Computer games have grown above and beyond simple entertainment activities. Researchers and practitioners have attempted to utilize games in many innovative ways such as educational games, therapeutic games, simulation games, and gamification of utilitarian applications. Although much attention has been drawn to investigate positive impact of games in recent years, prior research has only studied isolated fragments of a game system. More research on games is called on in order to develop and utilize games for the benefit of society.
At a high level, a game system has three basic elements: system input, process, and system outcome. System input concerns the external factors impacting the game system. It may include, but is not limited to, player personalities and motivations to play games. The process is about game mechanism and play experience. System outcome includes the effects of game play. There is no doubt that users are involved in all three elements. Human Computer Interaction (HCI) plays a critical role in the study of games. By examining player characteristics, interactions during game play, and behavioral implications of game play, HCI professionals can help design and develop better games for the society.
The 4th International conference on HCI in Games (HCI-Games) intends to help, promote and encourage research in this field by providing a forum for interaction and exchanges among researchers, academics, and practitioners in the fields of HCI and games. The Conference addresses HCI principles, methods and tools for better games.
Xiaowen Fang
DePaul University, USA