Unhibited Imaginary Play

Abstract:

This study explores the under-researched potential of procedurally generated, pseudorandom level design combined with expressive hand gestures in Extended Reality (XR) gameplay, where virtual assets are anchored to the player’s hand as a fixed controller. The research investigates whether this approach can create dynamic, spontaneous, and emotionally resonant experiences that evoke nostalgia and introspection. Specifically, it examines how hand-based interactions compare to traditional controller inputs in shaping emotional responses, as well as the impact of real-world, scanned environments versus fictional game worlds on player immersion and exploration.

To explore these questions, the study developed Skyhound, an XR game built in Unity 6 using the Oculus SDK and Meta Quest 3, which immerses players in experimental setups incorporating scene understanding based on pre-scanned environments and hand gesture inputs. Preliminary findings suggest that expressive hand gestures paired with procedurally generated assets enhance player agency and spontaneity, while unstructured movement fosters introspection and nostalgia compared to conventional controller inputs. This integration also strengthens the sense of presence and personal connection within the digital space. Ultimately, the research aims to deepen our understanding of XR gameplay and its potential to rekindle the imaginative spontaneity of childhood in adult players.