Game of Traits

Dive into a drop of water and experience the world of plankton! Equip yourself with traits. Fight microscopic monsters. Survive environmental challenges. Cooperate with others…but remember, there can only be one winner!

This serious game explains the concept of trait-based ecology, while also sharing our fascination for the world of plankton. It is a card game where players represent different algal groups. By using trait cards, players have a better chance to survive abiotic or biotic stressors. It is a competitive game where players can help but also sabotage each other.

The game has been developed for teaching about trait-based ecology ad plankton (but can of course also be played just for fun!). The game is played in groups of 3-4 persons, and can be introduced using the instruction video. After having played the game (usually two rounds), various concepts in the game can be discussed. You can find the instruction video below, as well as the link for downloading the teaching materials.

If you are interested in getting your own Game of Traits card packs, you can purchase these using the ordering form. Costs are 15 euros per pack (excl. shipping costs), with a minimum order of two packs. The funds raised by the sales of this game are used to cover the printing and developing costs. You can also download the PDF of the full game for free (see Downloads; recommend printing on 180 g A4 or more). For teaching, we also provide a list of questions that can be used as concept check of the topics covered in the game, and a lecture on trait-based ecology and phytoplankton.