Effects of reactive and strategic game mechanics in motion-based games

Motion-based games offer positive effects on physical, social, and mental health for the players and have been common during the past decade, enabled by commercial motion tracking devices. However, little is known about the impact of game mechanics on the player experience, movement, and performance in motion-based games. In this paper we present results from a study with 35 participants comparing two different game mechanics, one reactive and one strategic, for a casual motion-based game. The assumption was that a more strategic mechanic would lead to less movement but more enjoyment. However, there was no significant difference in player experience, performance, or movement between the two game mechanics. In addition, a key aspect for the players' preferred game mechanics was the perceived amount of thinking the game mechanic required.