The focus of Module A was on analysing potential goal and action conflicts within an abstracted region. At its core, the module explored the extent to which playing through different scenarios could influence participants’ perspectives. To this end, information and data on existing and potential conflict fields were collected in collaboration with stakeholders and associations from the Eifel-Rur and Maas-South catchment areas. The aim was to identify recurring patterns and translate them into an abstract, flexibly adaptable serious game. This game was designed to illustrate possible future developments in catchment areas and to foster exchange and discussion among participants during play.
KEY RESEARCH QUESTIONS
The study was guided by several central questions:
- What typical conflicts currently exist in this (sub-)catchment area?
- Which conflicts are likely to emerge in the future?
- How do the decisions of individual actors affect the overall?
- To what extent can indicators make complex interdependencies visible?
INVOLVED STAKEHOLDER GROUPS
The development and implementation of the serious game involved industry and water associations, the Chamber of Agriculture, researchers, municipal administrations, and environmental organisations, among others. This diversity of perspectives enabled real conflicts of interest and potential solutions to be integrated into the game mechanics, thereby creating practice-oriented scenarios.
PartiCIPatory Modeling
A central element of the project was participatory modelling. In addition to scientific data and theoretical frameworks, the knowledge and experience of the participating stakeholders were actively incorporated. Through a series of interviews, workshops, and game reflection sessions, the serious game was iteratively refined. This participatory process resulted in a model that was both scientifically robust and practically relevant. Participants contributed to the model structure, discussed assumptions, and helped ensure that the outcomes were transparent and comprehensible.
KEY INSIGTHS
The serious game provided valuable insights into the dynamics of decision-making processes in complex systems. It revealed how different interests intersect, which lines of conflict become visible, and which solution approaches can emerge through joint exchange. Moreover, it highlighted the importance of transparency and clarity in fostering constructive dialogue among stakeholders with diverse backgrounds.
The scenarios explored in the case study demonstrated that considering both consequences and “consequences of consequences” not only made existing conflicts more visible but also opened up new perspectives. These reflections generated additional modelling ideas, which further advanced the serious game and enhanced its adaptability to different contexts.
CONCLUSION
Developing the serious game highlighted how complex systems are shaped by decisions and the importance of considering both direct and indirect consequences. By involving a wide range of stakeholders and focusing on indicators, a flexible and open instrument was created that stimulated discussion, broadened perspectives, and revealed potential courses of action.
We thank all participating stakeholders and organisations for their valuable contributions to the development of the serious game.