Gamification has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance engagement and learning outcomes in education. However, its adoption in developing countries faces persistent challenges. This study systematically reviews 43 research articles to identify key barriers to gamification adoption and provides new insights into their underlying causes. The findings highlight specific cultural misconceptions, such as the perception of gamification as mere entertainment rather than an educational tool, alongside language barriers and resistance to non-traditional teaching methods. Technological barriers, including limited access to digital devices, high costs, and low digital literacy, further hinder adoption. Institutional challenges, such as rigid curricula, insufficient teacher training, and a lack of supportive policies, exacerbate these issues. Unlike previous studies, this research not only categorizes these barriers but also provides a framework for addressing them. Specific policy recommendations include integrating gamification into national education strategies, subsidizing digital infrastructure, and designing teacher training programs focused on gamified pedagogy. By advocating for localized and context-sensitive gamification strategies, this study offers practical insights for educators, policymakers, and technology developers. © The Author(s) 2025.
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