Towards a Hopeful Future: A Literature Review of Gamified and Game-Based Approaches in Sustainability Education

Abstract

As eco-anxiety and feelings of powerlessness intensify, sustainability education faces the challenge of not only informing but also empowering individuals with the belief that meaningful action is possible. This paper explores the role of gamification and game based learning in fostering hope and agency in the context of education for sustainable development. Using Snyder’s Hope Theory as a guiding framework, the literature review highlights how gamified and game based interventions can encourage goal-setting, pathway thinking and agency—key components for sustaining engagement and inspiring action. A systematic review of literature from 2021 to September 2024 reveals that while existing approaches can effectively enhance knowledge and short-term motivation, fewer interventions focus on long-term behavioral change or developing competencies like systems thinking and anticipatory skills. In conclusion, these findings point to the need for implementation of more robust and longitudinal research to ensure that initial enthusiasm translates into lasting contributions toward sustainability goals.