Game simulation “The City Started by You”

Abstract

This article examines the scenario of game simulation “The City Started by You”. The game represents an information platform built on the basis of online game, where the players select a city they would like live in and the services they would like to use. The players are also given the opportunity to discuss and make management decisions regarding the development of their city. The game touches upon such questions as solidarity in society, meaning of paying taxes, value of local democracy, proactive budgeting, and implementation of direct online democracy. The game is aimed at the development of the skills for classification of the topical issues and separate delegated authority, liaising between the authorities and officials of the city’s self-governance and the residents, as well as engagement of city residents in urban management. The computer game not only calculates the consequences of the made by the student management decisions, but also takes into account the factors of the internal and external environment. It is noted that this game can be used as educational in schools and universities, as well as for increasing information transparency between the executive branches and municipal officials. The latter would require conducing educational online games within the framework of group classes with the municipal officials. The use of remote technologies built on the basis of game simulation “The City Started by You” allows to consider and analyze alternate solutions of topical issues, work out spatial development strategies, and form project thinking. Game simulator Constant improvements in the area of ensuring transparency of the local self-governance is essential for increasing public confidence in the local authorities, effective solution of topical issues, and successful conduct of the reforms.