Dataset of urban nature games to aid integrating nature-based solutions in urban planning

Abstract

This dataset of Urban Nature Games provides information, ratings, and categorizations of different types of games that incorporate concepts of urban planning and ecosystem services or nature-based solutions. It consists of games retrieved from systematic searches on various search engines and public databases, using keywords related to: urban design and planning; ecosystem services and nature-based solutions; and game-based approaches. Recorded meta information includes game names, developers, links to each game's documentation, relevant publications, as well as generic playing information such as play duration, number of players, target group, distribution format, play mode, and costs. Of the 69 games compiled, 37 games have been rated of “high” to “medium” relevance based on their descriptions, and have been further assessed and categorized based on a framework incorporating concepts of urban planning and nature-based solutions, the game's scope, and practice. Among the 22 “high” relevance games, 41% can and have been used to engage multiple stakeholders, and 36% to engage citizens and communities. This data article relates to the research article entitled “Urban Nature Games for integrating nature-based solutions in urban planning: a review”, and presents a more detailed, editable version of the dataset. The purpose is to provide a hands-on resource for educators, practitioners, and researchers to directly enable them to select their most suitable games linking ecosystem services and nature-based solutions with urban planning.