A review of the use of psychophysiological methods in game research. Issue 3 (13th September 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kivikangas, J. Matias; Chanel, Guillaume; Cowley, Ben; Ekman, Inger; Salminen, Mikko; Järvelä, Simo; Ravaja, Niklas
• Is Part Of: Journal of gaming & virtual worlds. Volume 3:Issue 3(2011)
• Page Start: 181
• Page End: 199
• Publication Date: 2011-09-13
• Subjects: Virtual reality -- Periodicals; Electronic games -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Electronic games -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; Electronic games -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; 303.4834
• DOI: 10.1386/jgvw.3.3.181_1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-191X

Abstract

This article reviews the psychophysiological method in game research. Psychophysiological measurements provide an objective, continuous, real-time, noninvasive, precise and sensitive way to assess the game experience. However, the best results require controlled experiments with careful monitoring of variables, large enough sample sizes and expertise in electrical signal processing. We briefly explain the theory behind the method and present the most useful measures: electromyography (EMG), electrodermal activity (EDA), electroencephalography (EEG) and cardiac measures. We review previous studies that have used psychophysiological measures in game research and illustrate some future directions. Our article covers several research lines using the psychophysiological method in game studies, and offers a comprehensive list of references for those interested in the field.