Agential Flow: Practical Applications of Flow Theory in Modern Board Game Design
Date
Authors
Whittaker-Powley, Ezra
Supervisor
Kenobi, Ben
van Melle, Gerbrand
Item type
Thesis
Degree name
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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