DeliverC: Teaching Pointers through GenAI-Powered Game-Based Learning

Game-based learning is common in programming education, but few tools provide adaptive, real-time support for complex topics like C pointers. We present DeliverC, a GenAI-powered game that uses GPT-4-mini to generate personalized hints and pointer challenges dynamically. In a pilot study with 25 undergraduates, gameplay data and a 15-item survey assessed motivation, self-efficacy, metacognition, and feedback quality. Students reported greater confidence and reflection, with error rates decreasing across scaffolded levels. However, participation declined with task difficulty, and some feedback was unclear. Overall, DeliverC enhanced engagement and understanding in systems programming, demonstrating the promise of GenAI-driven personalization in challenging computing topics.