Player Exploration and Behaviors : The Influence of Player Navigation

Abstract: Guiding a player through a 3D environment can be a difficult task, especially in a game with a choice of multiple paths. Because of this, designers are often forced to implement various navigational tools such as maps, user interface (UI) elements and written explanations to help the player get from one point to another. This study explores the possibility of using research of spatial design along with player exploration patterns to better influence how player navigates in game environments.Player background and player navigation pattern data were gathered through a survey taken by 97 participants. This survey contained 13 pictures with multiple pathways, where participants needed to choose a pathway for different stated contexts. The pictures themselves were based on research of design methods meant to help guide or communicate to the player via the environment.The result showed that it is possible to influence players if the