Using a bio-metric feedback device to enhance player experience in horror games

Using a bio-metric feedback device to enhance player experience in horror games

Ted Hedlund, Olof Norrlind

Abstract

"This paper is aimed at investigating whether a biofeedback device can positively increase a player’s experience of thrill and suspension in a horror game. To facilitate this, two versions of the same horror game were created with a connection to a heart rate monitor. The difference between the two versions of the game was that the core elements were controlled by the heart rate which attempted to keep the player in a constant suspense state based on their heart rate. This was done to enhance the player’s experience and thrill. These two versions of the game were then play-tested by users. Users had no insight into which version they were testing and afterward, a questionnaire was administered to ascertain the tester’s emotional responses. The collected data was then analyzed and a pattern could be observed where testers preferred the version of the game that was controlled by the heart rate. This, backed by previous studies showed that using a biofeedback device to implement only the heart rate into a game had a marked positive effect on player experience. Still, additional research is needed with a larger control group to get more accurate results."

Reference

Hedlund, T., & Norrlind, O. (2023). Using a bio-metric feedback device to enhance player experience in horror games. https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2%3A1807836&dswid=3707

Keywords

Biofeedback, Heart rate, Horror game