Playing computer games has a significant educational element. In particular, this occurs in understanding the rules of a game, puzzling through the ever-increasing difficulties posed as the game progresses, and developing expertise in operating the controls quickly and accurately. Players typically take on these challenges enthusiastically and are prepared to devote substantial time to improving their knowledge and skills. This paper is based on a belief that e-learning should be enjoyed in the same way and can be enhanced by incorporating games techniques in e-learning system design and delivery. The paper identifies some of the general problems with current e-learning systems and consider show the main game patterns that promote engagement might help to alleviate such problems. The main research challenge here is to develop techniques that encourage learning and can be implemented at reasonable cost.