Abstract
Based on self-determination theory, the current laboratory experiment investigates how the use of virtual reality (VR) technology shapes the gaming experience. We hypothesize that playing the VR version offers a more naturally mapped playing experience than playing the non-VR version of the same game. Further, we assume that natural mapping is positively related to autonomy and competence need satisfaction, which in turn will predict higher levels of game enjoyment. One hundred thirty-three participants either played the non-VR or the VR version of the game The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. We found that playing the VR version induced higher levels of game enjoyment than playing the non-VR version. Path analysis affirmed our assumption that VR technology can increase game enjoyment via natural mapping and the resulting satisfaction of competence and autonomy needs. Implications of these findings for games research and game design are discussed.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 107242 |
| Pages (from-to) | 1-9 |
| Number of pages | 9 |
| Journal | Computers in Human Behavior |
| Volume | 132 |
| Early online date | 17 Feb 2022 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Jul 2022 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:The authors would like to thank the three anonymous reviewers for their helpful comments. Further, we would like to thank Patrick Williams, Valentin D?ring and Steve Bernard for their help with setting up and conducting some of the field work.
Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 Elsevier Ltd
Keywords
- Game enjoyment
- Laboratory experiment
- Natural mapping
- Need satisfaction
- Self-determination theory
- Virtual reality