The ever increasing numbers of EFL learners adds greater urgency to the need to prioritize
the most effective means by which language proficiency can be enhanced; developing
language skills through games being one such method. This study examines the overall effects
of using games on the improvement of young children‟s English proficiency in relation to the
following criteria: motivation; vocabulary acquisition; and anxiety due to peer pressure. The
overarching aim of the research is to investigate the relationship between the usage of games
and students‟ English proficiency. In this study, the subjects numbered 50 grade-six EFL
students from one elementary school. By applying quantitative and qualitative research
methods, the major findings demonstrate that students evidenced significant improvements in
their learning motivation and vocabulary acquisition, and that their anxiety levels due to peer
pressure were reduced when learning included games. Other findings reveal that there is a
significant relationship/difference in the utilization of games and students‟ English
performance, most notably with regards to proficiency levels. The various implications for
pedagogical application of gaming components in regards to enhancing young learners‟
English performance and attitudes are also presented.