Tags
| Industry |
Technology |
|---|---|
| Client |
Microsoft |
| Topic(s) |
Cybersecurity |
| Software |
The Training Arcade® ReactJS |
| Studio |
The Game Agency |
| Approved to Share | No |
Goal
Microsoft wanted to build a hands-on, gamified multiplayer experience that would allow intermediate-level data engineers, data scientists, and data analysts to practice and validate their technical skills.
Solution
An immersive story-based game that challenges Data & AI professionals to use their skills to help a specialized consulting firm develop data-driven solutions to critical world problems.
In this simulated environment, players take on the role of a data engineer, data scientist, or data analyst. Players must grasp and make sense of the data that's been collected to make each new initiative into a reality. They complete tasks that will lead them to a data-driven solution and generate the power needed to run the firm's insight machine.
The game includes multiple episodes that can be played separately or bundled together. Players can engage with episodes collaboratively during a facilitator-led event or independently as a solo player experience.
During each episode, players apply what they know to solve real-world problems:
Animated videos introduce and develop the characters and the story.
Players complete hands-on simulations and mini-games that represent real-life tasks in a data workflow.
Non-player characters provide feedback and engage players in the story.
After completing a task, players unlock upgrades to the insight machine that will complete its circuitry and turn raw data into useful insights.
Players may replay tasks to find optimal food-waste solutions.
During multiplayer events, players collaborate on their approach and share their insights.
At the end of each episode, players work together to answer critical questions based on their data-driven insights.
The game provides a challenging but safe space for players to validate their skills and develop their technical expertise. As players see the impacts of their choices, they develop greater proficiency in swiftly managing swathes of data into powerful insights and predictive models. By completing different tasks to varying degrees of success, players improve their data processes, reveal new insights in critical issues, and develop the technical skills needed to be a driving force behind solutions to critical world problems. They also gain a greater appreciation for other peoples’ roles and the importance of effective communication and collaboration.
The game underwent extensive user testing and development to adhere to both WCAG 2.1 and Microsoft’s own accessibility standards. The final game supports users with a wide range of disabilities including vision, mobility, and cognitive issues.