1. Goals Our goal is to provide a visual path of engagement within the physical space of the Computer Video Game Archive. If successful, patrons should be motivated to explore and learn about the evolution of concepts employed in video games over time and across genres.
2. Users
Reason for visiting:
-Video Game Research
-SAC 368 "Video Game as Culture/Form"
-COMM 488 "Special Topics in Media Effects: Video Games"
-Relaxation
-Nostalgia
-"Try before you buy"
Wants, needs, desires:
-Share gaming experiences with friends
-"Something new" based prior gaming
experiences
-Recovery of past memories and experiences
-Motivations to discover new content within the CVGA
3. Content The CVGA currently contains 1017 software titles spanning 30 platforms. This content is searchable on the Myrlin card catalog system and available in print form via a binder sitting in the archive. Patrons may also browse the physical boxes and cartridges on the shelves at the archive. Several gaming stations have been set up to allow players to experience software from previous decades across multiple platforms.
4. Context
-Evolution of concepts over time
-Iconic aesthetics and their relation to platforms
-Changes in character design over time within a genre
or franchise
-Least popular games or concepts
-Disparity between conventions and aesthetic
-Gaming as an social activity
-Discovering a genre based upon its concepts
-Serial nature of game franchises
-Addictive nature and genre specificity
-Trends in interface and interaction design