Bachelor Thesis: Digital vs tangible data visualisation
In computer and video games and especially in competitive computer games it is known that steep learning curves are a regular struggle for players, especially for beginner players as a lot is going on and players need to learn a wide set of skills at the same time. This might make games unenjoyable for starters and they might pass on a game that could be meant for them. A device was created to accompany and help beginners to understand some core aspects, lowering the heavy load of information on their shoulders.
The design is created for the game League of Legends. What is lacking in the field of available tools is for one the ability to set and pursue goals to self-improve, but also the ability to learn and adept during the game based on the player’s personal gameplay instead of a purely informational analysis after the game. Therefore the focus was directed to creating a real-time personalised data visualisation tool that helps beginner players tackle the steep learning curve of league. This is done through a tangible device to explore a new field of data visualisation and potential advantages it might have towards learning behaviour and League of Legends.
The tangible device is compared to a digital device with the same functionalities to explore these advantages towards either side.
The concept and the design were received well and perceived as useful. Unexpectedly, the design was deemed for a different or broader larger group than intended taking weaker but experienced players as potential users as well. It still could be improved in various areas, but the concept of receiving live personalised data and feedback about the match was exciting for the players. One wanted to actively keep using the prototype as it was to learn.
On the digital versus physical data visualisation matter: no obvious winner could be concluded, but this was as expected. Instead various minor influences were found that should be further explored and could have impact on the effectivity of the design. The context of the design would than determine which type should be chosen. The visual saliency and time pressure that is created by the gaming environment favours the physical prototype, however the versatility and variability of the digital device has advantages within the gaming world as well.
