Documentation
Everything you need to get started with The Purposeful Economist and our learning platform.
Introduction
The Purposeful Economist is an interactive educational game that teaches macroeconomic concepts through immersive city-building simulation. Players learn about policy decisions, resource management, and economic indicators while building and managing a virtual economy.
New to economics? Don't worry! The game introduces concepts gradually and provides explanations along the way. No prior knowledge is required.
Key Features
- Interactive Learning: Learn by doing, not just reading
- Real Economic Models: Simulations based on actual economic principles
- Progress Tracking: Monitor your learning journey with achievements
- Knowledge Base: In-depth articles explaining each concept
- Quizzes: Test your understanding after each lesson
Quick Start Guide
Follow these steps to begin your economics learning journey:
Step 1: Access the Game
You can play directly in your browser - no download required:
Step 2: Learn the Controls
- Pan View: Drag with one finger / mouse
- Rotate Camera: Horizontal swipe
- Zoom: Pinch gesture / scroll wheel
- Place Building: Tap/click on empty grid space
Step 3: Complete Your First Objective
Each level has specific objectives. Start by building 3 buildings to complete the first level and learn the basics.
Tip: Read the knowledge base articles when prompted - they contain valuable information that will help you make better decisions in the game.
System Requirements
Web Version
- Browser: Chrome 90+, Firefox 88+, Safari 14+, Edge 90+
- Internet: Stable connection (1 Mbps+)
- RAM: 4GB minimum
- Screen: 1280x720 minimum resolution
Mobile App (iOS)
- Device: iPhone 8 or newer, iPad (6th gen) or newer
- iOS: Version 14.0 or later
- Storage: 200MB free space
Game Overview
The Purposeful Economist combines city-building mechanics with economics education. As you play, you'll encounter real economic concepts and learn how different decisions affect your virtual economy.
The Four Pillars
The game is organized around four key areas of focus:
- Policy Lab: Learn about government policy and regulation
- Entrepreneur's Forge: Explore business creation and innovation
- Career Compass: Understand workforce development and employment
- Community Multiplier: Discover social capital and community building
Building Tiers
Buildings come in three tiers, each representing different levels of development:
- Tier 1: Basic structures - affordable, fundamental buildings
- Tier 2: Developed structures - more advanced, higher returns
- Tier 3: Advanced structures - premium buildings with maximum benefits
Classroom Integration
The Purposeful Economist is designed for educational use. Here's how to integrate it into your curriculum:
Lesson Plans
Each chapter of the game aligns with standard economics curriculum. We provide:
- Pre-game discussion questions
- Learning objectives for each level
- Post-game reflection activities
- Assessment rubrics
Student Progress Tracking
Educators with institutional licenses can:
- View individual student progress
- Track quiz scores and completion rates
- Export data for gradebook integration
- Assign specific chapters or levels
Request Educational Access: Contact education@onticstudios.com for institutional pricing and educator resources.
API Overview
Our API allows developers to integrate with the Ontic Studios platform. Documentation for developers building integrations with our learning platform.
Coming Soon: The API is currently in development. Contact us to be notified when it becomes available.
Planned Features
- Student progress and achievement data
- LMS integration (Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle)
- Custom assessment creation
- Analytics and reporting