This thesis aims to analyze the “tension” in video games by using an experiment-based practical approach. It examines different lighting conditions and how people perceive them in virtual environments. “Flow Theory”  and “Circumplex Model” are used as theoretical frameworks to define the term tension and serve as the basis of the experiment. For the experiment, a scene is created primarily inspired by the video game Resident Evil: Village. Different lighting conditions are applied to the scene in order to understand how lighting qualities can invoke various emotions in the context of tension. A survey is conducted on people with diverse backgrounds to observe their reactions and understand their perception  of their surroundings.

This project is an elaboration of how luminaire design can provide for fundamental human needs. Visual needs in terms of task performance, orientability and visual comfort; emotional needs in terms of soothing feelings of safeness and cosiness; and biological needs in terms of circadian rhythm and resetting of our biological clock in the morning. These needs are tested through three bedroom scenarios named focus, contemplation and dawn, each with their own demands and desires on lighting qualities.  I have submerged into desired lighting qualities and atmosphere in a bedroom context; into how circadian rhythm can be promoted through lighting design; into how the perception of space can be effected through light; into how responsible use of natural resources can be achieved; and finally into what the impact and consequences of the design intervention are. The investigation is performed in a generic bedroom situation without daylight considerations. A prototype has been produced in order to perform observations and measurements.  Through the investigation I can state that luminaire design is able to provide for visual, emotional and biological needs. By simultaneously working with light qualities and shape of the luminaire, and having formulated the specific scenarios focus, contemplation and dawn, qualitative observations and experience could be supplemented by quantitative measurements and drive the design process forward towards intended lighting effects, characteristics and impacts on the human body and mind.