The terms “game” and “play” are often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct meanings and connotations.

The word “game” refers to a structured activity that has a set of rules and objectives. Games can be played alone or with others, and they often involve competition or strategy. Examples of games include chess, poker, and video games like Fortnite or Candy Crush. In general, games have a clear goal or endpoint that players are trying to reach, and they typically involve some form of challenge or obstacle that must be overcome in order to win.

On the other hand, “play” is a broader term that encompasses a wider range of activities. Play can refer to any activity that is undertaken for its own sake, without a specific goal or outcome in mind. Play can involve exploration, imagination, and creativity. Examples of play include free play in children, imaginative play such as playing with dolls, playing a musical instrument for enjoyment, or going for a walk in nature. Play is often spontaneous and unstructured, with no predetermined rules or objectives.

notes:

Many games incorporate elements of play, such as the creativity and imagination involved in designing new strategies or solving problems. Similarly, play can also incorporate elements of games, such as setting up imaginary rules or challenges to overcome.

Games can have a positive impact on cognitive development, including improvements in attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Games can also promote social interaction and teamwork, as players must communicate and collaborate to achieve a common goal. Games can provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when players are able to overcome challenges or achieve their objectives.

Play is important for emotional and social development. Play provides opportunities for children to explore their emotions, develop empathy and social skills, and develop their social behaviours. Play also allows for the development of creativity and imagination, which can be important for problem-solving and innovation.

In conclusion, while games and play may have different connotations, they are both important and valuable activities for individuals of all ages. Games provide structure and challenge, while play promotes creativity and exploration. Both can have important benefits for cognitive, social, and emotional development, and should be encouraged and supported in individuals of all ages. Taking into account that game is more structured and quite often has a competitive nature to it, play for sure would be the srudy focus of a design method.

Texts explored:

Peter Gray, Play as a Foundation for Hunter-Gatherer Social Existence,
online: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1069037.pdf

Brian Sutton-Smith, The Ambiguity of Play,
online: https://www.pgpedia.com/t/ambiguity-play

Melinda Wenner, The serious need for play,
online: https://www.jstor.org/stable/24940063?searchText=&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dplay&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&searchKey=&refreqid=fastly-default%3Ab7773dead9a4274d3a70a0b9209a5eb0