Game Development Research Articles

Motivation Elements in Game-Based Learning (GBL) for Tajweed Learning

Tajweed is a Quranic knowledge, and it is essential to provide a Quranic generation that is fluently and accurately reading the Quran. Unfortunately, previous studies depicted many students unable to read the Quran and indicated low achievement in Quranic subjects. Therefore, there is a need for efforts to create an interactive environment that can support the teaching and learning process, such as Game-Based Learning (GBL). GBL is a teaching aid that can be customized for teaching and learning and encourages students to be actively involved. Meanwhile, various factors are still being investigated in game design to ensure the success of GBL implementation, including motivational elements as an aspect of game design. Therefore, this study aims to identify the effect of GBL design on students' motivation in learning Tajweed. The game (i-Tajweed) deployed a Game Development Framework (GDF) and was tested using a quasi-experimental method on 120 students at primary schools by a purposive sampling method. The study used a set of questionnaires and a set of Tajweed Tests as the instruments for collecting data. The findings of the analysis revealed that the level of significance (0.000 < 0.05) value of the correlation coefficient (r) is 0.310. The result suggests that there is a significant correlation between student's achievement and motivation. Hence, the result proves that using GBL with motivational elements in the design can increase student motivation positively.

Responsibility and Care in AI/ML Education: A Collaborative Approach to Ethical Awareness

ABSTRACTThe rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has led to significant innovations but also raised ethical concerns. Researchers and students designed an ethical online game in this study to spread awareness about making informed decisions when using AI and ML. Conducted within a directed research group (DRG) curricular method, the study engages students as co‐researchers to develop a game, from developing ideas to playtesting the game in a class setting. The study employs a quantitative methodology to analyze a survey that 32 students, each with diverse backgrounds and knowledge in game development, conducted after each class session over three semesters. Findings indicate that self‐reported engagement changes depending on the activities done in each session, with students feeling capable of contributing to research and game design.

Pembuatan Game 2D Melawan Virus Menggunakan Unity Engine

A game or game is something that can be played with certain rules so that there are winners and there are losers, usually in a context that is not serious with the purpose of refreshing. Various games include; action, action-adventure, simulation, construction, and management, role playing games (RPG), strategy, racing, sports, puzzles, and word games. To create a digital game, a game engine designed to develop video games on various platforms is required. The Unity Engine can be used to create 2D (two-dimensional) and 3D (three-dimensional) games and supports a wide range of cross-platform devices such as smartphones, PCs, PlayStation 5, and many other platforms. In this study, the researcher wants to implement the creation of a 2D game called LAVIR using the GDLC (Game Development Life Cycle) method. The creation of this game aims to reduce anxiety, fear and eliminate boredom.

How expansion to the Nintendo Switch impacts PC players’ game usage and spending: A study of an omni-channel strategy

Offering multiple retail channels for browsing and purchasing—an omni-channel strategy—is a well-established approach for modern retailers. This strategy is also increasingly adopted by ’online-first’ digital services such as social media and video gaming to expand consumer reach and enhance customer engagement. However, unlike the potential complementary relationships between physical and digital channels, it is unclear whether a firm’s channel expansion within the digital area (e.g., online to mobile) benefits firms or merely redistributes existing demand without growth. Using the context of a major online video game, we assess whether creating a mobile console version of an existing PC-based game causes meaningful behavioral changes among existing users. We find that mobile console adoption significantly impacts mobile channel adopters’ engagement, with a 31% increase in games played and a 6.9% increase in voluntary spending. Further analysis reveals that mobile console adopters enjoy the game over a broader range of hours, suggesting increased (ubiquitous) access is the mechanism behind this positive impact. Additionally, mobile adopters make more purchases, although they do not necessarily spend more per purchase. We also observe that the impact of the mobile game is more pronounced among players at high risk of churning and those with sparse voluntary spending. Finally, our analysis shows that new mobile players experience a slight but significant dip in in-game performance. This finding suggests a need for game developers to help players mitigate the downside risk of transitioning between two distinct user environments.

Development of Small Games for Motoric Skills of Primary School Students in Rambang Kapak Tengah Subdistrict

The need for small games is still a severe concern for PJOK SD teachers in the Rambang Kapak Tengah subdistrict, considering that the problems faced by students in the current technological era impact the poor quality of students’ motor skills. Small games play a crucial role in physical education as they allow students to develop various skills in a fun and engaging way. These games help improve physical fitness and promote teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking. By incorporating small games into physical education classes, teachers can create a dynamic learning environment that motivates students to participate actively and develop a lifelong love for physical activity. This research aims to determine the development of small games for valid and practical motor skills for Prabumulih City elementary school students. This research is an RnD research with an ADDIE research design. Field trials were conducted on students at SDN 62 in the Rambang Kapak Tengah subdistrict. Data collection was carried out by distributing questionnaires. Data analysis was carried out based on percentage analysis. This research produced ten types of small games for students’ motor skills. These games include the Jaripapat game, the popular game, the Ringkup game, the Lakar game, the lontang game, the Keder game, the Umkap game, the Lekar game, the Lorung game and the Lodeng game.

Ойындардағы кейіпкерлердің дизайны. Кейіпкерлер дизайны теориясын талдау және зерттеу

In the contemporary gaming market, characters play a pivotal role in the success of games, particularly in app stores. When players browse for games within a specific genre, their initial attention is often drawn to the game's characters. Positioned alongside the game's title, characters serve as visual symbols and are displayed in conjunction with key information such as ratings and download numbers. The appearance of a game’s character allows users to quickly assess the genre, visual style, and the preferences of the target audience. While technological advancements are crucial for game development, a comprehensive analysis of character design from an artistic and aesthetic perspective is essential for achieving market success. This article employs analytical methods to explore the design and artistic characteristics of game characters, with the goal of gaining deeper insights into the creative processes of game developers. It also seeks to ensure that characters are perceived in alignment with the core concept of the game. Additionally, by examining current trends in the gaming industry, the analysis offers insights into developing effective character design concepts that resonate with players and enhance a game's appeal. Furthermore, a review of trends in the modern gaming industry allows for conclusions about the role of characters and their impact on the success of the game. The visual and functional elements of characters should harmoniously align with the game’s theme and atmosphere, enhancing players' emotional connection and ensuring long-term engagement.

AI-Driven Traffic Simulation using Unity: Implementing Finite State Machines for Adaptive NPC Behaviour

This research develops an AI-powered traffic simulation using the Unity Engine, leveraging finite state machines (FSM) to enable adaptive and responsive non-player characters (NPCs). The integration of FSM with advanced pathfinding algorithms, such as A*, allows NPCs to dynamically adjust their behavior based on traffic conditions, obstacles, and environmental changes. The experimental results indicate a 25% improvement in route optimization and a 30% reduction in path conflicts compared to conventional static models, demonstrating the robustness of the proposed approach. Optimized navmesh deployment further enhances navigation fluidity, ensuring efficient agent movement in high-density scenarios without compromising system performance. The findings establish the effectiveness of the FSM-driven NPC behavior in simulating realistic traffic environments, contributing both to the advancement of AI applications in game development and urban planning. By providing an interactive platform for traffic management, this simulation offers a practical tool to study congestion patterns and test intervention strategies. In addition, it improves player engagement by fostering emergent gameplay through dynamic NPC interactions. Future work could explore the integration of real-time procedural generation or multiplayer functionality to enrich simulation depth and scalability. This study provides a comprehensive framework that bridges AI-based mechanics with simulation technology, providing significant insights for researchers and practitioners in game design, artificial intelligence, and urban planning.

Amplifying Player Experience to Facilitate Prosocial Outcomes in a Narrative-Based Serious Game

The rise and development of serious games have shown promise in addressing critical social issues, including school bullying. However, prior work often compares game-based interventions with the conventional non-game approach, failing to generate insights about which game features should be emphasized to create more effective games. To bridge this research gap, in light of video games’ advantages for creating immersive experiences that benefit persuasion, we created a narrative-based serious game addressing school bullying and conducted two studies (Study 1, <em>N</em> = 130; Study 2, <em>N</em> = 250) to explore the persuasive effects of two game features, respectively player–avatar similarity and in-game control, on player experience (including player–avatar identification, narrative engagement, and empathy) and prosocial intention. We found mixed results subject to player perspective such that only when players took the bully’s perspective did one of the game features—in-game control—successfully create the intended empathy via amplified narrative engagement toward the desirable prosocial intention.

DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTERACTIVE WEBSITE WITH DIDACTIC GAMES TO ENHANCE VOCABULARY IN YOUNG STUDENTS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

The article investigates the development of a website that includes interactive didactic games designed to improve the vocabulary of primary schoolchildren with intellectual disabilities. It describes the importance of developing vocabulary in children with intellectual disabilities and shows how the game approach can be an effective tool for teaching and developing speech in this category of children. The process of developing a website with didactic games is considered, which includes the selection of appropriate software, interface design, development of interactive tasks and games, as well as testing and improvement of the website. In particular, the article discusses methods and approaches to creating games aimed at developing lexical skills, expanding vocabulary and improving communication skills in children with intellectual disabilities. The advantages of using interactive didactic games in the educational process of junior schoolchildren with intellectual disabilities are highlighted. They stimulate children's interest in learning words and expanding their vocabulary, develop cognitive and speech skills, improve memory and concentration, and increase motivation and enjoyment of learning. A game-based approach can keep children interested, motivated, and effective, helping them to develop their language skills and achieve greater academic success. The website was created on the wix platform. The collection of didactic games was developed on the LearningApps platform. There are various types of tasks, for example quizzes, puzzles, crosswords, matching exercises, etc. Images for didactic games were generated by playground.ai artificial intelligence, which opens up new opportunities for creating visually appealing games and tasks. The importance of developing website with interactive didactic games for the development of vocabulary of younger students with intellectual disabilities is emphasized, they can become an effective tool for teaching and developing speech in children of this category, contributing to their success in learning and overall development.

DEVELOPMENT OF RESPIRATORY SYSTEM RPG GAME USING UNITY WITH A* (A STAR) ALGORITHM

This research addresses the need for more engaging and interactive methods to improve elementary students' understanding of complex scientific concepts, particularly the respiratory system. To overcome the limitations of traditional teaching methods, an educational Role-Playing Game (RPG) incorporating the A* (A-Star) algorithm was developed for optimal game navigation. The study followed the ADDIE development model, which involves Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. During the analysis phase, learning needs were determined through interviews and classroom observations. The design phase involved creating game scenarios and integrating educational content with interactive elements. The A* algorithm was applied during development to ensure efficient navigation. The game was implemented in a 5th-grade classroom in Kuningan, and its effectiveness was evaluated using pre-tests, post-tests, and student questionnaires. Results demonstrated a significant increase in students' understanding, with average post-test scores rising from 58 to 85. Feedback from both students and teachers was very positive, with the game receiving a 94.2% acceptance rate. The study suggests that RPG-based educational games with intelligent algorithms like A* can greatly enhance science education by offering a more engaging and effective learning experience, contributing to advancements in technology-based learning and setting a standard for future educational game development.

Video game accessibility in the top-level genres

AbstractThis study aims to investigate the relationship between top-level game genres, release dates, game modes, and accessibility features in commercial video games. For this goal, datasets were created that included 25 games in 11 top-level genres except for experimental games. G-tests were used to examine differences in the proportions of accessibility features between genres, focusing on sensory, motor, and cognitive disabilities. Additionally, regression analyses were performed to assess the effect of genres, release dates, and single-player/multiplayer modes on the number of accessibility features. The results showed significant differences between the top-level genres and the number of all three types of accessibility features. Regression analyses showed significant effects of the top-level genres on the number of accessibility features, while release dates showed no significant influence. Game modes only had a significant effect on accessibility features regarding motor disabilities. In conclusion, the results of this study present genre-specific numbers of accessibility features in commercial video games. In other words, game developers create accessibility features differently depending on the genre. These findings have practical implications for both developers and players to enhance the inclusivity of the gaming experience. The results can also be used to increase awareness and commitment to the importance of accessibility features in the gaming industry, ultimately creating more inclusive commercial video games.

App-Based Volleyball Scoreboard Performance Evaluation

Study purpose. This research aims to develop and evaluate an application-based volleyball scoreboard game device designed to facilitate the process of recording and managing scores in real time. Materials and methods. This research uses the R&D development method which aims to develop a device-based volleyball game scoreboard application. This research involved 3 IT experts, 5 referees who acted as evaluators of the initial product that had been developed. In addition, there were 5 samples in the small-scale test and 30 samples in the large-scale test. Results. The results of the analysis of the development of application-based volleyball scoreboard game devices by conducting feasibility / justification tests involving economic, technical, business and environmental aspects by refereeing experts, which obtained an average value of 91.60%, where the value was included in the very good category. While the results of the analysis of IT experts obtained an average value of 90.89%, where the value is included in the very good category. The results of the analysis of the effectiveness of the media development of the application-based volleyball scoreboard game device through a small scale test, which obtained an average value of 92.63%, which means it can be concluded that the development model of the application-based volleyball scoreboard game device that has been developed can be implemented/applied with a very good category. Meanwhile, the results of the large-scale test or broad-scale test obtained an average value of 90.94%, which means it can be concluded that the development model of the application-based volleyball scoreboard game device that has been developed is in the excellent category. Conclusion. In conclusion, this application-based volleyball scoreboard game device can be an effective solution to overcome the obstacles of manual score recording, while improving the quality of organising volleyball matches

Development and evaluation of an emergency department serious game for undergraduate medical students

BackgroundSerious games are risk-free environments training various medical competencies, such as clinical reasoning, without endangering patients’ safety. Furthermore, serious games provide a context for training situations with unpredictable outcomes. Training these competencies is particularly important for healthcare professionals in emergency medicine.MethodsBased on these considerations, we designed, implemented, and evaluated a serious game in form of an emergency department, containing the features of a virtual patient generator, a chatbot for medical history taking with self-formulated questions, artificially generated faces based on an artificial intelligence algorithm, and feedback for students. The development process was based on an already existing framework resulting in an iterative procedure between development and evaluation. The serious game was evaluated using the System Usability Scale and the User Experience Questionnaire.ResultsThe System Usability Scale provided a substantial result for the usability. In terms of the user experience, four scales yielded positive results, whereas two scales yielded neutral results.ConclusionThe evaluation of both usability and user experience yielded overall positive results, while simultaneously identifying potential areas for improvement. Further studies will address the implementation of additional game design elements, and testing student learning outcome.

Hiding in the shadows: a qualitative exploration of women gamers identities and perceptions of the video gaming context

Video gaming has evolved into a complex, digital landscape where gender dynamics are increasingly scrutinised. While women now constitute a significant portion of the gaming population, they face unique challenges in a traditionally male-dominated space. Despite the growing presence of women in gaming, persistent gender inequalities continue to shape their experiences and identities within gaming cultures. This qualitative study explored how women gamers conceptualise their identities and navigate their experiences in the video gaming context, focusing on motivations, well-being, and representation. Utilising a feminist theoretical perspective and social constructionist epistemology, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 international women gamers (aged 23–43, M = 28, SD = 5.51). Findings constructed through our reflexive thematic analysis highlighted how women negotiate their identities within often hostile gaming environments, revealing both challenges and sources of resilience. Participants reported using strategies such as concealing their gender and creating private gaming communities to mitigate harassment. However, they also described gaming as a source of empowerment, offering opportunities for identity exploration and stress relief. Our research contributes to understanding gender dynamics in gaming by providing nuanced insights into women’s lived experiences, challenging simplistic narratives about their identities, preferences, and behaviours. Implications for game developers, community managers, and policymakers are discussed, offering guidance for creating more inclusive gaming environments that cater to diverse players and combat gender-based discrimination.

Development of the UNOChem Game to Improve Students Critical Thinking Skills on Factors that Affect the Reaction Rate Topic

The UNOChem game is a development of the UNO Stacko game that has been modified and designed with chemistry materials. This research aims to develop UNOChem games to improve students' critical thinking skills on the material factors that affect the appropriate reaction rate. The feasibility of the UNOChem game is seen in its validity, practicality, and effectiveness. This research refers to 4D design with three stages: define, design, and development. The limited trial was carried out in class XI-2 of SMAN 1 Kedamean. The indicators used in this study are interpretation, analysis, and inference. The validity was obtained from the results of the game assessment by two chemistry lecturers and one chemistry teacher. Practicality was obtained from observation of student activities and a questionnaire of student responses after using the UNOChem game. Effectiveness was obtained from the student's critical thinking skills test results. The study results showed that the validity obtained in each aspect of the obtaining mode was ≥ 4. The practicality of the UNOChem game based on the results of observation of students' activities as a whole got a practicality percentage of 87.4%. Meanwhile, based on the student response questionnaire, in the aspect of describing the level of students' interest in the UNOChem game, the percentage of practicality was 100%; in the aspect of describing the level of ease of understanding the material and doing critical thinking problems in understanding the material, the percentage of practicality was 93.3%. In describing the ease of using the game in the game, the rate of practicality was 94.9%. The game's effectiveness was obtained through an n-gain test with a score of 0.72. The effectiveness of the media is supported by the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test (a non-parametric test), which shows a Sig. A value of 0.000 means there is a significant difference, and the UNOChem game can be declared effective. Based on the research results, the UNOChem game is suitable for learning material activities related to factors that affect the reaction rate of class XI high school.

Development of Website-Based Traditional Games as an Introduction to Local Culture for Early Age Children

Development of Website-Based Traditional Games as an Introduction to Local Culture for Early Age Children

GAME DEVELOPMENT PROJECT MANAGEMENT USING SCRUM FRAMEWORK: HYPERCASUAL GAME CASE STUDY 'RUSH RUNNER'

The research aims to explore and implement an effective Project Management approach in Game Development using the Scrum Framework. A case study was conducted on the development of a hypercasual game titled "Rush Runner." With a focus on rapid iterations, continuous feedback, and adaptation to changes, the Scrum methodology was used to manage the game development workflow from planning to publication. Concrete steps were taken to adapt to user needs and evolving demands as an integral part of the development process. The research findings indicate that the implementation of Scrum had a positive impact on productivity, quality, and user satisfaction in hypercasual game development. Furthermore, the integration of Project Management and the Scrum approach optimized overall time, cost, and quality. These findings provide valuable insights for practitioners and researchers in the field of game development to understand the importance of an adaptive and responsive Project Management approach to market changes and user needs.

The Bajau-Tainment: An AI-Powered Puzzle Game for Learning the Bajau Language Using Finite State Machine and Shuffle Techniques

The research titled "Bajau-tainment" Educational Game (Edu-game) is a research project that focuses on the development of a Puzzle Game designed to improve memory, specifically in language learning. In this game, players must arrange randomized letters to form a word in the Bajau language. This research applies the shuffle random algorithm, which aims to ensure that the arrangement of letters is always shuffled, making the gameplay dynamic, non-monotonous, and engaging. AI Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology will also be applied in this research. Using the Finite State Machine (FSM) model method, the game will feature a game agent character that will accompany children during gameplay, like how a friend accompanies students in a classroom. This virtual friend can display emotions such as happiness or sadness based on the game environment. The research aims to make this edu-game more appealing and interactive for children. The AI game agent will act as a friend who accompanies the child throughout the game.

Parasocial Interactions in Otome Games: Emotional Engagement and Parasocial Intimacy Among Chinese Female Players

This study conducts qualitative research on female players of otome games, exploring the mechanisms of romantic relationship formation within these games and their impact on perceptions of real-life intimate relationships. The findings reveal that the parasocial romantic relationships formed in otome games are not entirely detached from reality; instead, they are embedded in daily life through game interaction mechanisms and the players’ internalized imagination, thereby influencing the reconstruction of real-life intimate relationships. Female players show a high degree of acceptance and immersion in these romantic relationships, focusing on the emotional support provided by male characters. These relationships play a positive role in fulfilling emotional needs, regulating negative emotions, constructing self-identity, and redefining perceptions of intimacy. The intangibility of physical contact remains the only significant shortcoming, as perceived by a minority of players, pointing to a primary direction for the future development of otome games.

Gamification as a Tool to Improve Vocabulary in English Language in High-School Students

Gamification has gained popularity among educators who perceive it as a useful tool for carrying out the teaching-learning process optimally. The lack of positive results in the learning of English as a foreign language has become one of the main challenges Mexico faces considered the language as a priority. English teachers know the importance of finding options to present new words to students in a way they could learn appropriately. Vocabulary is a meaningful key of language learning, based on it, other skills are developed. Trough unplugged gamification there has been determinate the relation between the strategy and academic results in written tests in vocabulary area, specifically nouns, among fourth-semester students in high-school education at Plantel Norte, Escuela de Bachilleres. The study follows a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design, correlational scope, and a longitudinal study moment when nouns have been measured based on tests administered before and after the development and use of these low-cost games.