Research method for locative games

Abstract

This paper presents a methodology approach for locative game studies using actor-network theory (ANT) as a basis. The hypothesis proposes that the ANT could be useful because it focuses on agencies between humans and non-humans, while it provides useful categories to support the researcher in the description of an emerging phenomenon. Locative gaming offers a rich and informative experience for which the concepts of ANT can be successfully applied because it connects many human and non-human actants. In the attempt to develop a research method for locative games which uses the actor-network theory, this study provides a description and evaluation of a number of game sessions of Pokémon GO played in Copenhagen during the summer of 2017.