Using player's facial emotional expressions as a game input : Effects on narrative engagement

Abstract: Even self generated facial expression could hypothetically affect emotional engagement in narrative and with it possibly even other aspects of narrative engagement. This thesis evaluates effects of using player's facial emotional expressions as a game decision input in a social situation on narrative engagement and its dimensions. To evaluate this, players' experiences from each of the versions of for this purpose developed game are collected, compared and analysed. The data collection is conducted through Busselle's and Bilandzic's (2009) narrative engagement scale, additional questions, observations and short interview with focus on characters and goals. Effects on narrative engagement couldn't be statistically proven. However, from the analysis was shown, that using player's facial emotional expressions as a game decision input in a social situation could possibly positively affect empathic engagement with characters and enjoyment.