Open AccessA Study of Interaction Patterns and Awareness Design Elements in a Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Author(s) -
Tiffany Y. Tang,
Cheung Yiu Man,
Chu Pok Hang,
Lam Shiu Cheuk,
Chan Wai Kwong,
Yiu Chung,
Ho Ka Fai,
Sit Kam
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
international journal of computer games technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.248
H-Index - 19
eISSN - 1687-7055
pISSN - 1687-7047
DOI - 10.1155/2008/619108
Subject(s) - computer science , key (lock) , usability , human–computer interaction , social relation , multimedia , psychology , social psychology , computer security
Massively multiplayer online games (MMOGs) have been known to create rich and versatile social worlds for thousands of millions of players to participate. As such, various game elements and advance technologies such as artificial intelligence have been applied to encourage and facilitate social interactions in these online communities, the key to the success of MMOGs. However, there is a lack of studies addressing the usability of these elements in games. In this paper, we look into interaction patterns and awareness design elements that support the awareness in LastWorld and FairyLand. Experimental results obtained through both in-game experiences and player interviews reveal that not all awareness tools (e.g., an in-game map) have been fully exploited by players. In addition, those players who are aware of these tools are not satisfied with them. Our findings suggest that awareness-oriented tools/channels should be easy to interpret and rich in conveying “knowledge” so as to reduce players-cognitive overload. These findings of this research recommend considerations of early stage MMOG design
Accelerating Research
Robert Robinson Avenue,
Oxford Science Park, Oxford
OX4 4GP, United Kingdom
Address
John Eccles HouseRobert Robinson Avenue,
Oxford Science Park, Oxford
OX4 4GP, United Kingdom