Around the world in 8 workshops: investigating anticipated player experiences of children

Abstract

Player experience describes the qualities of player-game interaction and is typically evaluated during or after the game has been developed. Different approaches exist to improve and optimize player experience during the design process (e.g., design guidelines). However, the anticipated or expected player experience of users can also guide game developers and researcher in order to develop better games. A series of game ideation workshops with children aged 8 to 15 years was conducted in eight different locations around the world. The workshops produced video snippets, in which children explain their thoughts on possible game play scenarios of a game idea (i.e., anticipations and expectations). An initial content analysis of the videos highlights the game elements and playful experiences that contribute to the anticipated player experience of the children that should guide game developers and researchers.