The purpose of interaction in our game idea

We intend to design the interactions, with the function to support the regulation of the player, through consideration of self-care and therapy techniques. The interactions will make use of the immersive technology that we have researched, such as using touch controllers to make changes or adaptions to the visual environment. I have researched into the potential technology that could be used in either space. While I believe that using a controller takes away from the feeling of immersion in a space, it may be necessary for us to create meaningful interactions in the gameplay.

Research that supported this ideation process includes:

Self Help, Self Regulation - Gamified

Therapy; Types and Techniques

Immersion pt2

Sense & Stimulation

Technology

Brainstorming

Together, Emilia and I brainstormed potential interactions that we could consider in our game design. Emilia focused on ideas surrounding self-care and self-regulatory behaviours that could be adapted to form game interactions. I explored these activities on a more conceptual level, noting ideas surrounding existentialism and behavioural modelling for example.

Ideas inspired by therapy techniques

• Behavioural Modelling - Player learns wellness behaviour thorough observation, copying the actions shown through visuals. This could be achieved through storytelling or giving the player direct actions with supported visuals.
• Identification - This would involve identifying problems in an environment through searching and interacting. This allows the player to make links between objects/events and tool for learning that can have real life applications.
• Existentialism - Providing the player with purpose and freedom to choose how they play gives them a sense of agency. This enhances their focus and self-awareness which should inspire self-reflection.
• Gestalt therapy - This therapy involves focusing on the self, the mind and body and how they feel in the environment. This could be achieved by tasking the player to move their body in sync with visuals or they could use free movement to have an impact on the environment. This interaction could be developed with motion control.