Masada, the Desert Fortress. Discovering the Archaeological Site by Gaming

In the last decades the interest in the use of serious games as learning tools has grown and the awareness of how the game is effective in the transfer of information from the object to the user is consolidated. The paper discusses the possibilities that this type of tool offers in terms of learning and dissemination of Cultural Heritage. Through the consolidated methodologies of survey and representation, the key points are highlighted for the realization of an interactive 3D model that can be used through ‘playable’ modalities. The interaction between the information contents and the visualization tools required a reflection on the quality of the graphic system and the virtual design. Everything must be designed to be an expression of an effective graphic language, starting from the narrative plot up to the rules of the game and the scenario. Special attention is given to the creation of the graphic interface, the buttons, the layout, and the color palette. A possible game platform designed about the Masada fortress in Israel is still developing and, as well as representing an instrument for sharing Cultural Heritage, supports the conservation of artifacts; at the same time it allows to know and protect the intangible assets that make up the identity of the places represented.