Effects of industrial design properties of game controllers on player experience

Abstract

Researchers frequently state that game controllers, affect the Player Experience (PX). We also conducted this study to examine the effects of controllers on PX dimensions, including industrial design features that are missing in the field. In our study with 34 participants, we implemented four directionally mapped controllers using a PC game. We also used controller-specific experience questions in our study, using Player Experience Inventory (PXI) and Core Elements of the Gaming Experience (CEGE) models. In addition, we conducted a comparative analysis of all data using AttrakDiff2 to evaluate the designs of the products. Implications of the results regarding controllers' design features are discussed regarding PX. The participants' experience level and familiarity with the device were effective in evaluating their experience. A correlation was observed between the controller's enjoyment and the game's enjoyment. There is also a relationship between enjoyment and the hedonic qualities of the controllers. The features of the controllers, such as ease of use and challenge are related to PX dimensions.