Prospect-Refuge Theory Dualisms in Role-Playing Game (RPG) Environments: Examining Critical Engagements in a Virtual City

Ruben Jr. Felizarte; Nappy Navarra

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v11i37.7973

Authors

Ruben Jr. Felizarte Doctor of Philosophy in the Designed and Built Environment Student, College of Architecture, Integrated Graduate Program, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines/ Faculty, Department of Architecture, Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts, Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3084-1852
Nappy Navarra Faculty, College of Architecture – Integrated Graduate Program, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5505-0916

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v11i37.7973

Keywords:

prospect, refuge, dualism, games

Abstract

Computer games are largely role-playing games (RPGs) in which a virtual landscape player-environment agency exists. Largely, game research focused on this spatial-behavior interplay, leaving the theoretical underpinnings unaddressed. In this paper, Prospect-Refuge Theory dualistic concepts were used to examine critical player experiences. 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 game engagement drivers, and 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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