<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze in depth the effect of Game-Based Learning implementation on improving student learning motivation in the Aqidah Akhlaq subject in class VIII A at MTs Hidayatul Mubtadiin, South Lampung. This study used a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design to analyze the effect of the Game-Based Learning (GBL) method on student learning motivation in the Aqidah Akhlaq subject at MTs Hidayatul Mubtadiin, South Lampung. The sample consisted of 22 students in the experimental class and 20 students in the control class, determined through purposive sampling. The independent variable was GBL, while learning motivation was measured through a Likert questionnaire, observation, and documentation. Data were analyzed using normality tests, homogeneity tests, and independent samples t-tests to examine differences in motivation between groups. This study shows that the implementation of the Game-Based Learning (GBL) method has a positive effect on student learning motivation in the Aqidah Akhlaq subject. The experimental group participating in game-based learning had higher average motivation than the control group. The results of the normality and homogeneity of variance tests indicate that the data meets most of the assumptions of the parametric analysis, thus validating the Independent Samples t-test. GBL increases student interest, engagement, and enthusiasm through interactive, collaborative, and reflective learning experiences, in line with constructivist and active learning principles. This method also supports affective motivation by creating a fun learning environment, reducing boredom, and strengthening social and academic interactions, making it a suitable strategy for effective and holistic Islamic religious learning.ABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis secara mendalam pengaruh penerapan Game Based Learning terhadap peningkatan motivasi belajar siswa pada mata pelajaran Akidah Akhlaq kelas VIII A di MTs Hidayatul Mubtadiin Lampung Selatan. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan desain eksperimen semu untuk menganalisis pengaruh metode Game Based Learning (GBL) terhadap motivasi belajar siswa mata pelajaran Akidah Akhlaq di MTs Hidayatul Mubtadiin, Lampung Selatan. Sampel terdiri dari 22 siswa kelas eksperimen dan 20 siswa kelas kontrol, ditentukan melalui purposive sampling. Variabel bebas adalah GBL, sedangkan motivasi belajar sebagai variabel terikat diukur melalui angket Likert, observasi, dan dokumentasi. Data dianalisis menggunakan uji normalitas, homogenitas, dan independent samples t-test untuk menguji perbedaan motivasi antar kelompok. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa penerapan metode Game Based Learning (GBL) berpengaruh positif terhadap motivasi belajar siswa pada mata pelajaran Akidah Akhlaq. Kelompok eksperimen yang mengikuti pembelajaran berbasis permainan memiliki rata-rata motivasi lebih tinggi dibandingkan kelompok kontrol. Hasil uji normalitas dan homogenitas varians menunjukkan data memenuhi sebagian besar asumsi analisis parametrik, sehingga uji Independent Samples t-test dapat dilakukan secara valid. GBL meningkatkan ketertarikan, keterlibatan, dan antusiasme siswa melalui pengalaman belajar interaktif, kolaboratif, dan reflektif, sejalan dengan prinsip constructivist dan active learning. Metode ini juga mendukung motivasi afektif dengan menciptakan lingkungan belajar menyenangkan, mengurangi kejenuhan, serta memperkuat interaksi sosial dan akademik, sehingga layak dijadikan strategi pembelajaran agama Islam yang efektif dan holistik.]]>
