Project info
- Developer Laura Watson
- Showcase year 2021
- Programme Game Design and Production
Synopsis
Studies have shown that different types of gameplay can enhance certain aspects of brain cognition. It has also been documented that healthy brain cognition is potentially one of the most reliable ways to lower the risk of developing dementia. It is therefore of interest to both game developers and neuroscientists to consider if video games can be used as a means of preventing the disease.
This project explores the creative process of designing an original game that includes certain mechanics based on previous scientific studies. The original game attempts to bridge a gap between typical brain training apps such as Lumosity and conventional entertainment games such as Super Mario 64.
The game is set in a theme park where the player can experience different types of gameplay that focus on certain aspects of cognition. These include: navigation (Fantasyland Maze), attention/reaction time (Wild West 3D Platformer) and spatial awareness (Route 66 Race).
Motivation
My inspiration for this project was to look into the benefits video games can have. There is often a lot of negative press surrounding video games, the ambition of my project was to highlight some of the more positive aspects. I think video games are really interesting, both from a design point of view but also looking at how they effect brain cognition.
Credits
“Video Games and Dementia: Designing Games the Could Help the Brain” is a 2021 Digital Graduate Show project by Laura Watson, a Games Design and Production student at Abertay University.
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