Why use games?

'Language learning is hard work ... Effort is required at every moment and must be maintained over a long period of time. Games help and encourage many learners to sustain their interest and work.'

'Games also help the teacher to create contexts in which the language is useful and meaningful. The learners want to take part and in order to do so must understand what others are saying or have written, and they must speak or write in order to express their own point of view or give information.'

' Games are highly motivating since they are amusing and at the same time challenging. Furthermore, they employ meaningful and useful language in real contexts. They also encourage and increase cooperation.'

'There are many advantages of using games in the classroom: 

1. Games are a welcome break from the usual routine of the language class. 
2. They are motivating and challenging.
3. Learning a language requires a great deal of effort. Games help students to make and sustain the effort of learning.
4. Games provide language practice in the various skills- speaking, writing, listening and reading. 
5. They encourage students to interact and communicate.
6. They create a meaningful context for language use.' 

If you want more information check the following link:

http://www.teflgames.com/games.html

ESL games:

http://www.genkienglish.net/games.htm