Who is In a Lifetime designed for?

In a Lifetime can be purchased for individuals, families, mental health professionals, coaches, schools, businesses, and community organizations. It is designed for adolescents (recommended ages 12 and up) and adults of all ages. It can be played individually, as a family, in small groups, or in large group settings.

Is it easy to play?

Yes! In a Lifetime is computerized and this allows the players to focus on the content of the game. There is a manual that describes step by step instructions as well as the background of the game's design. After reviewing the manual, players are ready to jump right in and begin play.

Is the game replayable?

Yes!  The game is best utilized when players not only play, but replay the game to consider other possible characters, make different decisions, and reflect on new results. There are an infinite number of characters that can be computer generated or custom built by the player. Each character's life is unique, and even if a player chooses to custom build a similar character, a new character's life will be created, with new circumstances, new decisions to make, and new outcomes.

Does the game encourage critical thinking?

Yes! Not only does In a Lifetime encourage critical thinking, it demands it. Each character's life and situation is unique.  Players engage in considering many life factors (friends, family, school, career, health, etc.) and make individual decisions throughout each phase of their life.

What type of research is behind the development of In a Lifetime?

In 1978, Dr. Robert Williams developed Multiple Identification Theory, commonly recognized as the leading theory of how games can be designed to change attitudes and behaviors. Multiple Identification Theory explains that there are three major factors that must be present for players to learn from the experience of a simulation game and for that learning to impact attitudes and behaviors. 1) Cognitive Identification: Intellectually, individuals need to believe that the game is an accurate model of real life. The effects of their choices should be an authentic representation of reality. 2) Behavioral Identification: Individuals must have the freedom to construct unique sets of choices. Being given wide-open options allows individuals to build their own strategies for the game and see how these strategies will translate to real life. 3) Affective Identification: Individuals need to care about the game and the results.  They must be personally invested in the outcome. 

Series of studies over the past 40 years have supported Multiple Identification Theory and its findings.  Multiple Identification Theory has been utilized across a broad range of specialties spanning from international relations to patient adherence to medical therapies. 

Can you save your results?

Yes!  A detailed account of your experiences and decisions can easily be saved to be reviewed at a later time. An additional feature is that by saving the game each turn, upon the game's completion, players can choose to return to an earlier phase in their character's life, make different decisions and see the effects of their alternative choices. 

How long does it take to play the game?

Individuals can spend up to ninety minutes or as little as thirty minutes depending on their personal style of play. The game can also be saved so that a player can complete the game at his or her convenience.

How do I get the greatest benefits from In a Lifetime?

Playing as an individual: If you design a character resembling yourself, In a Lifetime can be a crystal ball allowing you to experience the results of different choices and paths for your life. But whether you play as yourself or as an endless variety of characters, the game is a powerful tool for personal growth, the development of empathy, self-discovery, and empowerment.  In a Lifetime will let you explore the profound impact of your choices and the infinite possibilities of your life story.

Playing In a Lifetime in a group: The game is ideal for group play. Working together as a team players can share and discuss ideas, offering different perspectives that enhance the experience for all. The ideal group size is 2-3 people. With this number all players tend to contribute and be strongly involved. Such involvement makes the learning personally meaningful and increases the odds that participants will apply game learning to their real lives. In larger groups, there is a tendency for many to sit quietly while a few dominant players make the decisions.

Repeated use of the game: Players can learn a lot from playing In a Lifetime. And the more they play it, the more they will learn. The lessons of any one game play can be helpful. But, by far the greatest learning occurs when players play the game a number of times. By doing so, they have the opportunity to try out different life strategies, seeing for themselves what works and what does not. This creates a sense of believability in the game’s lessons that carries over to real life. It is encouraging when people learn how to live better lives in the game. But, what is really important is when they make decisions that make their own lives better.

Ideally, each player should have his or her own copy of the game so that they can play In a Lifetime whenever they wish and as many times as they wish.

Are there two versions of In a Lifetime?

Yes, there are two versions of the game: In a Lifetime and In a Lifetime for Schools. In a Lifetime is our standard version of the game that covers all aspects of life. In a Lifetime for Schools is exactly the same game as In a Lifetime except it omits reference to topics that may not be suitable for all audiences.

How much does the game cost and are there packages for organizations?

In a Lifetime can be purchased for $50 for an individual copy of the game. Site licenses for the game are also available. Additionally, training needs can be discussed and individualized training options can be tailored to fit organizational needs. Please indicate on our Contact Us form if you would like to discuss more detailed information regarding optional training or site licenses.

How do I purchase the game?

To purchase the game, please press the Buy now button.