Go with the flow or seize control? Interaction principles that make games enjoyable

Abstract

A series of design principles relevant to creating graphics for games interfaces were interpreted from the work of leading interaction experts. Students studying for an MSc in Computer Games Graphics were asked to explore how the principles might improve enjoyment of a game. The graduates of the course consider visual themes and their layout; they were asked to develop graphical designs to test ideas and evaluate them within the group. The purpose of the activity was to consider how emotional responses might be improved, during game play, beyond levels of satisfaction usually associated with usability.