Usefulness of “game-like” characteristics in an educational board game.

Games are increasingly being used in healthcare education. We aimed to establish how students perceived the ‘game-like characteristics’ (Challenge, Curiosity, Control, Fantasy, Iteration and Reflection) in an educational board game. Students enjoyed playing the game and recognised most of the characteristics in our game which they felt enhanced rather than detracted from their learning. When educational games are developed, they should include all the game-like characteristics described.