How video games help language learning

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Reading time: 6 minutes

The evolution of video games and global connectivity

Video games have come a long way since their inception in the late 20th century. From the simple pixelated screens of 'Pong' and 'Space Invaders', we've entered an era where video games are complex, immersive and incredibly detailed. The evolution of video games has not only been technological but also cultural.

With the rise of the internet and online gaming, players from different corners of the world can now connect, collaborate and compete in real-time. This global connectivity has transformed video games into a social platform, where language barriers are often encountered and interestingly, overcome.

Language learning and video games
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The role of video games in language learning

The traditional methods of language learning—textbooks, classroom instruction and language labs—are being complemented by more interactive and engaging tools. Video games have emerged as a surprisingly effective medium for language acquisition. The immersive nature of video games, combined with their interactive elements, makes them an excellent tool for learning new languages. Here are a few ways in which video games facilitate language learning:

Contextual learning: Unlike traditional methods that often rely on rote memorization, video games provide contextual learning. Players are immersed in a virtual world where they must use language to navigate, solve problems and interact with other characters or players.

Motivation and engagement: The gamified nature of video games keeps players motivated and engaged. The desire to progress in the game encourages players to learn and understand the language used within the game.

Real-time communication: Many online multiplayer games require real-time communication with other players. This necessitates the use of language skills, often in a second language, to coordinate actions and strategies.

Increased outlets for multilingual communication

One of the most significant impacts of video games on global communication is the sheer number of outlets they provide for interacting with speakers of different languages. In the past, opportunities for language practice were often limited to classroom settings, travel, or pen-pal programs. Today, video games have dramatically expanded these opportunities, creating a vibrant, multilingual community where language learning can thrive.

Online multiplayer platforms

Online multiplayer platforms like Xbox Live, PlayStation Network and Steam host millions of players from around the world. These platforms facilitate communication through voice chat, text messaging and in-game interactions.

Games like Fortnite, Overwatch and League of Legends have massive international player bases, meaning that players are frequently paired with teammates or opponents who speak different languages. This constant exposure to diverse linguistic environments encourages players to practice and improve their language skills.

Social media integration

Many video games now integrate with social media platforms, allowing players to share their experiences, form communities and communicate outside of the game. Platforms like Discord, Reddit and various game-specific forums provide additional spaces for multilingual interaction.

These communities often include language-specific channels where players can seek help, share tips, or simply chat in their target language, further enhancing their learning experience.

Esports and streaming

The rise of esports and game streaming has also contributed to the multilingual communication landscape. Professional gamers and streamers often interact with a global audience, providing commentary, tutorials and live interactions in multiple languages. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube Gaming enable viewers to engage with content creators and fellow viewers in real-time.

An example of communication in team-based games

One example of language learning through video games is found in team-based games like 'Sea of Thieves'. This is a multiplayer pirate adventure game that relies heavily on teamwork and communication.

In 'Sea of Thieves' players take on the roles of pirates sailing the high seas, searching for treasure and battling other pirate crews. The game requires players to work together to sail their ship, manage supplies and engage in combat. Effective communication is crucial for success.

Imagine a scenario where a team of players from different linguistic backgrounds must work together to sail their ship. One player speaks Spanish, another speaks English and a third speaks French. To navigate effectively, they must communicate instructions such as "raise the anchor," "lower the sails," or "fire the cannons." This situation creates a natural and urgent need for language skills, pushing players to learn and use new vocabulary in real-time.

Another aspect is the potential for negotiation and diplomacy. When encountering another pirate ship, players may have the option to negotiate rather than engage in combat. This requires players to communicate clearly and effectively, often in a language that is not their first. Phrases like "Let's form an alliance," "We come in peace," or "Do you need supplies?" become essential tools for survival and success.

The benefits of language learning through video games

One of the most compelling reasons why language learning in video games can be more enjoyable and effective is the practical need to communicate clearly and efficiently. Unlike traditional learning environments where the practical application of language skills can sometimes feel abstract or distant, video games provide immediate, tangible reasons to use a new language.

In team-based games, clear communication often directly correlates with success. A well-coordinated team that can effectively communicate is more likely to win than a team that struggles with language barriers. This creates a strong incentive for players to learn and use the language of their teammates.

A team that can communicate clearly will be able to execute complex maneuvers, coordinate attacks and manage more effectively than a team that cannot. This practical, real-world application of language skills makes learning more engaging and rewarding. Players are not just learning for the sake of learning; they are learning to win, to achieve goals and to enjoy the game more fully.

The benefits of learning languages through video games extend beyond the virtual world. Here are a few key advantages:

Improved listening and speaking skills: Real-time communication in multiplayer games enhances listening and speaking skills, as players must quickly understand and respond to their teammates. that MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) can significantly improve listening and speaking abilities in a second language.

Cultural awareness: Playing with individuals from different countries exposes players to various cultures and dialects, fostering a sense of global awareness and empathy. can serve as rich sites for intercultural communication and learning.

Problem-solving and critical thinking: The need to solve problems and strategize in a foreign language enhances cognitive skills, making players more adept at thinking on their feet. , where players develop problem-solving skills within meaningful contexts.

Increased vocabulary and grammar: Regular interaction in a second language helps players build their vocabulary and understand grammatical structures in a practical context. The interactive and immersive nature of for vocabulary acquisition and grammatical development.

The future of language learning and video games

As video games continue to evolve and become even more integrated into our daily lives, their potential as tools for language learning will only grow. The interactive and immersive nature of video games makes them an ideal platform for acquiring new languages in a fun and engaging way.

Certain games demonstrate how real-time communication and teamwork can break down language barriers, fostering a sense of global connectivity and cooperation.

Read our blog posts 'Why learning a language is better than using machine translation' and 'Games and puzzles to level up language learning'.

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    Generative AI enhances productivity

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    • Always review and adapt the AI output to match your learners’ context, culture and curriculum.
    • Create a prompt library mapped to GSE codes to save time in future planning.

    A step-by-step example of the GSE and AI in action

    Here is a typical application of the workflow:

    1. A teacher selects a GSE objective, such as:
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    2. Within seconds, a sample formal email, accompanied by a short reading comprehension task and a vocabulary activity, is generated.
    3. The reading task serves as a model to help learners analyze the structure, tone, and key language features of a well-written email before attempting their own.
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    Overcoming challenges: Ensuring quality and relevance

    Challenge: AI outputs may lack cultural context, level appropriateness or instructional clarity.
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    Challenge: Teachers may be unfamiliar with how to write effective AI prompts.
    Solution: Start simple with templates like:

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    Challenge: Risk of over-relying on AI for instruction.
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    1. How do I establish effective classroom management and routines?

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    2. How can I build strong relationships with my students?

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    For primary and elementary school children (Ages 5–11)

    1. Set a consistent sleep and waking schedule and stick to it

    • Action:At least one week before school starts, set a firm wake-up and bedtime, including a shut-off time for screens – ideally an hour before bedtime.Find soothing activities to help your child relax before bed: for example, if their bedtime is 8:00 pm, you could start the wind-down routine at 7:00 pm by reading a favourite story together and listening to peaceful music. Some children wake naturally, others struggle to get up and may need an alarm clock to help them.
    • Enforcement:Remember to stick to the bedtime routine: no exceptions on school nights.

    2. Practice the morning routine

    • Action: Do a rehearsal of the school morning: getting dressed, eating breakfast, brushing teeth, and being ready to leave the house on time. If your child is attending a new school, it may reassure them to rehearse the journey in advance.
    • Enforcement: Use a visual checklist on the fridge to help your child track which tasks need to be done. Some families prefer no screens at all in the morning, but if you have morning screentime then ensure there's no TV or devices until all tasks are complete.

    3. Organize school supplies together

    • Action: Label all supplies in advance. Take the time every evening to pack their schoolbag together each evening.
    • Enforcement:Let your child be responsible for checking off a packing list before bed. If they forget something, if appropriate and within reason, you could let them experience the natural consequence.

    4. Establish a homework zone

    • Action: Set up a specific, distraction-free spot for homework.
    • Enforcement:Ensure that homework happens before playtime or screen time. Use a timer if needed to keep them focused: most children find it easier to concentrate for a finite period rather than an infinite one (for example, "work until the timer goes off in 15 minutes" is easier for a child to respond to than "work until you've completely finished your homework").

    5. Practice independence

    • Action: Teach your child tasks that are appropriate for their age and ability: for example, this could include tieing their shoelaces, zipping up their coat and opening their lunchbox.
    • Enforcement:Don't rush to help if they struggle at first. Remind them of the steps, help them if they need, support them all the way. Praise their effort, even if they can't yet do the task perfectly.

    For middle school children (Ages 11–14)

    1. Use a family calendar

    • Action: Post a large calendar in a common area. Mark it with assignment due dates, tests and extracurricular activities.
    • Enforcement: Review the calendar together every Sunday. Give your child the resopnsibility of updating it with new info from school.

    2. Set device rules

    • Action:Devices should not be in the bedroom overnight: set up device charging points somewhere outside bedrooms, for example in the kitchen, to prevent temptation. Set a “no screens” rule during homework and set a time to switch screens off every evening, preferably an hour before bedtime.
    • Enforcement:If need be, use parental controls or apps to limit screen time. Devices could also be handed in at a set time each night.

    3. Encourage self-advocacy

    • Action: If your child has a problem at school, support them in resolving it. Don't rush to solve the problem for them, ask them how they could approach the issue and guide them towards a good solution. If need be, coach them on how to email a teacher or ask for help in person.
    • Enforcement: Don’t step in immediately – give them the space and support to devise a possible solution. Support and coach as needed to build their confidence in handling the situation themselves.

    4. Make packing lunch their job

    • Action: Teach your child to pack their own lunch the night before.
    • Enforcement: If they forget to prepare or bring it, choose the response that's safe and appropriate for your chld's age and abilities. It might be that you need to remind them, or it might be that they need to experience natural consequences and buy their own lunch.

    5. Set clear after-school expectations

    • Action: Decide together what happens after school: for example, they might want to have a snack before they start their homework, and they might want to do their chores after dinner.
    • Enforcement:Together, set the rules that are right for your child. For example, no video games or social media until homework and chores are done.

    For high-school students (ages 14–18)

    1. Require a weekly planning session

    • Action: Sit down every Sunday to review the week ahead. Consider deadlines, activities and work shifts and plan accordingly.
    • Enforcement: If your teen misses a deadline, if appropriate, let them handle the consequences with teachers or coaches.

    2. Enforce a “No-phone zone” during study time

    • Action:Ensure that phones are placed in another room during homework.
    • Enforcement: Use apps that block distracting sites or physically remove the phone.

    3. Set a reasonable curfew, even for seniors

    • Action: Agree on a curfew for school nights and weekends.
    • Enforcement:If the curfew is broken, discuss consequences and follow through. For example, if your teen is one hour late home, the next time they must come home an hour early.

    4. Expect participation in household responsibilities

    • Action:Discuss how to split household chores. Some teenagers prefer to take responsibility for a particular chore, such as doing the dishes. Other families may need to split regular chores such as laundry,cleaning and emptying the bin.
    • Enforcement: No privileges such as car keys and allowance until chores are done.

    5. Monitor academic progress, but don’t micromanage

    • Action: Check grades and other school feedback together regularly. Ask about upcoming tests and projects.
    • Enforcement: If their grades slip, find out if there's an underlying reason and offer support. Your child may require a study plan or a limit on their extracurricular activities until improvement is shown.

    Universal tips for all ages

    • Consistent mealtimes: Eat a meal together regularly, if your schedules allow. Some families meet for breakfast, others for dinner. Make sure your child is not skipping meals, especially on school days.
    • Limit extracurricular overload: One or two activities per term is plenty. Be sure to protect their downtime.
    • Model organization: Use lists, calendars and reminder apps and show your chldren how they help you stay organized.
    • Open communication: Have a daily check-in if possible. Ask about the best and most challenging parts of their day.

    Returning to school doesn't have to be stressful for children: it's a great opportunity for them to learn new skills and develop their confidence. Finding rules and routines that work for your child, and enforcing them consistently, will encourage your child's sense of responsibility and boost their skills – benefiting them both inside and outside the classroom.