Beyond the Gamepad: HCI and Game Controller Design and Evaluation

Abstract

In recent years, there has been an increasing amount of computer game- focused HCI research, but the impact of controller-related issues on user experience remains relatively unexplored. In this chapter,we highlight the limitations of current practices with respect to designing support for both standard and innovative con- trollers in games. We proceed to explore the use of McNamara and Kirakowski’s (2006) theoretical framework of interaction in order to better design and evaluate controller usage in games. Finally, we will present the findings of a case study applying this model to the evaluation and comparison of three different game con- trol techniques: gamepad, keyboard, and force feedback steering wheel. This study highlights not only the need for greater understanding of user experience with game controllers, but also the need for parallel research of both functionality and usability in order to understand the interaction as a whole.