From Solo to Social: Exploring the Dynamics of Player Cooperation in a Co-located Cooperative Exergame

TL;DR

This work addresses the gap in socially engaging exergames by introducing Space Scavenger Squad, a co-located MR exergame on the ExerCube designed around three cooperation mechanics. Using a within-subjects study (N=24), it shows that closely-coupled cooperation enhances relatedness and team identification and increases exertion and performance, while differing in speed and strategy demands. The study provides design implications to balance autonomy, competition, and cognitive load, offering a actionable framework for building socially enriching exergames that also promote physical activity. Overall, the results advance understanding of how tailored cooperative mechanics can foster meaningful social interaction and motivate sustained physical engagement in exergaming contexts.

Abstract

Digital games offer rich social experiences and promote valuable skills, but they fall short in addressing physical inactivity. Exergames, which combine exercise with gameplay, have the potential to tackle this issue. However, current exergames are primarily single-player or competitive. To explore the social benefits of cooperative exergaming, we designed a custom co-located cooperative exergame that features three distinct forms of cooperation: Free (baseline), Coupled, and Concurrent. We conducted a within-participants, mixed-methods study (N = 24) to evaluate these designs and their impact on players' enjoyment, motivation, and performance. Our findings reveal that cooperative play improves social experiences. It drives increased team identification and relatedness. Furthermore, our qualitative findings support cooperative exergame play. This has design implications for creating exergames that effectively address players' exercise and social needs. Our research contributes guidance for developers and researchers who want to create more socially enriching exergame experiences.

Figures (1)

• Figure 1: The game interface with (a) clonefree's green orb, (b) flickrcoupled's blue and orange orbs, (c) cogsconcurrent's purple orbs and the HUD showing a progress bar and a score.