International Journal of Serious Games I Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2023 83 Article Gamification Equilibrium: The Fulcrum for Balanced Intrinsic Motivation and Extrinsic Rewards in Electronic Learning Systems John Dah 1 , Norhayati Hussin 1* , Muhamad Khairulnizam Zaini 1 , Linda Isaac Helda 2 , Divine Senanu Ametefe 3 , Abdulmalik Adozuka Aliu 4 , Wang Suqi 4,5 , and Aziz Caliskan 6 1 College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 40150 Puncak Perdana, Selangor, Malaysia; 2 School of Midwifery, College of Nursing and Midwifery, Taraba State University, 660271 Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria; 3 College of Engineering, School of Electrical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; 4 College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; 5 Faculty of Arch. and Civil Eng., Huaiyin Institute of Technology, JiangSu, China; 6 Faculty of Hotel and Tourism Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM),40450, Shah Alam, Malaysia {2020864844, 2019813378, 2022198707, 2020432956} @isiswa.uitm.edu.my; {yatihussin, nizam0374} @uitm.edu.my; {Lindahelda96} @gmail.com; {22020001} @hyit.edu.cn Corresponding Author: Norhayati Hussin (yatihussin@uitm.edu.my) Keywords: Gamification Intrinsic motivation Extrinsic motivation Game elements Game mechanics Received: May 2023 Accepted: August 2023 Published: September 2023 DOI: 10.17083/ijsg.v10i3.633 Abstract In this study, we developed a concept for balancing extrinsic rewards and intrinsic motivation in gamified learning systems by applying the principles of equilibrium found in first-class levers. Despite the growing interest in gamification as a tool to enhance motivation and engagement, empirical findings are inconsistent, and there is no unified agreement among researchers on its effective implementation. Gamification employs game design elements and principles to enhance user experience in various contexts, including the field of education and learning. However, its application in Information Systems (IS) and beyond has revealed inconsistencies and challenges that this study aims to explore. Our review identifies an overreliance on narrow models and shallow design (focusing solely on badges, points, and leaderboards, known as "BPL gamification") as contributing factors to the failure of some gamified systems. These approaches can lead to an imbalance between extrinsic and intrinsic motivation, resulting in the "Overjustification effect," a phenomenon that undermines the effectiveness of gamification. By providing a more nuanced understanding of how to select and apply game elements, this study aims to mitigate these challenges and promote a more successful implementation of gamification, avoiding common pitfalls and clichés in design. International Journal of Serious Games ISSN: 2384-8766 https://journal.seriousgamessociety.org/