När spelet talar : Spelerfarenhets betydelse för förståelse av affordanser, signaler och feedback

Sammanfattning

This study examines the relationship between player experience and their understanding of in-game signifiers, affordances and feedback. The aim is to cover gaps in the research of game design and to aid designers in making games fit for a wider array of players, regardless of their previous gaming experience. The study was conducted using qualitative research methods, which consisted of nine semi-structured interviews and game tests. The game tests and interviews were combined with observations and voice recordings to optimize data generation. Data analysis was done using an inductive method. The data was sorted into codes, which could then be grouped into six themes. The results of the study show that there are noticeable differences in player understanding, action and reaction in relation to in-game signifiers, affordances and feedback that are linked to differing levels of gaming experience. Players with more experience use that experience to understand and interpret a game scenario, while less experienced players are less likely to have that frame of interpretation. More experienced players are also more likely to interpret both positive and negative feedback as a tool for progress. For less experienced players, negative or no feedback might cause uncertainty or frustration. More experienced players are more self assured and intuitive in their gameplay. Furthermore, clear visual signifiers and feedback are important for players of all experience levels. However, more experienced players are more capable of coping without it thanks to their prior knowledge.