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4. Illustrative Examples of Applying Game Thinking

The power of game-based thinking becomes most visible in real-world examples, where value creation, player roles, and game-space dynamics are tangible. These cases illustrate how the game model enables radical changes that would be impossible under old market logic.

1. Participation in an AI-Based Game Space

  • Situation: AI enables large-scale global participation, previously impossible in traditional market frameworks.

  • Radical Change: Competitors collaborate on tasks that were formerly unthinkable. For example, influencing regulators might now be part of value creation.

  • Dynamics: Players shift from defensive strategies to proactive, aggressive, or catalytic roles.

  • Key Insight: Competitive advantage comes from mastering the game-space dynamics, not just reacting to market changes.

2. Moving to a New S-Curve (Example: Airbnb)

  • Situation: The original market seems stable but is only a transitional phase in the game space.

  • Radical Change: Customers and providers create new roles, combine resources (e.g., cars, services), and explore new ways of creating value.

  • Dynamics: The game space transitions to the next growth curve, while the original "market" is only a temporary reflection.

  • Key Insight: True advantage comes from understanding and managing the shift to the new S-curve.

3. Fast-Changing Traditional Industries (Example: Electric Vehicles)

  • Situation: Automotive and related industries change faster than traditional markets can adapt.

  • Radical Change: Value creation happens in ecosystems and team interactions, not just through products.

  • Dynamics: Focus can quickly shift — e.g., from charging infrastructure to charging access. Companies can test new production chains, partnerships, and service models to ensure a leap to the next S-curve if the market evolves slowly.

  • Key Insight: Mastering the game space and understanding dynamics is crucial; radical market changes alone don't guarantee lasting advantage.

Takeaways for Early Movers

  • Radical changes alone do not ensure lasting advantage; mastering the game space is what counts.

  • AI and digital platforms allow massive participation and the use of new roles previously impossible.

  • Game thinking helps distinguish between temporary market shifts and comprehensive value creation, essential for strategic decisions.

Encouraging Conclusion

  • Game-based thinking is not just for pioneers.

  • It gives traditional players tools to escape old constraints, experiment with new roles, and participate in dynamic value creation.

  • The game model encourages organizations to innovate proactively, learn quickly, and build the next S-curve before markets stabilize — doing what was once impossible.