Gamification for digital preservation awareness: Encouraging public engagement with digital archives through game design

This study explores the integration of gamification elements into digital archives to enhance public engagement and digital preservation. Through a systematic literature review and analysis of case studies, it examines the application of game design principles to enhance user interaction and satisfaction. The research underscores the transformative potential of gamification in addressing challenges related to accessibility, participation, and user retention. Findings reveal that gamified elements like narratives, challenges, and reward systems significantly improve user experiences while promoting active participation. Ethical considerations and inclusivity in design emerge as critical factors for sustainable implementation. The study introduces a framework for selecting gamification strategies tailored to archival goals and user demographics. This work offers actionable insights for archivists and digital curators to reimagine archives as interactive and engaging spaces.