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Outline

Title
Abstract
Key Takeaways
Figures
Introduction
What is Game Design?
From Design Research to Game Design Research
Discussion
Conclusion
References

Game design research

Profile image of Annakaisa KultimaAnnakaisa Kultima

2015, Proceedings of the 19th International Academic Mindtrek Conference on - AcademicMindTrek '15

https://doi.org/10.1145/2818187.2818300
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Abstract

In this paper, notions of game studies, games research, game design, and design research are examined. As a most popular keyword on game research papers 'game design' connects the interdiscipline of game studies. However, it is typical that notions of 'design' and 'design research' are not explicitly reflected on the research papers with in the academic field of game research. The lack of onversation between game studies and general design research is visible, yet historically explainable. However, considering the maturity of the field, the presence of the theoretical frameworks of design research should be improved. Understanding game studies as design research potentially improves our understanding on game design and alleviates the bridging of the epistemic gap between the practice and academia.

Key takeaways
sparkles

AI

  1. Game design is the most prominent keyword in over 8,207 game research papers published between 2000-2014.
  2. The lack of theoretical frameworks in game design research limits its interdisciplinary potential and academic rigor.
  3. Game research struggles with epistemic friction due to diverse disciplinary origins like sociology, semiotics, and anthropology.
  4. A significant 39% of game researchers engage in industry collaborations to bridge academia and practice.
  5. Empirical studies and ethnographic research are essential for understanding game design practices and contexts.
Figures (1)
retrospectively contemplate that “Perhaps design is always about second-order problems.”
retrospectively contemplate that “Perhaps design is always about second-order problems.”

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