Using Mixed Research Methodologies in the Development of Olfactory Displays

Olfactory displays (digital interfaces that generate and diffuse smells to a user with a purpose) have been proposed and researched to support the user experience (UX) of video game players. These emerging human-computer interfaces have great potential for stimulating players' mood, helping immerse them in video game scenarios, and supporting other human senses used for playing games, among other useful applications. However, little is known about effective mixed research and reporting methodologies for developing and testing olfactory displays in video games. These interfaces pose a number of multidisciplinary research challenges, such as how to measure the smell perception in video game players. This workshop paper will discuss mixed research methodologies on the development of olfactory displays in video games, such as the use of usability questionnaires and field testing, and reporting aspects regarding quantitative and qualitative aspects on the odors and players' UX.