Development of a Teen-Focused Exergame

Abstract

Introduction: Exergames require body movement to play and may be an effective method for enhancing teen physical activity (PA). However, results have been mixed. Innovative methods are needed to develop Exergames that increase and maintain PA. Self-representational avatars, or avatars created from a digital image of an individual, may increase PA (e.g., intensity, duration) during Exergame play. This article addresses this novel idea by describing the development of an Exergame played with a self-representational avatar. Materials and Methods: Twelve-to 14-year-olds, stratified by gender, body mass index, and PA, were invited to participate in two rounds of data collection. Each round consisted of an online survey, followed by a telephone interview to ensure comprehension of survey responses. After the first round, an Exergame prototype and the system for creating the self-representational avatar were created. A second round of data was collected to obtain information with which to create a fully functional Exergame and the avatar creation system. Results: Forty-eight teens were recruited. The sample was multi-ethnic (41.7% White, 37.5% Black, 18.8% Hispanic, 2.1% Mixed/Other). Complete data were obtained on 48 teens in the first round of data collection and on 43 teens in the second round. Teens provided important information regarding preferences and expectations. Gender similarities and differences were observed. Conclusion: This research contributes to the body of knowledge regarding how to design an appealing Exergame for teens navigated by a self-representational avatar.

Design Features Associated with User Engagement in Digital Games for Healthy Lifestyle Promotion in Youth: A Systematic Review of Qualitative and Quantitative Studies

“…80 One study mentioned a preference for a fit between the characters and the health topic in the game. 74 Characters, however, seemed to be less important for engagement than the storyline, 77 which was considered as very important. 60,67,77,83 Having a narrative in the game was preferred to a nonnarrative game.…”

“…74 Characters, however, seemed to be less important for engagement than the storyline, 77 which was considered as very important. 60,67,77,83 Having a narrative in the game was preferred to a nonnarrative game. 82 Important aspects of the storyline were its originality, 77 especially among older youth 78 ; that it fits their personal life, in terms of both realism 59,81,83 and their cognitive abilities 77 ; and that it has a sufficiently high pace.…”

“…60,67,77,83 Having a narrative in the game was preferred to a nonnarrative game. 82 Important aspects of the storyline were its originality, 77 especially among older youth 78 ; that it fits their personal life, in terms of both realism 59,81,83 and their cognitive abilities 77 ; and that it has a sufficiently high pace. 78 A narrative that could facilitate transfer of the learned behavior to real life (e.g., conversations with parents and partners about sexual health) was appreciated.…”

“…of nontext information, were considered as very important by users, 59,67,84 whereas animation, that is, appearance of motion created by displaying a series of still images in sequence, was less important. 77 Graphics were liked when showing high resolution, 85 three-dimensional, 59,70,77 and realistic 59,74,75,86 ; having a cartoon look 86 ; colorful graphics 75 ; showing real movement 82 ; or animation in the background. 75 In general, adolescents highly valued the integration of music and sounds.…”

“…75 In general, adolescents highly valued the integration of music and sounds. 64 Well-liked types of music and sounds were ''spooky sounds,'' 68 60 Not well-liked types of music and sounds were a soundtrack, 74,77 songs that did not change, 84,87 and clicking sounds. 73 Language was mentioned as a feature that should not be inappropriate, 77 and not too simplistic.…”