Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Design for Creative Activity: A Framework for Analyzing
the Creative Potential of Computer Games
Wilawan Inchamnan
1,2
, Peta Wyeth
2
, and Daniel Johnson
2
1
Information Technology Faculty, Dhurakij Pundit University, Thailand
2
Faculty of Science and Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Australia
wilawan.inn@dpu.ac.th, {peta.wyeth,dm.johnson}@qut.edu.au
Abstract.
This paper describes a design framework intended to conceptually
map the influence that game design has on the creative activity people engage
in during gameplay. The framework builds on behavioral and verbal analysis of
people playing puzzle games. The analysis was designed to better understand
the extent to which gameplay activities within different games facilitate creative
problem solving. We have used an expert review process to evaluate these
games in terms of their game design elements and have taken a cognitive action
approach to this process to investigate how particular elements produce the
potential for creative activity. This paper proposes guidelines that build upon
our understanding of the relationship between the creative processes that
players undertake during a game and the components of the game that allow
these processes to occur. These guidelines may be used in the game design
process to better facilitate creative gameplay activity.
Keywords:
Videogames, Creative gameplay, Behavioral analysis, Expert
review.
1
Introduction
The research described in this paper examines the impact that the design of a game
has on the potential for that game to engage players in creative activity. Creative
thinking is an important aspect of problem solving and a valuable skill to acquire.
While existing research demonstrates the effectiveness of some games in facilitating
creativity [4], this study focuses on the impact that specific game elements (e.g.,
goals, actions) have on the creative problem solving processes that occur during
gameplay. Assessing the creative potential of an experience requires a focus on how
an individual responds to particular activities [9]. This research examines the
activities provided within games though specific game elements and analyses how
these activities may facilitate creative engagement. It identifies the key specific
components of computer games that support creative activity. The outcome of the
research is a set of guidelines that can aid game designers in the creation of games to
facilitate people's creative thinking skills.
