Gamification – the incorporation of game elements (points, levels, challenges) into non-game environments – has been increasingly applied in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education in recent times. In traditional language classrooms, students often experience boredom and anxiety due to rigorous exercises, which harms long-term motivation. In contrast, a gamified learning environment creates a positive atmosphere by introducing fun, competition, and choice, which can encourage participation. As noted in one review, games “reduce students' anxiety in practicing English, encouraging them to actively participate in academic tasks.” In other words, gamification transforms routine vocabulary or grammar exercises into engaging activities, naturally motivating students to speak and participate.

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Girón Chávez, A. J., Bermejo del Villar, M. M., Carrasco Pinot, G., Cruz Maldonado, E. Y., & Zamarrón, R. C. (2025). Teaching Grammar Through Games: An Effective Method for EFL Learning. Revista Lengua y Cultura, 6(12), 16–28.

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Rojabi, A. R., Setiawan, S., Munir, A., Purwati, O., Safriyani, R., & Hayuningtyas, N. (2022). Kahoot, Fun or Boring? Gamifying Vocabulary Learning to Improve Exam Scores, Engagement, and Motivation. Frontiers in Education, 7, 939884.

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Xu, B., Sibley, T., & Hamari, J. (2025). Exploring Gamification in EFL Teaching: A Systematic Review. Digital Education Review, 46, 123–150. (Cited in Al-Khresheh, 2024).