The invoker: Intuitive gesture mechanics for motion-based shooter RPG

Abstract

The introduction of motion controller and camera as gaming peripherals have increased the immersion of computer games today. Moving on from using conventional handheld game controllers, players can now use gestures for gameplay control. At this juncture, despite the popularity of Shooter Role Playing Games (SRPG) among developers and researchers, gesture mechanics remains limited and underdeveloped. In this paper, we have experimented with a set of simple intuitive gestures for a newly designed SRPG called The Invoker. Implemented with the Microsoft Kinect, The Invoker emphasizes on the battle experience by utilizing hand and body movements to dodge and cast spells. A selection of gesture transitions were designed to produce various skill combinations during gameplay. For further enhancement and usability, visual and audio feedback were also provided to the player when an action is performed. By qualitative user evaluation on a target RPG interest group, about 70% of the participants expressed positive feedback on the design of spell casting gestures and skill combination mechanics in the game.