FME Transactions (Jan 2019)
Design of a board game with augmented reality
Abstract
This paper presents the design process of a board game with augmented reality. The board games have remained attractive in this time of complete digitalization. The experience of hands on play has been the key feature of the board game. By introducing AR in the board games this key feature is kept together with digitalization of some elements of the gameplay. Augmented reality games provide players with a rich and potentially unlimited range of interaction possibilities. Implementation of AR creates added value to the game. We want to enhance the game experience by combining the best features from classical board games and video games. The benefits of playing board games are numerous contrary to the video games. By implementing AR, the game will draw interest of the video games players too. This paper presents an example of the design of what is known as AR Board Game, a class of table-top games that combines handheld devices (such as smart phones) with physical game pieces to create a merged physical/virtual game on the table-top. Along with that, the paper describes the process of designing a board game that incorporates AR, along with technical implementation. The design process is performed using the well-known principles (fig.1). The goal of the research is to identify the benefits for the players of introducing digital technology in the analogue world of the board games. Comparison of the user experience in the case of using just the board game and the board game with AR is conducted. For the sample under consideration were accounted board game players but also video games players. Results of the conducted comparison are presented and discussed. At the end the whole experience of designing such a product is presented along with ideas for further work.
