Authoring a serious pervasive game for reflecting upon urban spaces

Abstract

This paper investigates how pervasive games, which explore the potential of storytelling on mobile and locative media, can transfer knowledge about serious topics regarding public space. The discussion anchors on Chronica Mobilis (Barcelona 2014), a situated playing experience devoted to supporting critical thinking about contemporary cities’ issues. The authors expose the inception, interaction design, implementation and public presentation process of the mentioned artwork, as well as a qualitative analysis of the participants’ experience. They evaluate the manner in which this serious pervasive game manifests as a ludic mechanism to inform the reflection on the immigration and gentrification phenomenon.