Abstracts Category : Other

New Retro: An Exploration of Modern Video Games With A RetroAesthetic

by Bryant David Thomas

This research paper is about the differences inexperiences video game players have when playing retro games,modern games, and recent games created using a retro aesthetic. Thedefinition of modern games using a retro aesthetic is any game madefor modern video game hardware (consoles, handhelds, and computers)that uses game design choices or visual stylings of older videogames. The paper focuses on the types of games video game playersenjoy, and the different emotions they associate with the gamesfrom different generations. A total of 17 participants took thesurvey, and a total of 6 study participants chose to beinterviewed. Both of these research methods were utilized to gain abetter understanding of how video game players experience gamesfrom different generations. The outcome of the study is a proof ofconcept experience that takes elements from across gaminggenerations and combines them into one event.The prototype isusability tested to see if video game players connect well with themultiple experiences converging together.Advisors/Committee Members: Cheatham, Dennis (Committee Chair).