Building a multi-input racing game

Overview

Topic status: We're looking for students to study this topic.

Project Summary

Videogames can currently be played using a variety of controller types. It is important to explore how these control types change the play experience (for example in terms of intuitiveness, precision, engagement and enjoyment). One barrier to research in this space is that the different control types are often not equivalent in terms of the assistance provided to the player in the game. For example, in racing games, the player is often not assisted at all when playing with the a traditional controller but might be given a margin or error when playing with an alternative steering device (for example a wii-mote based steering wheel). The current project will involve two components (the successful applicant might focus on part a, part b or both). Part A: review existing controllers and games and determine how they differ in terms of the way they are mapped to the virtual interface. Part B: build a videogame (most likely a racing game) in which the degree of 1-to-1 mapping and precision between the controllers (a standard xbox controller and a steering wheel) and the game can be varied.

Research activities undertaken during the project e.g. data gathering,

  • Literature Review
  • Game Development
  • Report Writing

Expected outcomes, applications and/or benefits

A racing videogame that can be controlled by either a traditional controller or steering wheel and which the degree of “assistance” offered to the player can be varied.

A written report detailing the design process and the observed outcomes.

Public promotion of the student’s work in a real world setting.

Publication opportunities.

Pathway into Honours.

Collaboration with existing researchers and HDR students in the Games Research and Interaction Design Lab.

Required student skills/experience

Literature search and writing skills and/or Software design and development.

Duration of project

12 weeks: mid November to late February (flexible)

Number of hours: 20-30 hours per week

Study level
Vacation research experience scholarship
Supervisors
QUT
Organisational unit

Science and Engineering Faculty

Research area

Computer Science

Keywords
game, multi-input, racing
Contact
Contact the supervisor for more information