Gamifying Indigenous Language Preservation

Client: The Language Conservatory (TLC)

Services: Educational Game Design, UI/UX Modernization, Unity Development

Platform: iOS, Android

Executive Summary

In partnership with The Language Conservatory (TLC), a non-profit dedicated to the revitalization of endangered languages, Ocean View Games developed a suite of interactive learning tools designed to engage a digital-native generation.

While TLC provided the linguistic expertise and cultural guidance, Ocean View Games provided the technical architecture to transform static vocabulary lists into dynamic, retention-focused mini-games. This project stands as a prime example of our SME-driven development process—translating complex academic requirements into intuitive gameplay loops.

The Challenge: “Bridging the Generational Gap”

Language preservation faces a critical hurdle: traditional learning materials (textbooks, flashcards) often fail to engage younger audiences. TLC needed a solution that was:

• Engaging: It had to compete for attention.
• Accurate: With endangered languages, there is no room for error in spelling or pronunciation.
• Scalable: The framework needed to support multiple languages and vast vocabulary sets without requiring a complete code rewrite for every update.

The Solution: A Modular “Serious Game” Framework

1. Gamification of Learning Mechanics

We didn’t just digitize flashcards; we built 9 distinct mini-games, each targeting a specific cognitive retention skill.

The Design: By consulting with TLC’s linguistic experts, we mapped game mechanics to learning outcomes. For example, audio-matching games were built to reinforce listening comprehension, while drag-and-drop spelling games focused on orthography.

Agency Application: We understand that in “Serious Games,” fun must serve the educational goal. We don’t just add points and badges; we design mechanics that reinforce the subject matter.

2. Scalable Asset Pipelines for EdTech

Handling thousands of audio clips and image assets for multiple languages can easily become a logistical nightmare.

The Tech: Ocean View Games engineered a data-driven asset pipeline. This allowed the linguistic experts at TLC to provide spreadsheets and raw audio files, which our system automatically parsed and populated into the game engine.

The Result: This drastically reduced “developer friction.” The experts could focus on the content, and our code handled the implementation.

3. Collaborative UI/UX Design

Designing for cultural preservation requires sensitivity. The interface needed to be modern and clean, yet respectful of the indigenous art styles and imagery provided by TLC.

The Process: We established a rapid feedback loop with the client, iterating on UI mockups to ensure the visual language aligned with the cultural identity of the user base while maintaining accessibility standards (large text, clear contrast).

The Outcome: Modernizing Tradition

The Vocab Builder project successfully replaced outdated legacy applications with a polished, Unity-based experience that runs smoothly on modern devices.

High Engagement: Shifted the learning model from passive reading to active participation.

Cultural Accuracy: Delivered a product that met the rigorous academic standards of The Language Conservancy.

Future-Proof Tech: Built on a Unity codebase that allows for easy updates as new vocabulary is documented.

Why Hire Ocean View Games for Education?

We bridge the gap between Subject Matter Experts and Game Development. You bring the curriculum; we bring the engagement.

• We speak “Non-Technical”: We have a proven track record of collaborating with academics, non-profits, and training organizations.
• We build for Scale: Our data-driven architectures mean you can expand your content library without breaking your budget.

Have an educational curriculum you need to gamify? Let’s build it.