3D Game Research Articles

Preserving Southern Thai Traditional Manora Dance Through Mobile Role-Playing Game Technology

Manora or Nora has been added to the heritage list of UNESCO as Thailand's intangible cultural heritage since 2021. This performance has been presented as a regional form of entertainment and traditionally passed down through generations within certain families. Nowadays, young people are able to learn and practice Manora instructed by their masters or their successors. However, there is currently no digital content of Manora that could support awareness and enrichment of cultural safeguarding, so this article proposes the design and development of a mobile 3D game representing Manora, which is Southern Thai dance-drama performing art. The aim of this game is to increase citizens’ engagement with their intangible cultural heritage and preservation by delivering novel digital heritage content specifically designed for a role-playing mobile game called Nara. The Nara game is used to enhance the perception of Manora dance and provide new experience of playing a culture-based game through costume and its material items. The game design process takes Manora's significant identities, including the costume, dance postures, and music along with players’ requirements to create a game player character, non-player characters, storytelling, challenges, and level design. The development of the game is done on Unity game engine, which provides a mobile 3D game platform to integrate all the designed content and generate the interactive Nara game. The experimentation results conclude that utilizing the unique identity of Manora in gameplay successfully enhances the audience's experience and recognition. This result indicates the effective use of creativity and interactive multimedia technology to create attractive content and enjoyment that can encourage intangible cultural heritage preservation in an innovative manner.

Is Immersion in 3D Virtual Games Associated with Mathematical Ability Improvement in Game-Based Learning?

Previous studies have found positive effects of Game-Based Learning for mathematics. While most studies assume that this effect is explained by the presence of flow/immersion during games, this has not yet been established. The aim of the current study is to verify if immersion indeed is associated with mathematical skills improvement when using a Game-Based Learning intervention. This was tested among 59 Greek high school students, using authentic design. After having received a traditional education module, the students were tested and then engaged for four weeks in a desktop-based 3D Virtual Learning Environment where they could play mathematic minigames. They were subsequently re-tested to verify if they showed a significant increase in mathematical skills. The students showed an improvement in their mathematical skills (Cohen’s d = 1.26), with significant results for functions, geometry, and thinking skills and methods. On the individual level, about half of the students showed a 10% increase in one of the domains (numbers & calculations, functions, geometry, thinking skills and methods, and algorithms and number theory). Immersion was found to be reflected by engagement and presence, but neither one of these aspects was associated with mathematical achievement after the intervention. It is concluded that Game-Based Learning is an effective approach to increasing mathematical skills, yet the underlying mechanisms are not yet understood. The authors discuss several alternative mechanisms based on the literature that can be verified in future studies.

Development of Two Dimension (2D) Game Engine with Finite State Machine (FSM) Based Artificial Intelligence (AI) Subsystem

With Al becoming more and more relevant in today’s world, this project aims to develop a 2D game engine with an Al subsystem for state-driven agents, which is rarely implemented by a lot of 2D engines out there. In this study, a 2D game engine was designed with an FSM (Finite State Machine)--based AL subsystem using state-driven game agents. The engine was implemented using the Javascript programming language and the WebGL 2.0 graphics library/API. It is targeted at web-based games/simulations. Components and subsystems include physics, audio, math, rendering, and AI (based on finite-state machines). The FSM-based AI subsystem is a solution aimed at reducing the ambiguity and performance hits associated with creating 2D game AI in the naive approach. The AI subsystem creates an interface for 2D games to be created with a common paradigm, and simulated with a great level of realism. The state machine used in this study is used to represent a variety of behaviours, such as wandering, attacking, and fleeing. The following conclusions were drawn as regards the impact of the AI approach used on rendering performance; the naive approach to implementing game AI is also compared with the FSM approach in terms of rendering (frames per second/ FPS, or frame rate). With the naive approach (vector math) being used to implement AI, there was a drop in the rendering frame rate to 50 FPS. The FSM approach didn’t affect the frame rate, which is usually at 60FPS. With a well-developed FSM (Finite State Machine), game agents can transition between states easily as a response to user input or stimulus from the game environment. The proposed method was tested by creating a prototype game with the 2D game engine. The prototype game was a straightforward side-scrolling platformer featuring a cast of non-player characters (NPCs). This approach to implementing 2D game AI goes a long way toward improving performance and mitigating ambiguity in the code.

High performance GPU graphics API abstraction layer in C# for real-time graphics

Real-Time rendering is the technique which allows us to have graphical applications in our everyday life, whether it is a 3D game or a tool with graphical user interface. Nowadays graphics rendering is handled by the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) in our device. There are many layers of abstraction above the programming of GPUs through libraries and graphics engines, though the most low-level way of accessing a GPU in user-mode applications is using a Graphics API. Due to the need of high performance and low-level capabilities usually these APIs are used from C or C++, but we realized the need to utilize these APIs in higher level languages as well.In our approach we're using the .NET C# language for developing multi-platform real-time graphical applications instead of the C or C++ languages. Using the modern .NET environment, we're able to use Graphics APIs for rendering onto common .NET UI Frameworks while consuming all our previously implemented C# libraries and .NET technologies in the same application. To maintain compatibility with multiple platforms we're developing a library system allowing the use different Graphics APIs from the same C# source-code. The library system contains a Graphics API abstraction layer with multiple Graphics API implementations of this layer in C# and a C# to shader language compiler for cross-API shader development in C#.In this paper, we're proposing our considerations for implementing a library to be able to use the Vulkan and OpenGL APIs through a single C# codebase. We provide solutions for multi-platform rendering and dealing with the low-level challenges of using the two deeply different APIs, while maintaining performance capable to do real-time rendering.

Gamifying Therapy: A New Approach to Modern Therapeutics

The recent research trend advocates the application of new technological advances in therapy and rehabilitation. Applications of modern technologies are good candidates because they have the potential to prevent many diseases and engage young children in therapeutic interventions. Regardless of previous findings, novel approaches and planned strategic efforts can help several people with disabilities achieve a normal lifestyle by using 2D and 3D games in therapeutic intervention. As we know, the design of biofeedback-based therapeutic games is full of challenges, from data collection to standardization and commercialization. Since this field requires periodic development from Time to Time due to rapidly changing technology and societal demands, this article explains the background of the therapeutic benefits associated with play therapies and their effectiveness in children. This article examines alterations in children’s performance by modifying various aspects of gameplay. Throughout the study, both a blinded physiotherapist and a training physiotherapist were involved. Parameters such as biting, spoon-feeding, chewing, drinking, and swallowing were adjusted and observed. The Functional Feeding Assessment (FFA) and the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID-II) scores were then analyzed and compared between groups based on their respective scoring systems. By comparing the training group and control group for the given parameters, we got p-values of Biting 0.027, Spoon Feeding 0.047, Chewing 0.040, Drinking 0.050, Swallowing 0.060, and t- value Biting 0.092, Spoon Feeding 0.463, Chewing 0.856, Drinking 0.118, Swallowing 0.131. Children’s behavior to play on computers and mobile is transformed into valuable applications for preventing, treating, and training children with oral motor and speech disorders. This gaming therapy benefits children with oral motor skills and CP disability.

Integration of Bridge Health Monitoring System With Augmented Reality Application Developed Using 3D Game Engine–Case Study

Integration of Bridge Health Monitoring System With Augmented Reality Application Developed Using 3D Game Engine–Case Study

Development of a 3D Navigation System for Virtual Reality Using a Physically-Based 3D Game Engine with Haptic Feedback and Proximity Queries

Development of a 3D Navigation System for Virtual Reality Using a Physically-Based 3D Game Engine with Haptic Feedback and Proximity Queries

A Study of 3D Game Elements and Narrative Structures from a Semiotic Perspective

A Study of 3D Game Elements and Narrative Structures from a Semiotic Perspective

MAGE RUNNER: THE GAME USING BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY

Today, digital asset ownership records are stored in a decentralized, distributed database on the basis of blockchain technology. It is no longer possible to modify any stored information on a Blockchain, which makes this technology a legitimate disruptor for sectors such as payments, cybersecurity and healthcare. Considering the increasing implementation of blockchain technology in various fields, this paper aims at focusing its application as a basic gaming experience to newbies, who wish to step into the world of blockchain gaming. Firstly, this paper presents the conceptual design and implementation of blockchain gaming in the framework of a 2D game hosted. This game highlights the incorporation of Fungible and Non-fungible tokens (NFT), which represent the rewards collected by the player. The collected reward bonus in the form of NFT is published on the player’s OpenSea account, connected to MetaMask. The Game flow includes the development of a user-friendly, theme-based interface supported by Solidity as a technological support for building smart contracts using ERC20 and ERC1155 token standards. IPFS (Inter planetary-file system) is used for decentralized storage of metadata and token images, and Hardhat and Alchemy for deployment and overall execution. This game demonstrates a basic implementation of blockchain in gaming and unveils its broader scope through its incorporation in even simple children’s games. This game carries pedagogical significance which can be utilized by the professors to demonstrate the practical usage of fundamental elements of blockchain to the students.

DESIGNING A 3D ROGUELIKE GAME WITH PROCEDURAL CONTENT GENERATION USING THE GRAPH GRAMMARS METHOD

Roguelike is a genre of role-playing video game in which the player explores dungeons through procedurally generated levels. If they lose, the player loses progress, and the character starts over again. Procedural Content Generation (PCG) is a computer program that can create game content automatically, randomly, and uniquely, either by itself or with human assistance. In this study, the 3D roguelike game was designed with players playing a character to explore dungeons. Players will enter at one point, explore the surrounding environment, defeat the enemies encountered, avoid traps, collect treasure, and finally exit at another point. Each time the player starts a new game session, the game will generate a dungeon with a mission structure that changes randomly to create a variety of gameplay. This mission generation is implemented using the Graph Grammar method. The game is built using the Unity game engine and is intended to run on Android devices. Based on the black box test results, all the game's features are running well according to their functions. The built games will be evaluated using the GUESS-18 to determine the level of player satisfaction. Based on the evaluation results, the game is included in the "GOOD" category, with an overall score of 49.07 out of 63 maximum scores. The game that has been built is superior in the aspect of personal gratification, while it is weak in the aspect of social connectivity.

Generative AI Processes for 2D Platformer Game Character Design and Animation

AI has the potential to revolutionize the time-consuming and technically complex process of 2D animation production. This paper specifically focuses on creating 2D character animations for platformer games using AI. While AI has made significant contributions to video animations, its application in 2D gaming animation is largely unexplored. Existing AI applications for animation mostly target video animations and lack effective control over randomness. Therefore, this paper explores the role of generative AI in 2D gaming animation, from character design to full animation. Software tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, and Unity are used to streamline the production process. The research aims to investigate the feasibility and potential of generative AI, with a focus on controlling randomness. By leveraging the unique features of each software, the study aims to enhance the production of 2D game animations. The final output will be an animated character in the Idle state, showcasing the potential of generative AI in 2D gaming animation.

Implementation of Finite State Machine Algorithm for Interactive Physics Learning in a 3D Game

Physics is a subject taught in high schools as per the established curriculum. Teachers often employ traditional teaching methods where students study independently without active participation, leading to boredom and reduced enthusiasm for learning. Physics is frequently perceived as difficult and perplexing by most students, and the utilization of 3D games as a learning tool can help overcome these challenges. This research aims to integrate the Finite State Machine (FSM) algorithm into a 3D game to create a more effective and engaging learning experience for students. The study employs the waterfall method in application development, encompassing stages such as needs analysis, application design, FSM implementation in games, and game testing and evaluation. 3D physics games have been successfully developed and tested for their feasibility. This game serves as an effective means of entertainment and learning, aiding students in enhancing their understanding of physics subjects. According to the results of a questionnaire with 50 respondents, it is evident that this 3D game is quite user-friendly (90%) and possesses a very good user interface (89%). Approximately 78% of respondents stated that their experience in using the game was very good. Moreover, 82% of respondents found that this educational physics game was highly beneficial for learning physics material.

HyperColor: A HyperNetwork Approach for Synthesizing Autocolored 3-D Models for Game Scenes Population

Designing a 3D game scene is a tedious task that often requires a substantial amount of work. Typically, this task involves the synthesis and coloring of 3D models within the scene. To lessen this workload, we can apply machine learning to automate some aspects of the game scene development. Earlier research has already tackled automated generation of the game scene background with machine learning. However, model auto-coloring remains an underexplored problem. The automatic coloring of a 3D model is a challenging task, especially when dealing with the digital representation of a colorful, multipart object. In such a case, we have to “understand” the object’s composition and coloring scheme of each part. Moreover, existing single-stage methods have their caveats. We address these limitations by proposing a two-stage training approach to synthesize auto-colored 3D models. In the first stage, we obtain a 3D point cloud representing a 3D object, while in the second stage, we assign colors to points within such a cloud. Next, we generate a 3D mesh in which the surfaces are colored based on the interpolation of colored points representing vertices of a given mesh triangle. This approach allows us to develop a smooth coloring scheme.

“Fox Fables” an Adventure based 2D Game in Unity Game Engine

Abstract: This research paper explores "Fox Fables," a 2D adventure game developed with the Unity game engine, emphasizing dynamic storytelling and AI-driven gameplay. Players assume the role of Felix, a clever fox navigating an intricately designed world with unique characters and narratives. The Unity engine serves as the project's backbone, enabling the creation of visually stunning environments, 2D characters, and seamless gameplay mechanics. NPC characters, including Grunt Eagles, Frogs, and the formidable Gorilla, are brought to life through specific AI algorithms, such as pathfinding, Finite State Machines, and Behaviour Trees. A standout feature is the dynamic narrative system, adapting to player choices and influencing character alliances. Sparrow, Turtle, and Cat, as static NPCs, offer guidance, items, and in-game purchases. Player choices shape alliances, conflicts, and distinct outcomes in the climactic Dark Theme, where Felix faces the Gorilla in a final battle. Unity's user-friendliness and scalability contributed to an immersive and engaging gaming experience. AI algorithms effectively create realistic NPC behaviours, enriching gameplay. The dynamic narrative system enhances player engagement, providing unique storylines. In conclusion, "Fox Fables" exemplifies the fusion of narrative-driven gameplay and AI-driven character interactions. It underscores the potential of the Unity game engine and dynamic storytelling in modern game development, contributing insights to the broader field.

3D indoor modeling and game theory based navigation for pre and post COVID-19 situation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected human behavior, creating a need for individuals to be more cautious about health and safety protocols. People are becoming more aware of their surroundings and the importance of minimizing the risk of exposure to potential sources of infection. This shift in mindset is particularly important in indoor environments, especially hospitals, where there is a greater risk of virus transmission. The implementation of route planning in these areas, aimed at minimizing interaction and exposure, is crucial for positively influencing individual behavior. Accurate maps of buildings help provide location-based services, prepare for emergencies, and manage infrastructural facilities. There aren't any maps available for most installations, and there are no proven techniques to categorize features within indoor areas to provide location-based services. During a pandemic like COVID-19, the direct connection between the masses is one of the significant preventive steps. Hospitals are the main stakeholders in managing such situations. This study presents a novel method to create an adaptive 3D model of an indoor space to be used for localization and routing purposes. The proposed method infuses LiDAR-based data-driven methodology with a Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) model-driven process using game theory. The game theory determines the object localization and optimal path for COVID-19 patients in a real-time scenario using Nash equilibrium. Using the proposed method, comprehensive simulations and model experiments were done using QGIS to identify an optimized route. Dijkstra algorithm is used to determine the path assessment score after obtaining several path plans using dynamic programming. Additionally, Game theory generates path ordering based on the custom scenarios and user preference in the input path. In comparison to other approaches, the suggested way can minimize time and avoid congestion. It is demonstrated that the suggested technique satisfies the actual technical requirements in real-time. As we look forward to the post-COVID era, the tactics and insights gained during the pandemic hold significant value. The techniques used to improve indoor navigation and reduce interpersonal contact within healthcare facilities can be applied to maintain a continued emphasis on safety, hygiene, and effective space management in the long term. The use of three-dimensional (3D) modeling and optimization methodologies in the long-term planning and design of indoor spaces promotes resilience and flexibility, encouraging the adoption of sustainable and safe practices that extend beyond the current pandemic.

Text-to-movie authoring of anatomy lessons

There is a need for a simple yet comprehensive tool to produce and edit pedagogical anatomy video courses, given the widespread usage of multimedia and 3D content in anatomy instruction. Anatomy teachers have minimal control over the present anatomical content generation pipeline. In this research, we provide an authoring tool for instructors that takes text written in the Anatomy Storyboard Language (ASL), a novel domain-specific language (DSL) and produces an animated video. ASL is a formal language that allows users to describe video shots as individual sentences while referencing anatomic structures from a large-scale ontology linked to 3D models. We describe an authoring tool that translates anatomy lessons written in ASL to finite state machines, which are then used to automatically generate 3D animation with the Unity 3D game engine. The proposed text-to-movie authoring tool was evaluated by four anatomy professors to create short lessons on the knee. Preliminary results demonstrate the ease of use and effectiveness of the tool for quickly drafting narrated video lessons in realistic medical anatomy teaching scenarios.

An Internet- and Kinect-Based Multiple Sclerosis Fitness Intervention Training With Pilates Exercises: Development and Usability Study.

Balance impairments are common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), with reduced ability to maintain position and delayed responses to postural adjustments. Pilates is a popular alternative method for balance training that may reduce the rapid worsening of symptoms and the increased risk of secondary conditions (eg, depression) that are frequently associated with physical inactivity. In this paper, we aimed to describe the design, development, and usability testing of MS Fitness Intervention Training (MS-FIT), a Kinect-based tool implementing Pilates exercises customized for MS. MS-FIT has been developed using a user-centered design approach (design, prototype, user feedback, and analysis) to gain the target user's perspective. A team composed of 1 physical therapist, 2 game programmers, and 1 game designer developed the first version of MS-FIT that integrated the knowledge and experience of the team with MS literature findings related to Pilates exercises and balance interventions based on exergames. MS-FIT, developed by using the Unity 3D (Unity Technologies) game engine software with Kinect Sensor V2 for Windows, implements exercises for breathing, posture, and balance. Feedback from an Italian panel of experts in MS rehabilitation (neurologists, physiatrists, physical therapists, 1 statistician, and 1 bioengineer) and people with MS was collected to customize the tool for use in MS. The context of MS-FIT is traveling around the world to visit some of the most important cities to learn the aspects of their culture through pictures and stories. At each stay of the travel, the avatar of a Pilates teacher shows the user the exercises to be performed. Overall, 9 people with MS (n=4, 44% women; mean age 42.89, SD 11.97 years; mean disease duration 10.19, SD 9.18 years; Expanded Disability Status Scale score 3.17, SD 0.75) were involved in 3 outpatient user test sessions of 30 minutes; MS-FIT's usability was assessed through an ad hoc questionnaire (maximum value=5; higher the score, higher the usability) evaluating easiness to use, playability, enjoyment, satisfaction, and acceptance. A user-centered design approach was used to develop an accessible and challenging tool for balance training. All people with MS (9/9, 100%) completed the user test sessions and answered the ad hoc questionnaire. The average score on each item ranged from 3.78 (SD 0.67) to 4.33 (SD 1.00), which indicated a high usability level. The feedback and suggestions provided by 64% (9/14) of people with MS and 36% (5/14) of therapists involved in the user test were implemented to refine the first prototype to release MS-FIT 2.0. The participants reported that MS-FIT was a usable tool. It is a promising system for enhancing the motivation and engagement of people with MS in performing exercise with the aim of improving their physical status.

Development and research of deep neural network fusion computer vision technology

Abstract Deep learning (DL) has revolutionized advanced digital picture processing, enabling significant advancements in computer vision (CV). However, it is important to note that older CV techniques, developed prior to the emergence of DL, still hold value and relevance. Particularly in the realm of more complex, three-dimensional (3D) data such as video and 3D models, CV and multimedia retrieval remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We provide critical insights into the progress made in developing higher-dimensional qualities through the application of DL, and also discuss the advantages and strategies employed in DL. With the widespread use of 3D sensor data and 3D modeling, the analysis and representation of the world in three dimensions have become commonplace. This progress has been facilitated by the development of additional sensors, driven by advancements in areas such as 3D gaming and self-driving vehicles. These advancements have enabled researchers to create feature description models that surpass traditional two-dimensional approaches. This study reveals the current state of advanced digital picture processing, highlighting the role of DL in pushing the boundaries of CV and multimedia retrieval in handling complex, 3D data.

Rancang Bangun Game 2D " East Java Adventure" Menggunakan Unity

Young generations in Indonesia experience stress during the Covid-19 pandemic. To help reduce stress, this study aims to design a 2D game called "East Java Adventure" for the young generation aged 12 years and over via a personal computer with a Windows system. To design and develop this game, the researcher utilized various hardware and software such as Unity 2D, blender, and Photoshop. This game was tested for validity using a black box. The testing involved 10 children aged 15 years and older. The results of this study showed that 95% of "East Java Adventure" game users were interested in this game. They considered this game very satisfying due to its success in testing patience, complete features, and easy-to-understand UI display. Thus, this game is worthy of being published and is expected to help overcome stress in the younger generation in Indonesia.

Application of graphic image processing technology in 2D game interface design

Abstract This paper uses big data information processing techniques for the underlying algorithm of interface interaction, calculates the number of game interface data points, and satisfies the hierarchical feature distribution of interface interaction. Using cross-compilation for information clustering, identifying fuzzy clustering central function feature classification, describing the underlying data statistical independent variables, and extracting graphical local feature information. Balancing constraint encoding and dictionary coefficient weighting parameters, processing edge feature images, and matching grayscale transformed image effects are conveyed. The results show that the image graphics technology has an accuracy rate of 87.25% for image recognition, the user satisfaction rate for the 2D game design interface is 78.60%, and users aged 30-40 are the largest group of game consumers. It indicates that graphic image processing technology can collect and obtain relevant information and data, thus providing important technical support for the development of the social game industry and promoting the deepening development of an information society.