I played EteRNA for this assignment, which is an online game created by Adrien Treuille and Jeehyung Lee intended to educate players about how RNA forms, what pairs of bases go together and which don’t, and how different strengths of bonds can create different structures. As a player, you are given a series of bases and an intended shape for them to take, and then you must change the pair until they meet the given constraints and the given shape.
This game uses mainly skill-based play since the player must learn basic mechanics, like knowing all four bases and the strength of the three possible base pair combinations, then use and improve their deduction skills to connect the RNA into the intended shape. It also employs some cooperative play with the inclusion of a live chat feature if you need assistance on a particular puzzle and a wiki for the same reason. People can build friendships or working relationships with other players while learning about RNA.
The MDAO framework buildes on the MDA framework by adding “Outcomes”, which is crucial for creating games with specific educational purposes like EteRNA. In this game, the mechanics revolve around solving folding puzzles based on the chemical properties and interactions of nucleotide bases. The mechanics teach players through problem-solving and give hints and feedback throughout. The dynamics of the game emerge as players solve puzzles and figure out the correct combination through trial and error, developing strategies as players continue. The aesthetic experience includes the sense of accomplishment that players feel when solving a puzzle and helping others reach the same goal through community interaction. Finally, the outcome of the game is educational and scientific, allowing players to learn about RNA folding and contribute to research real scientists are doing.
