Level Design Patterns That Invoke Curiosity-Driven Exploration

Video games frequently feature 'open world' environments, designed to motivate exploration. Level design patterns are implemented invoke curiosity and guide player behavior. However, evidence of the efficacy such has remained theoretical. This study presents an empirical how level impact curiosity-driven exploration in a 3D open-world video game. 254 participants played game using between-subjects factorial design, testing 4 variables: presence or absence patterns, goal open-ended, nature alien aesthetic, assured unassured compensation. Data collection consisted in-game metrics emotion word prompts as well post-game questionnaires. Results show that heightened exploration, but this effect is influenced by explicit monetary There appear be many motivations behind exploratory behavior games, with raising expectations players. A disposition for (i.e. 'trait curiosity') was not found influence We interpret discuss conditions, individual motivations.