Group Problem Solving Behavior in a Networked Puzzle Game

In this study we examined the influence on individuals of choices made by fellow participants within a group. Using a simple networked puzzle game, we studied the effects of participant group size, availability of neighbor guess information, and problem difficulty. Participants attempted to guess a hidden computer-generated picture on a small square grid game board over a series of rounds with score feedback. The guesses of other players were visible to each participant and could be copied at will. We found a significant relationship between the number of neighbor guesses participants could view and the tendency for participants to copy the solutions of others, and a decreasing tendency to imitate over rounds of a game, along with differences in score and other performance measures between isolated and grouped participants.