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Abstract

Dynamic difficulty adjustment (DDA) systems have been used and tested to improve player engagement throughout video game existence. This project examines the benefits of using DDA systems for esports training purposes. In applying hardware, that is generally used to analyse a person's emotional state, this study has adapted its use to test the potential application in esports training. Using Unreal Engine 4 and the Empatica E4 wristband, experiments were conducted to assess this future possibility of difficulty adjustment systems. Taking into consideration of players' performance, arousal, and participant opinion, testing was conducted using a mixed-mode methodology. Quantitative data was gathered during participant testing, 2 questionnaires, performance and GSR data, and an interview. Testing provided positive results suggesting that galvanic skin response (GSR) and performance based DDA systems could be beneficial for first-person shooter training and gives. Additionally, this study provides an insight into player biometric reactions to different stimuli. This work gave an understanding of the possible benefits of using these types of systems for training. Further work should be conducted to investigate the long-time effects of this training method. Additionally, different approaches must be considered to answer the full potential of using GSR and performance based DDA systems.

Course: Creative Media Technologies - BSc - C2734S

Date Deposited: 2022-11-07

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14068.html