The Serious Side of Games: Unlocking Strategic Thinking

In recent years, the perception of games has evolved from mere entertainment to powerful tools for learning, training, and strategic thinking. While games are often associated with fun and leisure, their serious applications extend far beyond entertainment. From military simulations to leadership training, games have become essential tools for honing critical skills and decision-making abilities. Here, I'll explore why games are considered serious business and explore how they are utilised to train their teams and leaders effectively.

Military Simulations: Learning Through War Games

The military has long recognised the value of simulations and war games in training their forces. These simulations replicate real-world scenarios, allowing soldiers to practice tactics, strategy, and decision-making in a controlled environment. Through immersive experiences, soldiers and leaders can sharpen their skills, understand the consequences of different actions, and collaborate effectively with their teams.

If anyone is old enough to have seen the cult classic War Games released in 1983. A high school student David Lightman (Matthew Broderick) unwittingly hacks into a military supercomputer while searching for new video games. After starting a game of Global Thermonuclear War, Lightman leads the supercomputer to activate the nation's nuclear arsenal in response to his simulated threat as the Soviet Union. He then needs to play the computer at its own game, the movie culminates in a game of tic-tac-toe to show the supercomputer, that some games like nuclear war and tic-tac-toe, do not have a winner.

The U.S. military extensively uses simulators like the Close Combat Tactical Trainer (CCTT) and Virtual Battlespace (VBS) to train troops in combat situations. These simulations not only enhance individual skills but also promote teamwork, adaptability, and crisis management—all crucial elements of effective military operations.

The Power of Game-Based Learning: What makes games such effective learning tools?

One key factor is their ability to engage participants actively. Unlike traditional training methods, games offer a hands-on approach where individuals can apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, receive instant feedback, and iterate their strategies.

Moreover, games encourage experimentation and risk-taking in a safe environment. Players can explore different strategies, learn from failures, and refine their approaches without real-world consequences. This iterative process fosters continuous improvement and adaptability—a hallmark of effective leadership and decision-making.

As businesses navigate complex challenges in today's dynamic environment, the role of games in training and development continues to grow. By harnessing the immersive and interactive nature of games, organisations can equip their teams and leaders with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

Games are not just about entertainment

They represent a powerful paradigm for learning, training, and skill development. From military simulations that hone combat readiness to gamified leadership programs in corporate settings, games offer a unique platform to cultivate critical thinking, collaboration, and strategic decision-making. As industries embrace the serious side of games, the future of training and development promises to be immersive, engaging, and highly effective.

References:

1. U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command. "Close Combat Tactical Trainer (CCTT)."