Implementation of a Pervasive Video Game with Mobile Sensing Features

EasyChair Preprint 13853

Abstract

This research presents the development of Kaboom, a mobile application designed to promote physical activity through a video game that leverages contextual game mechanics. This contextualization is done by incorporating geolocation and step counting as core components. The system utilizes mobile device sensors to gather environmental data, which is then stored in the cloud. Each sensor operates independently, allowing for modular adjustments without complex changes. This modularity enables the seamless addition or removal of components, facilitating a flexible user experience. A feasibility test was made to highlighted unanticipated use cases, such as the potential energy consumption from continuous geolocation requests and the importance of protecting user telemetry data. The test confirmed consistent sensor calibration across different devices with different mobile providers and hardware. Future work will focus on improving the application by addressing newly identified use cases, integrating additional environmental sensors, optimizing battery usage, perform usability tests outside of a laboratory context, and applying persuasive game design principles to encourage healthy behaviors.

Keyphrases: Mobile Sensing, Sensors, mobile devices, videogames

@booklet{EasyChair:13853,
  author    = {Claudio Rubio and Felipe Besoain},
  title     = {Implementation of a Pervasive Video Game with Mobile Sensing Features},
  howpublished = {EasyChair Preprint 13853},
  year      = {EasyChair, 2024}}