Semantic Kansei Engineering Approach for Game Controllers and Design Improvement

Abstract

The entertainment industry undergoes constant changes, and video games, along with the ways people enjoy them, evolve dynamically. In this context, there arises a need to innovate in areas such as user–game interaction and the design of conventional controllers to keep up with these transformations. This study has found that the design requirements of the external geometry of video game controllers significantly impact users’ purchasing decisions, who often rely on their sensations and emotions. The primary aim of this research has been to demonstrate that it is possible to develop a specific methodology to establish design guidelines that evaluate geometry and ergonomic aspects, considering users’ emotional needs. To achieve this goal, the Kansei methodology has been employed, an engineering discipline that focuses on product design based on emotional interaction and user sensations when using them. Through advanced statistical techniques such as principal component analysis and linear regression, the set of observations has been reduced and a robust predictive model has been developed. Following this methodological approach, surveys and field studies have been conducted, thus differentiating the project from a conventional engineering approach in various stages. Special attention has been paid to the tactile part of the controller, especially its casing. After thorough analysis, the redesigned casing, incorporating improvements derived from statistical analyses, has been compared to existing market models. The results obtained show a significant improvement compared to existing market models, particularly highlighting enhancements in functional characteristics and ergonomic design, enabling comfortable use for individuals with different hand sizes and preventing the grip surface from being slippery. In summary, this work supports the effectiveness of the Kansei methodology as an approach to adapting product design to users’ perceptions and emotional needs.