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Experimental evidence for suspense as determinant of video game enjoyment
Christoph Klimmt1, Albert Rizzo, Peter Vorderer
1Department of Communication, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany. klimmt@uni-mainz.de
Abstract:
Based on theoretical assumptions from film psychology and their application to video games, the hypothesis is tested that suspense is a major factor in video game enjoyment. A first-person shooter game was experimentally manipulated to create either a low level or a high level of suspense. Sixty-three participants were randomly assigned to experimental conditions; enjoyment was assessed after playing by a 10-item rating scale. Results support the assumption that suspense is a driver of video game enjoyment.
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