Media Didaktika
Vol. 11 No. 2 (2025): April - November 2025

The Exploring the Use of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy as a Visual Novel Game to Enhance EFL Learners’ Vocabulary and Motivation

Fikra Nur Firman (Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta)
Lidiyatul Izzah (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study explores the integration of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy, a visual novel game, into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning to enhance students’ vocabulary acquisition and motivation. Conducted with 39 ninth-grade students at SMPN 19 South Tangerang, this research employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected through pre-test and post-test vocabulary assessments and analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test. Qualitative data were obtained through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to investigate learners’ perceptions and experiences. The findings revealed a statistically significant improvement in vocabulary mastery after the intervention, with mean scores increasing from 43.97 to 86.44 (p < 0.05). Qualitative results supported this improvement, indicating that students found vocabulary learning through the game enjoyable, contextual, and memorable. They also expressed higher motivation, self-confidence, and positive attitudes toward learning English. These findings align with Krashen’s Input Hypothesis, Constructivist Learning Theory, and Gardner’s Instrumental Motivation Theory, suggesting that narrative-driven digital games can effectively enhance both vocabulary acquisition and learner motivation. The study concludes that visual novel games, when integrated purposefully into classroom practice, provide a meaningful and engaging alternative to traditional vocabulary instruction.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

didaktika

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Mathematics Other

Description

The journal is published by the Postgraduate Program of Universitas Islam Darul Ulum Lamongan as a medium of information and dissemination of research results, classroom action research, theoretical developments, scientific papers on education and learning, and best practice from any field of ...