Game vs. gamification

Gamification in UX adds game-like features to non-game activities to make them more engaging. For example, a shopping app might give you points and rewards for making purchases or writing reviews. It’s about making tasks more fun and motivating without turning them into actual games.

A game, however, is designed purely for entertainment or educational purposes. It has rules, objectives, and often a storyline. For example, a video game like Minecraft is played for fun, with players building and exploring in a virtual world.

There is also another concept called a serious game, which is a full-fledged game designed for a purpose beyond entertainment. For example, a medical training game simulates surgeries to help doctors practice their skills. It's a complete game with rules and objectives, focused on learning or solving real-world problems.