Ludic Engagement and Immersion as a Generic Paradigm for Human-Computer Interaction Design

Abstract

Ludic systems are interactive media productions typically generalised under the heading of computer games, but actually integrating elements of game play, simulation or modeling, and narrative. The success of ludic systems lies in their highly effective modes of player engagement and immersion. Game play, simulation and narrative have their own respective forms of engagement and immersion that have often been overlooked in the development of models for human-computer interaction. As game systems become more ubiquitous, technical platforms will evolve to support more game-like interaction in general. This will facilitate the development of many applications having ludic engagement and immersion modes that dissolve some of the distinctions between work and play, providing the potential for alleviating tedium in many computer-based work tasks.