Publication date: June, 2025
Author(s): Giel Hekkert 8D | Research + Design = Impact
Sommario
Building the Leftover Challenge Game: From Concept to Classroom
The Leftover Challenge project has reached the final stage. What began as a creative idea to help students learn about food waste has become a complete and classroom-ready tool. This interim article shares the journey of how the game was developed, tested and refined with input from students, teachers and partners across five European countries.
A Step-by-Step Development Process
The game was developed through a clear process that allowed space for creativity and feedback.
Learning from the WP2 Best Practices Report
The early findings from WP2 helped shape the game from the start. The report highlighted the need for:
- Hands-on learning across different subjects
- Simple language and clear visuals
- Activities that can include families and the wider community
We kept these needs in mind during every step of development. Each module is practical, engaging, and easy to integrate into existing lessons.
Game design and content creation
We began by designing a flexible, analogue version of the game. The goal was to keep it simple and adaptable, with room for hybrid use in the future. We wrote content for each module and created visual mockups to test ideas early on.
First prototype and testing
The first paper prototype was tested with students aged 8 to 12. Teachers from all countries followed the same guidelines, allowing us to collect useful and consistent feedback.
Based on what we learned, we improved the visuals and instructions. We also introduced clearer learning goals and updated the flow of each module.
Second prototype and iteration
The second round of testing confirmed that the changes made the game easier to use and more engaging. Students showed a stronger understanding of the activities, and teachers felt more confident leading the sessions.
Finalization and translation
We are now finalizing translated materials in six languages. The user guide is in the final review phase and will include clear steps for teachers to follow. Once complete, the game will be printed and distributed in each partner region.
Strengthening core game mechanics
During the testing we had two big challenges regarding the core game mechanics.
From engagement to calibration
Students were enthusiastic and curious throughout both testing rounds. Younger children needed more guidance, while older students finished quickly and wanted more challenge. To address this, we added optional extensions and flexible prompts that allow teachers to adjust difficulty as needed.
Score logic and concept clarity
Students had questions about how scores were set, especially for taste and carbon footprint. We decided to keep the scores simple and stable. The reasoning behind the scores will be clearly explained in the user guide. We also improved icons and visuals to help students make sense of the scoring at a glance.
Improving the (game) experience
Next to a lot of small changes there were some significant adjustments made that improved the (game) experience significantly.
From Figma to Google Docs
After testing with the partners and teachers we came to the conclusion that Figma wouldn’t be a simple enough tool for people to adjust the content for the game. Not wanting to use a paid tool like Canva we opted in to redesign the modules and cards by pushing Google Docs to its technical limits so future users can adapt the material to their needs.
Map design in Module 2
Many students struggled with the layout and instructions in the geography module. To help them, we simplified the exercise. Students now start by marking their own country and then choosing a non-local food. We also removed confusing questions like “making stops in” to reduce misunderstandings.
Old worksheet design: Module 2
New worksheet design: Module 2
Reducing paper use
Teachers noted that using one worksheet per student per activity used a lot of paper. We addressed this by offering suggestions in the user guide for reusing materials. Laminated worksheets and digital use are also being explored. We ended up reducing the required paper for the cards from 6 pages to 4 pages, while improving the design and readability.
Cultural sensitivity and localization
Some students assumed all food was local. Others had trouble with the idea of typical and non-typical food. To support different perspectives, we included regional examples and story prompts. The full game will be available in each local language to improve access and understanding.
New visuals
During the testing of Paper Prototype 2, it became clear that food shape and context mattered more to students for the discussion and ripeness was creating confusion. This led to the development of a broader set of illustrations, focused on shape instead of ripeness, that better reflects real-world food diversity.
Example of the old visuals with focus on ripeness
Example of the new visuals with focus on shape
Supporting teachers with clear instructions
During testing the need for the user guide became really clear. We want teachers to have tools and feel prepared and supported when using the game in class. Based on the feedback during game development, we made sure the user guide will provide tips for each module, including:
- How to explain difficult terms like “carbon footprint”
- Ways to adjust tasks for different age groups
- Ideas for using the game across subjects like math and geography
What’s next
The game is finished. Translations are nearly complete. The teacher guide is almost ready. Once these last pieces are done, each country will receive printed copies of the game. Teachers will soon have everything they need to bring the Leftover Challenge into their classrooms. Students will be invited to explore where their food comes from, how they can reduce waste, and why their everyday choices matter.
Final thoughts
Building the Leftover Challenge game was a team effort. From early sketches to final translations, every step was shaped by feedback from real students and teachers. We’re proud of the result. The game is understandable, fun, meaningful and ready to inspire new conversations about food, sustainability, and the future.
Stay tuned for the official rollout. We can’t wait to see the impact this game will have!
