Motivating Quit Attempts Through Gamification: A Systematic Review of Digital Game-Based Interventions for Smoking...

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Tobacco use is a major global health concern, driving preventable diseases and deaths.
• Traditional smoking cessation methods often have limited success, prompting exploration of novel approaches.
• Mobile technology and gamification offer new avenues for supporting individuals attempting to quit smoking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the effectiveness of gamification-based digital interventions for smoking cessation.
• To assess impacts on user engagement, abstinence rates, motivation, and identify implementation challenges.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
• Studies published between January 2015 and July 2025 were included, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Eight studies met eligibility criteria, with data extracted and quality assessed using NIH tools.

Main Results:

• Gamified elements like leaderboards and challenges enhanced user engagement and motivation.
• While some apps showed promise, overall quit rates did not consistently improve with gamification.
• Benefits were predominantly observed in the short term, with limited evidence for long-term cessation.

Conclusions:

• Gamification can enhance the appeal and motivational aspects of digital smoking cessation tools.
• Current evidence suggests short-term engagement benefits but lacks robust support for sustained, long-term smoking abstinence.
• Further research is required to optimize gamified interventions for lasting cessation outcomes.