This report set out to dissect the current state of motivational serious games to better understand why there is a need for improvement. It was uncovered that the main distinction between specialised and commercial games in use in physiotherapy is that the former employ a form of Passive gameplay, while the latter display a more motivating Active type of gameplay. These findings were used, together with Cystic Fibrosis patient insights, to develop a framework for the design of better gameplay for physiotherapeutic serious games.
LEMONS contains six main tenets for consideration during game design: Long-term focus, Experience customisation, Mobile design, Observe limitations, Neutrality, and Simplicity. The framework was validated by designing a game which applied all its principles, and compared against an existing game to be used for the same purpose and end users. Principles presented in the framework and applied in the new game were deemed appealing in final user tests and were asked to be also implemented in the other game - a clear success.
It can be concluded that the LEMONS framework is probably first of its kind in proactively encompassing gameplay aspects in its design considerations, and a valuable tool for the creation of better motivational serious games for physiotherapy. Further work is suggested for future framework improvement. The developed game will be included and launched on national scale as part of the Fizzyo project.
Access the full report here.
