Using Vitruvius as a Framework for Applied Game Design

The number of games designed for various applications in healthcare is growing rapidly. However, balancing the game can be a difficult task, especially without a guiding vision or design framework. Here, we propose a philosophical framework inspired by the ancient Roman architect Vitruvius, which can be used as an approach to designing and developing applied games for healthcare and other contexts. Vitruvius believed any well designed artefact should exhibit the three principles of firmitas (soundness or durability), utilitas (utility or convenience) and venustas (attractiveness or beauty). We describe the Vitruvian approach to applied game design with the help of the design process of Moodbot -­‐‐ a game for mental healthcare. In this paper, we reflect on the Moodbot project and the application of the Vitruvian triad herein.