EDGE

Discussion 9: Player Immersion and Motivation

Review Sarah Lynne Bowman’s “Immersion and Shared Imagination in Role-Playing Games.” Note that while we have covered similar content in previous classes, this chapter presents more comprehensive information on various psychological states of immersion.

Then, read two (2) articles from the Motivation section of the Recommended Materials. 

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Then, answer the following questions:

1. Out of each of the types of immersion described in Bowman’s article, which one(s) do you think you are designing for in your game? Give specific examples.
2. In 3-4 sentences each, describe each article on Motivation that you read. Note that some content may be similar between articles; if so, find a new angle to discuss each article.
3. Choose one (1) motivation from either article that you find most relatable. Provide an example of a game you have enjoyed in which you played with this specific creative agenda/motivation, whether consciously or unconsciously. What was pleasurable about that experience? Be specific.
4. Choose one (1) motivation from either article that you find least relatable. Provide an example of a game you did not enjoy in which you played with this specific creative agenda/motivation, whether consciously or unconsciously. What was unpleasant about that experience? Be specific.
5. When scaling your game, how might you approach handling players who have different preferences in terms of creative agendas/motivations? Be specific.

Finally, respond to at least two (2) of your peers in Ask a Question, Answer a Question format.