Robo Ludens: Game Design Techniques Applied in HRI Experiments

Games have been used extensively to study human behavior. Researchers in the field of human-robot interaction (HRI) are becoming more aware of the importance of designing compelling and playful games to study interrelationships among players. Despite the growing interest, the use of game design techniques in the creation of playful experiences for HRI experiments is still in its infancy and more multidisciplinary activities should be promoted to foster the convergence between game research and HRI. This workshop aims at discussing the value of using iterative game design techniques to integrate playful experiences using social robots for HRI experiments. More concretely, we want to explore tools, approaches and methods used in previous experiences for appropriate design of interactive games in HRI. Furthermore, based on previous research, a taxonomy for game design using social robots will be presented and attendees will have access to hands-on material created to facilitate the design of interactive games considering important aspects of the robotic systems to maximize the fun experience. We hope this workshop will bring to HRI researchers, game designers, roboticists, and technology enthusiasts enlightening thoughts and ideas to confront the often complicated and time-demanding process of designing compelling games for HRI experiments.