King Li, Jonathan Jason C.

Monsod, Tricia Angela A.

Thesis Adviser: Dr. Ma. Mercedes T. Rodrigo

Background of StudyBackground of Study

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) Applied in medical sciences for prosthetic uses.

(Nijholt, 2008) Can we apply this technology for gaming?

Yes! Has this been done before?

Yes!

Background of StudyBackground of Study

Current researches only explored BCIs through proofs-of-concept but no actual game has been created… yet.

Progress so far…Progress so far…

Game engine has been created and is currently being perfected to create an actual BCI game.

Players need help.Affect-Sensitive

Agent

Definition of TermsDefinition of Terms

Game (Fullerton, Swain, & Hoffman, 2004) Closed Formal system Structured conflict Unequal outcome

Agent Computer System Autonomous in a Virtual Environment Achieves its Design Objectives

Research ObjectivesResearch Objectives

Two-Fold Objective:Affect-Sensitive Game Development

Using appropriate brain wave signals Plot creation

Game Agent Creation Neurofeedback Motivational Dialogue

Scope and LimitationsScope and Limitations OCZ Neural-Impulse Actuator &

Brainfingers Access Software Not for

profit

Why an Agent?Why an Agent?

Novelty of the modality Implausible incorporation of rules in a BCI-

dependent gameDifferent brain activity patterns

Using Brain SignalsUsing Brain Signals

NeurofeedbackSet a goal.

Read brain signals. Show to user his/her distance from goal. Repeat until goal is achieved.

Using Brain SignalsUsing Brain Signals

Brain Activity “Is the user relaxed or agitated?” Create a meter for it.

If the user is relaxed, the meter goes to the left. If the user is agitated, the meter goes to the right.

Now make some fancy applications…Now make some fancy applications…

Game InterfaceGame Interface

Game PlotGame Plot

School of Thought is basically a story-driven game that revolves around a titular character gifted with three powers (pyro, ghost and telekinesis) that has been kidnapped for experimentation with the goal of escaping the castle while utilizing their powers to get past obstacles.

Power IconsPower Icons

Pyro – Burns objects such as candles, locks, and torches.

Ghost – Allows the player to pass through walls.

Telekinesis – Moves heavy objects to clear a path.

Agent RoleAgent Role

Plot Narration Player Aid

Provide feedbackGive hints

“Think chaotic thoughts”, “Try doing math problems”, “Think of a calm, blue ocean”…

DemonstrationDemonstration

Questions?Questions?