Jon Back, Designing Play in Public Places

My name is Jon Back, I'm a game design researcher, and a play consultant. My main area is designing for technology enhanced play outside of the computer. My focus is on how to create certain engagement, feelings and experiences in public places, through game activities.

Short background

My interest in the design of activities, with a game design focus, comes from a broad background. My education began in computer programming and design, from where I moved on towards communication with a pedagogical twist and games as my main tool. I've also studied game design in more practically oriented educations. I've designed both live action roleplaying games and published board games, both for serious use and for entertainment. I've got a great understanding of the practical approach of game design, and believe this will be of good use in my future research.