Towards an affordable alternative educational video game input device

Abstract

The authors present the prototype design results of an alternative physical educational video gaming input device. The device elicits increased physical activity from the players as compared to the compact gaming controller. Complicated and expensive alternative input devices are available, but remain unaffordable for developing countries. They propose a design that is more suitable for local manufacture in developing countries. In addition, they are concerned about the social isolation experienced by gamers. To address this, they project the gaming area onto the floor in front of players and the spectators. This is to encourage co-located collaboration and increased social interaction between players and the spectators. Four players take positions around the projected rectangular image. Angle sensors attached to each player’s elbows serve as game inputs. As an educational component, the game incorporates the graphical display of dynamic vectors. They present an overview of the educational gaming software developed, the mechanical design implemented, the advantages and limitations of their input device, together with recommendations for future development.