Purpose - Proposes to look at how many designers and researchers have become interested in how videogames can serve as forms of cultural expression beyond entertainment alone. Design/methodology/approach - The study is based on views from the videogame industry and the educational system. Findings - This article suggests that both the videogame industry and the compulsory educational system are engaged in commensurate crises. The videogame industry is creatively rich but risk-averse, motivated primarily by wealth and reinforced by its own success. The education establishment is bureaucratic and self-effacing, endorsing the production of complacency over challenge. With videogames and education caught in similar ruts, to support change in one means endorsing a revolution in the other. Originality/value - Compares the videogame industry with the educational establishment and suggests ways in which the videogame industry can assist education.