Prospect-Refuge Theory Dualisms in Role-Playing Game (RPG) Environments: Examining Critical Engagements in a Virtual City
Keywords:
prospect, refuge, dualism, gamesAbstract
Computer games are largely role-playing games (RPGs) where player-environment digital landscape agencies exist. Largely, game research focused on these game environments, leaving the theoretical underpinnings unaddressed. In this paper, Prospect-Refuge Theory dualistic concepts were used to examine critical player-avatar behavior. Using Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (GTA) as a pars pro toto of RPGs, we seek to understand how dualistic elements drivers affect game pacing. Video content analysis (VCA), classification of drivers of game engagement, and formulation of a game-pacing factoring system were operationalized. The study revealed striking dynamic variation in push-and-pull influence on game pacing within the game environment.
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