Image versus Sound: A Comparison of Formal Feature Effects on Presence and Video Game Enjoyment

This study investigates the relative influence of two formal features of video games—image quality and sound quality—on presence and enjoyment. A 2 x 2 between subjects experiment was conducted manipulating image quality (high definition vs. standard definition) and sound quality (Dolby 5.1 surround sound vs. Dolby stereo). Results indicated that, while image quality had no effect on outcomes, sound quality almost universally impacted outcomes of interest, including several dimensions of presence and enjoyment. Implications of these findings are discussed.