When can an application be a game?

Question

Sometimes, game-like features in an application can make work fun. For example, Stack Overflow uses badges and points to coerce its users into doing work.

• What game-like features are transferable to applications?
• What kinds of applications are appropriate for game-like features?
• Why are game-like features uncommon in applications?

Answer 1

Flashing lights and other shiny stuff. Good games are loaded with colour and give the same pleasant stimulation as watching fireworks.