This thesis investigates the use of scaffolding techniques in video game design to increase player engagement and satisfy psychological needs as defined by self-determination theory (SDT). It focuses on how games use scaffolding mechanisms to improve player autonomy, competence, and relatedness—the three fundamental needs proposed by SDT as ways to promote intrinsic motivation. The study also examines self-scaffolding strategies employed by players, exploring how they independently leverage game features to meet their psychological needs. Through case studies on games including Hearthstone, Magic: the Gathering Arena, and Path of Exile, the research analyzes the application of scaffolding and self-scaffolding using formal analysis of game tutorials and systems, as well as discourse analysis of player and specialist discussions about these aspects. The findings indicate that Hearthstone's tutorial, which effectively uses scaffolding, is well received by players, while the scaffolding in Magic: the Gathering Arena is not as effective. Path of Exile's complex skill tree promotes self-scaffolding, highlighting the importance of self-directed learning in intricate game environments. The study concludes that effective scaffolding design is essential for onboarding players, but tutorials should be skippable to accommodate experienced players. At the same time, games should provide sufficient structure to guide player learning while allowing freedom for exploration, innovation, and self-directed learning.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:UPSALLA1/oai:DiVA.org:uu-532740 |
| Date | January 2024 |
| Creators | Yuheng, Liang |
| Publisher | Uppsala universitet, Institutionen för speldesign |
| Source Sets | DiVA Archive at Upsalla University |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Student thesis, info:eu-repo/semantics/bachelorThesis, text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Rights | info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess |
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