Published 2026-09-29
Keywords
- Metaverse,
- Accessibility,
- Mountain sustainability,
- Game-based Design,
- Territorial Communication
How to Cite
Copyright (c) 2026 Carlotta Bin, Anna Osello
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Abstract
This study investigates the use of game-based design and metaverse environments as tools for mountain sustainability communication and inclusive access. Developed within the NODES – Digital and Sustainable Mountain framework, the research presents a mountain area as a case study to explore how immersive digital systems can support territorial interpretation without replicating physical reality. The project follows a Design Thinking methodology that integrates contextual analysis, data collection, user experience design, and iterative testing. The metaverse environment organises sustainability themes into interactive pathways aligned with the NODES flagship projects. A second application within an educational context tested the transferability of the same approach to inclusive scenarios involving physical and social vulnerability. Results suggest that carefully designed game-based immersive systems can enhance engagement, support experiential access, and contribute to sustainability communication. The study highlights the potential of immersive spaces as flexible infrastructures for territorial activation and inclusive learning.
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