Sssnake: A remote multiplayer toy for children

Abstract

sssnake is a soft toy that allows multi-user play over distance as well as single users playing alone. It has a haptic interface and can connect children (especially during the COVID-19 pandemic) while avoiding the usage of screen-based media. It combines social interaction inspired from online gaming with a playful way to learn about music and instruments. We present a handcrafted prototype manufactured from e-textiles, wool and grape seeds. The sssnake prototype was evaluated in a user study with ten children aged between one and eight years. The study showed that online-connected soft toys can be an extension to traditional possibilities of socializing and play.