Revisiting an Assumption of Video Game Research

• In Event: Extended Session: Beyond Good and Evil: Cognitive, Emotional, and Behavioral Effects of Digital Games

Abstract

Advances in video game technology have been thought of as key determinants of the strength of player responses to games. Previous research on this topic has traditionally compared primitive games with advanced games, where large differences would be expected. Notably, upper limits in graphical depictions (e.g., photorealism) may lead to a pattern of diminishing returns, reducing these effects for newer, more similar games. The current paper outlines logic to support this conjecture and reports a study designed to examine the relationship between technological advancement of video games, perceptions of technological advancement, and key video game outcomes. Results suggest a diminishing returns effect of technological advancement on perceptions of technological advancement. Post-hoc analyses suggest that although technological advancement does not have a direct effect on outcomes, it does have an effect mediated by perceptions. These results are discussed with regard to their implications for game researchers and designers.
Keywords: Video Games, Graphics, Media Effects, Technological Advancement

Authors

• Eric R Novotny, University At Buffalo

• Matthew N Grizzard, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Zed Ngoh, University at Buffalo, State University of New York

• Alexandra Plante, U at Buffalo

• Julia Kristine Weiss, U at Buffalo

• Jialing Huang, U at Buffalo