Exploring the game mechanics in a cooperative learning game : A study in how a cooperative learning-based game system affects the shared player agency

Sammanfattning

This analysis project is based on an original made board game called ‘Mission from B.O.G’, it is a cooperative learning game based on the Gotland wetlands. The research aim is how the game design of a cooperative learning game system affects the shared player agency. Two separate playtests were done, each with three players, then a post-playing group interview was conducted. This paper is a synthesis of three individual thesis papers done on individual themes within the research aim of this KAPPA, then compiled into an overarching results and discussions on the findings. This is done in order to expand on the field of games as a system and to give insight to game designers of tools to utilize for creating the intended experience. The key findings were that the use of operational and written out implicit rules prompted cooperation amongst the players for a beneficial collaboration towards their common end goal. More so, this meant that players had an active engagement with the ecological theme and information on the cards which form a part of the game's core loop. This showed indications of cognitive load which in turn affected the knowledge retention in players. All to coalesce that the design of the cooperative learning game system does impact the shared player agency.