Virtual reality technology and game enjoyment: The contributions of natural mapping and need satisfaction

Virtual reality technology and game enjoyment: The contributions of natural mapping and need satisfaction

Virtual reality technology and game enjoyment: The contributions of natural mapping and need satisfaction

By FelixReer, Lars-Ole Wehden, Robin Janzik, Wai Yen Tang, and Thorsten Quandt

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.”

Reference

Reer, F., Wehden, L., Janzik, R., Tang, W., &Quandt, T. (2022, July). Virtual Reality Technology and game enjoyment: The contributions of natural mapping and need satisfaction. Retrieved April 20, 2022, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563222000644

Keywords

Virtual reality, game enjoyment, self-determination theory, need satisfaction, natural mapping, laboratory experiment, research