Interface Scale and Performance Environment: Teasing Out the Dimensions of Arcade Gameplay

This paper describes a pilot study designed to tease out two dimensions of arcade gameplay: scale of input interface and performance environment. In order to probe how each dimension affects enjoyability and engagement, we employ multiple measures, including galvanic skin response (GSR), distracter tests, Likert scale surveys, and in-game telemetry. To examine the effect of scale, we compare experiences playing on a touchscreen wall and playing on a tablet PC. To examine the effect of public versus private gameplay, we compare experiences playing alone and playing in front of a small audience. Our results suggest that larger-scale input devices are both more enjoyable and more engaging. The data was less conclusive for public versus private gameplay.