The AMR Knowledge Space Game: participatory modeling to address the complexity of antimicrobial resistance

This study introduces and tests the AMR Knowledge Space Game, a serious game designed to improve collaboration and understanding around antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a growing global health threat. The game brings together people from different backgrounds—experts and non-experts alike—to share knowledge, build common understanding, and map the complex challenges linked to AMR. Using tools such as fuzzy cognitive mapping, players create and refine shared mental models that help visualize how different factors interact. Pilot sessions in several countries showed that the game can reveal new insights, connect fragmented expertise, and support scenario analysis. Overall, the study demonstrates that serious games are a powerful and still underused method to engage stakeholders, model complex systems, and strengthen global preparedness against AMR.