Hypothesis

‘The player character does not need to be designed in a video game.’

Aims & Objectives

This research project has investigated whether it is necessary to design the player character in a video game.

To prove or disprove the above hypothesis I have examined the reasons against designing the player character, the reasons why the player character should be designed and conducted a survey to gather consumer preferences on the player character.

Method

I began by studying secondary sources of information such as books, films, articles and blogs through the Nottingham Trent library, online search engines and online streaming media. During this time I documented any sources of information whether they would be used in my analysis or not, they can be found in the Blog section of this research project. The information I found provided evidence for both sides of the argument as well as informing me on the topics that I should investigate further in the survey.

I then gathered primary data from consumers to produce statistics on player preferences in terms of the player character. As my investigation focused around the player I felt the most appropriate method of research was to distribute a survey to people who play video games. I gathered as many responses as possible within a two-week period through a survey website (www.freeonlinesurveys.com) and distributed it through social media. The results of this survey were then compiled into an Excel spreadsheet that I could then analyse and produce percentages from to support or contradict points made in the secondary research.

After collecting both secondary and primary data I analysed and discussed the information forming both for and against arguments regarding the hypothesis. This then allowed me to conclude whether the hypothesis was correct and bring forward any additional points that needed further investigation.

Scope & Limits

The video games industry is fast developing therefore I have been aware that many facts and figures in secondary sources may be irrelevant.

Video games can be played on a variety of devices such as game consoles, portable game consoles, desktop computers, laptops and mobile/smart phones. Characters are represented in games on all of these platforms however for the purpose of this investigation I restricted my research to games that can be played on game consoles, desktop computers and laptops. The reasons being that these devices offer a more complex level of gameplay as well as higher graphic qualities than a portable device. There is also a large variety of games that can be played on these platforms that offer a range of point of views and character narratives.

Video games may not be perceived as a sensitive topic, nevertheless I was strict in maintaining the confidentiality of respondents and requesting permission before any private information could be used.

Rationale

Writers have tried and tested the techniques for what makes a successful story whereas video games are only a few decades old and designers are still trying to understand them as a storytelling form. The games industry is bigger than the book industry and even the film industry therefore consumers have invested a lot of time and money into video games, to provide innovative and entertaining forms of interactive storytelling, the industry needs to continue to understand what it is the player wants.

This research project is the basis of my major project in the final year of my degree therefore the information I have found out will inform my design proposal. This investigation focuses on the user and their experiences, which I will then relate to a physical space. Site analysis, idea and initial programme of activities can be found in the Site tab.

Definition of Terms

As mentioned a video game is a game played by electronically manipulating images produced by a computer program on a monitor or other display, throughout this research project a game refers to a video game unless stated otherwise.

Job descriptions will vary depending on the company but traditionally a game designer covers all aspects of the game’s design including gameplay, interface and world. A writer covers features such as the game’s story, character dialogue and narration text. Both roles will work closely together to create a video game and in some companies there may not be separate roles. To avoid confusion, throughout this research project when referring to game design I have used the title of game designer which covers all aspects of the creative process including the story and character etc.

As mentioned above, the player character is the character the player controls whilst playing the game. Unless stated otherwise, when I refer to character it is in relation to the player character. I am at no point in this research project referring to non-player characters (the other characters in a video game that you may interact with or see).

In all games that contain a player character of some form there is an element of character design by the video game designers, for example with video games where the player can create their own character, the individual components that they can choose from need to have been designed. When discussing the design of the character by the game designers I am referring to a detailed character profile as described in the opening paragraphs.

When discussing the players control over the character it is in terms of appearance and personality traits. All games offer the ability to level up because that is what keeps a player interested therefore the following levels of control over the character do not include weapons and ability.

The player is…