Serious Games for English Language Learning: A Scoping Review

Serious games serve as increasingly vital instruments for English language learning, fostering student engagement and facilitating the acquisition of vocabulary and grammar. An analysis of 77 scientific articles published between 2020 and 2024 reveals that while the field has experienced fluctuating growth with peaks in 2022 and 2024, the research remains heavily concentrated within higher education settings. Geographically, the discourse is global, with a notable density of scholarly contributions originating from Taiwan and Thailand. Most of these studies appear in high-impact journals indexed in Q1 or Q2 rankings, yet a significant portion of the research proceeds without external financial support.

The current body of literature demonstrates a clear thematic imbalance, as over half of the studies prioritize vocabulary acquisition and general oral skills. Conversely, writing proficiency remains the most neglected area of study, representing a critical research gap that requires immediate attention. Furthermore, while the efficacy of digital game-based learning is well-documented regarding student motivation and foundational language skills, there is a distinct lack of focus on early childhood education and formal teacher in-service training. Many studies also fail to specify the precise educational level of their participants, complicating the ability to draw universal pedagogical conclusions.

To advance the field, future research must shift toward under-explored educational stages and prioritize the development of games that target complex writing and interaction skills. Academic and governmental institutions are encouraged to provide the necessary funding and resources to bridge these gaps. Future systematic inquiries should also expand their scope beyond the current database constraints to include a more diverse array of document types, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of how serious games can be effectively integrated into varied language learning curricula.