Agential flow: practical applications of flow theory in modern board game design

Date
2015
Authors
Whittaker-Powley, Ezra
Supervisor
Kenobi, Ben
van Melle, Gerbrand
Item type
Thesis
Degree name
Master of Creative Technologies
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Publisher
Auckland University of Technology
Abstract

This practice-based thesis examines the relationship between modern board games and flow theory in order to answer the following question:

How might the process of designing tabletop games incorporate flow theory to result in a more engaging experience for the end user?

Using processes of practical exploration, reflection and contextual research, a method of game design will be established that emphasises social interaction as a catalyst for player engagement. Key concepts will be explored through the design of prototype games and demonstrated via the development of a final artefact: a prototype board game titled It’s Just Business. Findings will be compiled in order to formulate a qualitative framework for board game design, i.e., the agential play framework, which will outline key theoretical considerations of the design of agential engagement through board games.

Description
Keywords
Boardgame , Flow , Tabletop , Game
Source
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