learning and foster a culture of innovation in a global AI organization. This session explores real-world cases and strategies that use playful design and game-based approaches to keep teams engaged and forward-thinking, with a special focus on nurturing and empowering “rebels” within the organization who drive change and creativity. In a time when AI is transforming industries, the ability to cultivate core human skills—creativity, adaptability, and resilience—within structured environments is more essential than ever. Participants will gain tools to empower their teams to think beyond traditional models, helping them lead confidently and foster a forward-thinking, adaptable organization. You will leave with actionable insights to build a resilient, creative, and inclusive learning environment.

February 11
6:30 am-7:00 am CST
Connect, Discuss, Network, and Relax

February 11
7:00 am-8:00 am CST
Game Garage: Moe Ash, The Catalyst, Egypt

Chapter 5: Redefining Learning and Creativity
February 11 | 8:00 am - 1:00 pm CST

Step into a chapter packed with innovative strategies, engaging discussions, and transformative insights that challenge traditional approaches to learning and creativity. Led by hosts Artrell Williams and Ginine Capozzi, this chapter showcases how gamification and immersive design address real-world challenges in training, leadership, and beyond.

Uncover sessions that break down popular gamification myths, transform compliance training into memorable experiences, and leverage AI as a co-designer for impactful learning. Explore how a playful mindset can unlock creativity and redefine problem-solving in professional and personal contexts. Conclude with an interactive Game Garage escape room that tests teamwork, communication, and leadership under pressure.

This chapter offers actionable tools and groundbreaking ideas to help you reimagine the future of learning and innovation.

February 11 | 8:00 am-8:30 am CST
Artrell Williams, USA
Ginine Capozzi, USA

A Conversation
How gamification is solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of learning and leadership.

February 11 | 8:30 am-9:00 am CST
Greg Gurmai
Hungary

The DuoLingo Myth: Shiny Toys vs. True Empowerment
Unlock the secrets behind Duolingo’s global success and uncover the hidden gaps in its approach to language learning. Explore the gamification elements that make Duolingo popular and scalable while also addressing its limitations in fostering real-life language skills. Learn alternative methods that emphasize cultural immersion and practical usage, tailored specifically for learning languages.

February 11 | 9:00 am-10:00 am CST
Julie Bigot, Lalamedia
France

Compliance Training: From Boring to Scoring
Turn your compliance training into an engaging experience that sticks! In this hands-on session, you’ll help Marcus, a designer, transform his uninspiring course into one that grabs attention and drives action. Together, we’ll explore how to shift from traditional “push” content to a learner-centered approach, using simple gamification techniques to keep learners motivated. Walk away with fresh strategies to make compliance training more relevant and memorable—without overwhelming your schedule or your learners!

February 11 | 10:00 am-11:00 am CST
Sadie Gunnink, Gunzel Enterprises
United States

Next-Level Learning: Building Immersive Gamified Training with AI as Your Co-Designer
Learn how to harness the power of generative AI to design and build game-based training modules that drive engagement and enhance learning outcomes. We’ll walk through the entire process—from concept to creation—demonstrating how AI can streamline the development of serious games and make training experiences more interactive, personalized, and effective. Whether you're new to AI or a seasoned pro, you'll leave with actionable strategies to incorporate generative AI into your instructional design toolbox.

February 11 | 11:00 am-11:30 am CST
Thiago Barrionuevo, Cuboo Experience
Portugal

Life is a Game: Unlocking Creativity Through Games
Creativity isn’t a talent—it’s a mindset and a skill anyone can develop. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how adopting a playful approach can unlock creative thinking, redefine problem-solving, and drive innovation in personal and professional contexts. Participants will understand how to overcome mental barriers and think differently. This session sets the stage for the interactive gameplay that follows.  

February 11 | 11:30 am -1:00 pm CST
Game Garage with Thiago Barrionuevo

Cuboo
Cuboo is a digital escape-room experience designed to challenge teams on soft skills like teamwork, communication, leadership, and empathy. Over 60 minutes, players collaborate to solve creative puzzles, decode challenging clues, and achieve their mission. This game fosters collaboration under pressure, testing how well people perform as a team. Perfect for GamiCon48V, this experience blends fun with valuable insights into creativity and team dynamics, offering an exciting and impactful session.

Chapter 6: Breaking Boundaries
February 11 | 1:00 - 6:00 pm CST

Join Monica Cornetti and Javier Velasquez as they lead this chapter dedicated to pushing the limits of learning and innovation. Through thought-provoking conversations and pioneering sessions, this chapter explores how gamification transforms research, redefines game formats, and taps into the cutting-edge intersection of neuroscience, psychedelics, and learning design.

From empowering collaborative citizen science to evolving flagship game models into adaptable microgames, discover how these groundbreaking approaches are reshaping education and engagement. Conclude the chapter with the thrilling Throwdown Competition, where the most creative gamified designs are showcased, and engage in the Game Garage for an interactive experience like no other.

This chapter challenges you to think beyond traditional boundaries and embrace bold, transformative ideas for the future of learning. 

February 11 | 1:00 pm-1:30 pm CST
A conversation between Monica Cornetti (US) and Javier Velasquez (Colombia)

February 11 | 1:30 pm-2:00 pm CST
Julieta Lombardelli, Universidad Nacional de Quilmes
Argentina

Powering Citizen Science: Gamification Strategies for Open and Collaborative Research
Explore how gamification can transform citizen science into a powerful tool for collaborative research. We’ll delve into specific, actionable strategies to make scientific investigations more engaging and accessible, using gamification to drive open data, diverse participation, and co-creation in science. From UX research adaptation to designing inclusive project frameworks, you’ll be equipped with techniques to maximize impact and empower communities in real-world scientific contributions.

February 11 | 2:00 pm-2:30 pm CST
Ray Kimball, 42EdGames 
Gibert, AZ, US

From Flagship to Microgame: Leading Change in Reacting Games
How do you evolve an established, award-winning game format to meet the evolving needs of educators? This session will highlight a case study of how the Reacting Consortium, a network of higher education institutions promoting role-playing pedagogy, rose to meet this very challenge.

Learn how the Consortium:

• Identified the problem and a means to solve it
• Got the right people on the bus to make changes happen
• Implemented an innovative new publishing system that brought new games from nothing to market in 18 months

Now, you can provide Reacting Microgames for your own learning space!

February 11 | 2:30 pm-4:00 pm CST
David Chandross, Ontario Tech University,  
Toronto, Canada 

Psychedelic Gameworlds: The Final Frontier
Learn about the neuroscience of psychedelics applied to the field of learning. The same pathways integral to the action of agents such as psilocybin and LSD are those that are activated during learning and creativity.
The emerging science of spirituality is now entering the serious game field. Metanoic design by our team at Baycrest Health Sciences is being used for mass online gamified training with a $2M grant from the Ontario government.

February 11 | 4:00 pm-5:00 pm CST
Throwdown Competition

The GamiCon48V Throwdown is a global competition showcasing the most innovative gamified and game-based learning designs in L&D, HR, and Adult Education. Participants can explore and vote on groundbreaking projects, while expert judges determine who advances to the finals based on creativity, innovation, and measurable results.

February 11 | 5:00 pm-6:00 pm CST
Unfolding Complexity: Onboarding Made Right
A Game Garage Playshop with Javier Velasquez, Free2Play, Colombia

Chapter 7: Bridging Worlds
February 11 | 6:00 pm-11:00 pm CST

Join Jimbo Clark (Taiwan) and Sherry Prindle (USA) as they lead an evening of global exploration and transformative insights. This chapter delves into how gamification addresses real-world challenges, fosters cultural understanding, and inspires innovative learning and leadership solutions.

From engaging multi-event audiences and gamifying university experiences to leveraging game-based strategies for cultural alignment and business growth, these sessions highlight gamification's power to connect diverse perspectives and drive meaningful change.

Cap off the chapter with stories of success from KPMG’s global gamified sales training and a relaxed networking session. Participants will leave inspired and equipped to bridge gaps, build connections, and transform their learning environments. 

February 11 | 6:00 pm-6:30 pm CST
Jimbo Clark (Taiwan) and Sherry Prindle (USA)

A Conversation
How gamification is solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of learning and leadership.

February 11 | 6:30 pm-7:00 pm CST
Rebecca Arnett
United States

CyberQuest: or How to Engage and Keep Your Audience Engaged with Multiple Events
Tired of passive attendees? Want to transform your events from snooze-fests to thrilling adventures? This session will equip you with the power of gamification to captivate your audience and drive deeper engagement.

Discover how to:

• Boost audience participation: Transform lectures into interactive games, foster networking through playful challenges, and encourage active learning throughout the event.
• Increase event memorability: Create unforgettable experiences that attendees will rave about long after the event has concluded.
• Gather valuable data: Leverage game mechanics to collect valuable audience insights and measure the impact of your event.
• Build a strong community: Foster a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition among attendees, creating lasting connections.

This session will provide you with practical tips, real-world examples, and actionable strategies to seamlessly integrate gamification into your event planning. Leave inspired and equipped to create dynamic, engaging, and unforgettable experiences for your audience.

February 11 | 7:00 pm-8:00 pm CST
Zac Fitz-Walter
Australia

Game On: Designing Engaging and Educational Gamification for University Students
Discover how games and gamification can transform university orientation and classroom experiences into dynamic, engaging journeys that foster student connection, enhance learning, and help reduce attrition. In this interactive session, you’ll explore practical strategies and proven techniques to create gamified experiences that resonate with students. Drawing from real-world examples, this session will equip you with the tools to inspire collaboration, improve student satisfaction, and boost academic success through playful learning.

February 11 | 8:00 pm-9:00 pm CST
Suresh GP 
TaUB Solutions Pty Ltd
Australia

Gamification: Unearthing Cultural Shift and Business Behaviors
In today's interconnected world, cultural nuances and behavioral patterns play a significant role in shaping team dynamics and business success. This engaging session explores the power of gamification as a transformative tool to bridge cultural gaps, foster behavioral change, and drive measurable team performance improvements.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding Cultural Differences Across Geographies: Learn how gamification can reveal and navigate cultural intricacies, creating a unified approach to team collaboration and productivity.
2. Driving Behavioral Change Through Game-Based Learning: Discover how to design and implement game-based interventions that incentivize desired behaviors and create impactful, lasting changes.
3. Boosting Team Performance: Explore case studies and best practices demonstrating how gamification can enhance team performance, align goals, and move the needle on key business metrics.

Join this session to uncover actionable insights and innovative strategies to harness gamification for cultural alignment, motivation, and sustainable growth in diverse work environments. Whether you're a team leader, HR professional, or business strategist, this talk will equip you with tools to gamify success in your organization.

February 11, 9:00-9:30 pm CST
Vaughan O'Leary
KPMG
Australia

Gamifying Sales Training to Engage and Inspire
In this session, Vaughan will share the design of the KPMG Globerunner Cup tournament, share stories from those who benefitted from the training, and share insights collected over the year of running this global campaign.

The tournament brings together SMEs (for content) and people at all levels of the business. Not only does it have a community feel, but it works! Vaughan will share proven stories about how the players have contributed to growth after playing KPMG Globerunner.  

February 11, 9:30pm-10:00 pm CST

Connect, Converse, Network, Browse, and Break
Take a moment to recharge and connect! Use this time to engage in lighthearted conversations with fellow participants, explore the event platform, browse featured content, or simply step away to refresh and refocus. Whether networking or unwinding, this break is yours to enjoy.

February 11, 10:00pm - 11:00pm CST

Game Garage with Jimbo Clark
Thinking Inside and Outside the B❒X Experience
In this engaging and hands-on session, participants will embark on a four-step journey to redefine their thinking. Using a specially designed box as a metaphor for the invisible boundaries that limit creativity, you’ll customize your own box through interactive activities and reflections. Discover the valuable role your "thinking box" plays, explore the tension between present challenges and future possibilities, and expand the boundaries of your perspective. This session promises to spark creativity, foster self-awareness, and inspire innovative solutions for real-world problems.

Chapter 8: Horizons of Tomorrow
February 11, 11:00 pm - February 12, 4:00 am CST

Step into the future of gamification with Sami Al Herbawi (United Arab Emirates) and Jonathan Peters, PhD as they guide us through a chapter that blends visionary ideas with practical applications. From innovative discussions on how gamification addresses real-world challenges to interactive explorations of cutting-edge technologies, this chapter pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.

Discover how emerging tools like NFTs, XR, and the metaverse are reshaping learning experiences in "Gamification 3.0." Learn how these futuristic concepts, paired with gamification, will become vital for driving engagement and impact in tomorrow's world.

Cap off the session with opportunities to connect, discuss, and network with peers, and don't miss the chance to dive into the Game Garage to experience gamified solutions firsthand. Join us to chart the course for the future of learning and innovation! 

February 11, 11:00 pm-11:30 pm CST
Sami Al Herbawi, United Arab Emirates, and Jonathan Peters, PhD, United States

A Conversation
How gamification is solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of learning and leadership.

February 12, 11:30 pm  - Midnight CST

Yariv Erel

Podium X

Ramat Gan, Israel

Conversation Quests: Turn Dialogue into Play

Turning everyday conversations into engaging learning experiences is simpler than it might seem. At its core, gamifying a conversation requires embedding a real-time trigger system that uses AI to detect specific elements in the dialogue and shape how it unfolds. Think of triggers as checkpoints in a game - they could be moments of empathy, specific phrases, or even the timing of responses.
When someone engages in these gamified conversations, the AI monitors their interaction for these triggers while adapting the flow naturally, just like levels in a game becoming progressively more challenging. Transform routine training into an engaging experience where people genuinely enjoy developing their communication and soft skills.

February 12, 12:00 am-1:00 am CST

Namitha Vijayakumar
Beyond Walls Learning Solutions 
Bengaluru, India

Narrative Alchemy: Transforming Educational Themes into Engaging Gameplay

"A strong narrative gives players a reason to care, transforming a game from just mechanics into an emotionally resonant experience."
– Jane McGonigal, Reality Is Broken: Why Games Make Us

Through this interactive session, we explore some prompts and insights that can inspire your story world and game mechanics. Ultimately, the goal is to create a game that doesn’t feel like a lecture and instead allows players to interface with your impact theme of choice in entertaining, challenging, and compelling ways.

February 12, 1:00 am-2:00 am CST
Kerem Yazici
Gamfed Türkiye
Türkiye

A Glimpse into the Future: Gamification 3.0
Technology evolves so fast that our lives have become even faster. The opportunity to connect to the world with a touch of a finger brings so many chances to learn and experience life. Learning, gamification, and new technology will join forces in the future!
Experience the fundamentals of the metaverse and futuristic technologies such as NFT, XR, NFT, and Crypto, along with their use cases in the real world. How does gamification fit into these technologies? This session will explain the need for gamification with new technologies, which will be a necessity in the future.

February 12, 2:00am-2:30am CST
Oscar García Pañella, PhD, Serious Games Lab
Barcelona, Spain

Gamification in Health: Improving Adherence to Treatment Thanks to Greater Patient Engagement
This session delves into the synergy between gamification and healthcare, examining how game-based strategies can enhance patient engagement, improve educational experiences, and empower individuals throughout their medical journey. Dr. García-Pañella will present the core principles of gamification while outlining its advantages in the healthcare sector. Real-world examples of gamified interventions will be explored, including co-designed, personalized educational materials tailored to patients’ needs. The session will emphasize the need for clear communication and the balance between guidance and patient autonomy.

February 12, 2:30am-3:00 am CST

Connect, Converse, Network, Browse, and Break
Take a moment to recharge and connect! Use this time to engage in lighthearted conversations with fellow participants, explore the event platform, browse featured content, or simply step away to refresh and refocus. Whether networking or unwinding, this break is yours to enjoy.

February 12 | 3:00am-4:00 am CST
Gaminar Exclusive Game Garage

Gaminar is a revolutionary learning platform transforms webinars into dynamic, interactive experiences. Through cutting-edge gamification, Gaminar engages participants with immersive games, boosting collaboration and retention. Designed for today’s corporate needs, it bridges the gap between learning and doing, making each session productive and fun. Whether building leadership skills or fostering teamwork, Gaminar’s unique micro-games, like Unlock and Pixtory, ensure every minute counts. Get ready to elevate your learning and to experience Gaminar over this exciting hour. 

Chapter 9: Gamifying Innovation
February 12, 4:00 am - 9:00 am CST

Led by Moe Ash (Egypt) and Nada El-Egeimy (Egypt), this chapter embarks on a journey of creativity, problem-solving, and playful discovery. Uniting global perspectives, Chapter 9 explores how gamification and game-based learning fuel innovation across industries.

From cyberpunk-themed escape rooms for idea generation in Iran to role-playing mysteries in Portugal, this chapter delves into inventive strategies to drive engagement, collaboration, and skill development. With insights from thought leaders and interactive workshops, you’ll uncover actionable techniques to reshape learning experiences and spark innovation.

Get ready to explore the future of learning through play, uncover the power of character sheets for learner progress, and embrace the transformative impact of hybrid games. Whether you’re building engaging puzzles, enhancing organizational skills, or connecting with other forward-thinking professionals, this chapter offers tools and inspiration to reinvent your learning strategies.

The adventure concludes with a Game Garage session designed to bring these concepts to life, creating an engaging and immersive capstone experience.

February 12, 4:00 am-4:30 am CST
Moe Ash and Nada El-Egeimy 

A conversation on the transformative impact of hybrid games. 

February 12, 4:30 am-5:00 am CST
Kamran Hatami
Mr. Gamification
Iran

Using Games and AI to Enhance the Idea-Generation Process
By using escape rooms to enhance the idea-generation process, companies address their challenges. First, we create a cool cyberpunk-themed escape room, and then they enter the idea generation process, which is a process that focuses on concepts like dramatic questions, the Socratic method, and puzzle design.

February 12, 5:00 am-6:00 am CST
Helen Routledge
Totem Learning Limited 
United Kingdom

Play with Purpose: Why, How and When to Apply Game Thinking to Learning Design
This session explores how game thinking can transform learning design by leveraging game mechanics that drive motivation, engagement, and skill mastery. It highlights why game design is so powerful for learning and how game mechanics combine to build learner expertise.

The presentation offers practical strategies for turning mundane content into engaging experiences illustrating how gamification drives behaviour, helping attendees apply these insights to learning design.

Ultimately, this session demonstrates how playing with purpose creates learning that is not just more enjoyable, but more effective in driving long-term skill development.

February 12, 6:00 am-7:00 am CST
Julia Vidile, Portugal
Ségolène Trapletti, France

How to Get Away with Murder (As Long as it's a Learning Experience)
Whodunit is a serious game that mixes a Clue-type of game with role-playing. To "win" the game, participants need to team together and solve different puzzles that will teach them several kinds of skills.
In this session, we are going through the creation of a Whodunit-type game.

You will;

• Be able to understand the basic principles of a Whodunit game and apply them to a real-life situation in their organisation
• Be able to create or adapt different kinds of puzzles to use in a Whodunit game
• Be able to use real-life examples to create characters for their Whodunit game 

February 12, 7:00 am-7:30 am CST
Lavinia Tar
Luliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy
Romania

Engagement Made Visible: Using Character Sheets to Track Progress
Learn how to build character sheets and select game mechanics that align with specific learning objectives and behavioral goals while actively engaging adult learners and reinforcing positive growth.

From defining goals to choosing mechanics, you will gain hands-on experience designing simple systems using tailored character sheets that drive meaningful learning. Additionally, you will learn to design feedback loops that inspire reflection and growth, and leave with a personalized plan ready for immediate use or adaptation.

February 12, 7:30 am-8:00 am CST
Connect, Converse, Network, Browse, and Break
Take a moment to recharge and connect! Use this time to engage in lighthearted conversations with fellow participants, explore the event platform, browse featured content, or simply step away to refresh and refocus. Whether networking or unwinding, this break is yours to enjoy.

February 12, 8:00am-9:00 am CST
Game Garage: Evvive

Evivve’s unique and captivating sci-fi backdrop creates an immersive environment that effortlessly captures learner's attention and fosters genuine participation. The game appeal lies in the suspension of disbelief, where learners seamlessly immerse themselves in the game experience. This unique approach goes beyond traditional learning methods, as learners experience high engagement levels and enriching learning outcomes. Evivve's innovative utilization of a sci-fi setting isn't just an aesthetic choice, it's a strategic immersion tool that elevates the learning journey, making education not only informative but a compelling adventure. 

Chapter 10: Innovating at Scale
February 12 | 9:00 am-12:00 Noon CST
Hosted by Monica Cornetti (US) and Bernardo Letayf (Mexico)

As GamiCon48V nears its conclusion, Chapter 10 focuses on scaling gamification to new heights, challenging assumptions, and embracing cutting-edge technologies. Monica and Bernardo will guide participants through thought-provoking sessions that redefine the boundaries of gamification and game-based learning.

From deconstructing the essence of games to connecting agile mindsets with emotional intelligence, this chapter dives into the transformational potential of gamification. Explore how AI is revolutionizing learning design and discover strategies for scaling gamification across organizations. Conclude the journey by celebrating the 48-hour adventure with insights, inspiration, and an epic after-party celebration.

Get ready to think big, act boldly, and take your gamification strategies to a whole new level!

February 12 | 9:00 am-9:30 am CST
Alan D.A. Mattiassi
Italy

Un-Learning Games and Gamification
The concepts of "games" and "gamification" have become both ubiquitous and misunderstood. For many, these terms are locked into the concept of fun. But what if the real potential of games lies in evolutionary spaces? What if gamification happens to only be a byproduct of what we evolved to do in games? What if we challenged our way of thinking such that we could re-conceptualize what playing is for and how to gamify with full awareness of what is going on?

In this session, you will embark on a journey of un-learning to break free from the conventional and reductionist views of games and gamification. We’ll question what games are for and what it means to “gamify” an experience from an evolutionary perspective, considering what has been lost in the process of co-opting these concepts by business and education. Through critical examination, we’ll deconstruct the assumptions that underlie game mechanics and behaviors, revealing their deeper psychological and cultural significance.

February 12 | 9:30 am-10:00 am CST
Claudio Guz
Emotion en Juego SRL
Argentina

Agile & Digital Mindset, Games, and Emotions
In today’s rapidly changing world, organizations are turning to gamification as a tool for driving transformation. But what if the key to successful gamification lies at the intersection of Game-Based Learning, Agile Mindset, Digital Mindset, and emotional intelligence?

In this session, you will dive into how these four domains interact to shape the future of organizations. By connecting game dynamics to modern business philosophies, you will discover how to foster innovation, adaptability, and emotional resilience in your teams.

February 12 | 10:00 am-11:00 am CST
Michael Todd
Near-Life
United Kingdom

Harness the Power of AI for Gamified Learning
AI is changing the face of learning design. How can its power be harnessed to craft compelling, immersive experiences? Gain a good understanding of what AI tools are out there and how they can be utilized to build impactful gamified learning. From incorporating AI characters in games to using AI-generated media and stories, this session will have you thinking about AI and game design in a whole new way, as well as offering practical tips and actionable takeaways.

February 12 | 11:00 am-12:00 Noon CST
Keith Lillico, USA
Stephen Scheib, USA

Go Big or Go Home: Strategically Planning Gamification at Scale
In today’s corporate environment, organizations are increasingly utilizing gamification to boost engagement and learning outcomes, yet many face challenges due to fragmented efforts across teams. In this session, Stephen and Keith will provide a roadmap for developing a cohesive organization-wide gamification strategy that aligns with Learning and Development (L&D) goals and integrates with broader business objectives. Attendees will learn essential components of a successful strategy, effective methods for gaining stakeholder buy-in, and the critical role of instructional design in crafting impactful gamified experiences.

February 12 | 12:00 Noon-1:00 pm CST
THROWDOWN WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Game Garage: After-Party Celebration of 48 Hours