The integration of innovative teaching methodologies in higher education is crucial for fostering student engagement and improving learning outcomes. While traditional lecture-based approaches effectively deliver theoretical knowledge, they often struggle to maintain student motivation and provide practical experience in addressing complex environmental engineering challenges. This study explores the impact of video game-based learning as an educational strategy in Environmental Engineering at the University of La Rioja, evaluating its effectiveness in enhancing student motivation, knowledge retention, and problem-solving skills. During the 2024-2025 academic year, a controlled study was conducted involving 130 first-year students enrolled in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Automation and Industrial Electronics Engineering programs. The students were divided into two groups: one followed conventional lecture-based teaching methods, while the other engaged in a gamified learning experience using educational video games designed to simulate real-world environmental engineering scenarios. These custom-developed video games focused on key topics, including wastewater treatment processes and solid and hazardous waste management, aligning with the core curriculum of the Environmental Engineering course. To evaluate the effectiveness of game-based learning compared to traditional instruction, a mixed-method research approach was employed. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires consisting of multiple-choice and conceptual questions assessed students’ knowledge acquisition and skill development. Additionally, surveys and interviews were conducted to gather qualitative insights into students' motivation, engagement, and overall perceptions of the two teaching methodologies. The findings revealed that students in the gamified learning environment exhibited greater enthusiasm for the subject matter and a deeper understanding of engineering principles. This study bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in Environmental Engineering education, providing students with a dynamic and engaging learning experience. The findings underscore the potential of gamification as a transformative tool in engineering education, paving the way for its broader application across disciplines to create a more interactive and effective educational landscape.

Keywords: Gamification, Video Game-Based Learning, Environmental Engineering, Higher Education, Interactive Learning.