sustainable gaming

Final interface

2008-10-20T10:27:00.001+13:00

Here is the final iteration of the Flash interface from our game. The map obviously does not work without mscape GPS coordinates coming in so I've rigged it up so you can scan whenever you want.

The Videos Up.

2008-10-20T08:58:00.002+13:00

Thanks to Craig the video is successfully up.

Website is up.

2008-10-19T21:11:00.000+13:00

clickhere

Final meeting time.

2008-10-19T19:56:00.000+13:00

We will meet tomorrow at 8:30 to work out what to say for the presentaion.

Tweakz

2008-10-19T16:28:00.001+13:00

Hey guys I've tweaked the flash file a bit to eliminate a couple of bugs and have added in some slides to the flash showing how gameplay unfolds.

What has been done today.

2008-10-18T18:34:00.001+13:00

Filmed the footage.
Refined the flash
Finished presentation
Finished website - will put the website up tonight.

Craig will edit up the footage tomorrow .

Powerpoint Visuals

2008-10-18T12:06:00.000+13:00

I now have them! We may want to change order of them though so they flow better.

Intro

Concepts/Sustainability

Gameplay

Children of the Forest

Unity

Grid

Early Developments

Technical

Powerpoint

2008-10-18T10:23:00.000+13:00

Tania and Craig finished the powerpoint yesterday but I cannot blog it as I think he has it with him and didn't put it on the temp drive with all our other stuff. It is all visuals aesthetic, so all there is left to do in terms of that is organise what videos we want to show and have them up ready and loaded with the documentation and make a plan of attack in terms of what we are saying/ talking about over the powerpoint visuals as they come up.

Progress report

2008-10-17T23:08:00.000+13:00

We are very near compleation of this game and the documentation.
So with this in mind this is what every one doing

Tania = Powerpoint
Tom = Website
Tim = tweeking game
Craig = editing of footage (which we will film tomorrow)
Beth = all round help.

So every thing look on track for Mondays hand in.

We are all meeting up tomorrow at 10 (Saturday 18th)to finnish off the project Craig and Beth have got work tomorrow but Craig says that he will edit the film on sunday and Beth is helping Tania with the presentaiion.

Sustainable Videos

2008-10-17T10:43:00.000+13:00

Here are some videos I''v done that we can use for advertisements on sustainability in general (Beth kindly did some editing on them...changed the text, speed them up and added more audio here and there)
We may not incorporate them all but all but are there if needed and/or wanted to add more sustainable aspect to the game

Progress on hot spots.

2008-10-16T16:48:00.000+13:00

Today I got all of the hot spots done having some coding problems but should be fixed by the end of tomorrow.

New meeting time

2008-10-16T16:43:00.000+13:00

As discussed we will meet tomorrow at 10.30. Hopefully we will be able to the game finished.

Brief

2008-10-16T16:37:00.000+13:00

This is what is on MediaZone for the brief, final handin

Final Presentation – The final presentation must include: 1) A 5 minute (or less) video documenting your entire project. Format – MOV file playable on the DMDN teaching station computer at high resolution. 2) A Powerpoint (or Keynote preferably) presentation that highlights the project – your concepts, methods, design strategy, testing and assessment, conclusions. This should take less than 20 minutes to run through. 3) A research document – your blogs should contain quantity and quality of posts that detail the efforts of your group, and each individual towards the group project. This final will count as the final 60% for project 3.

Final presentations are on Monday, October 20

Presentation Outline for tomorrow

2008-10-16T16:36:00.000+13:00

Here's what Tim wrote up....

Heres what we'll probably need for the powerpoint.

Purpose and reasoning for game.
Concepts.
Story outline.
Gameplay.
Intro to companies, - video and advertisements for each.
Roles.
Strategies.
Early development.
Technical aspects.

And also:

Video of iPaq usage.

The next 3 COTF adverts/posters

2008-10-16T15:11:00.000+13:00

That makes 6!!!!!!

The next 3 GRID adverts/posters

2008-10-16T12:31:00.000+13:00

We have now confirmed we are doing 6 posters per company so here is the next 3...which makes 6 yay!

unity - poster 7

2008-10-16T08:11:00.000+13:00

unity - poster 6

2008-10-16T08:09:00.000+13:00

unity - poster 5

2008-10-16T08:05:00.001+13:00

More Advertisements - GRID

2008-10-15T21:55:00.001+13:00

Advertisements - COTF

2008-10-15T21:52:00.000+13:00

Here are the advertisements I have been working on.......

And out of the night comes... an update!

2008-10-15T21:51:00.000+13:00

Ok so time for an update about where the flash interface is!

After Tom and I got the mScape GPS data updating our map in Flash we pretty much have all of the elements for a fully functioning game in!

We have the whole process of gameplay working from scanning from set locations in mScape, selling the sample, the stock market works (although there are a couple of the variables that I want to check with you guys because this will affect how long the game takes to complete), and we have a shop that you can upgrade your scanner.

What we need to do now is convert all of the vids into .swf's for Flash, and get all that other media in, like the non-movie ads, etc. Also I have a bit more code to put in so that the little pointer on the map points in the direction you're walking.

Since we're meeting up tomorrow, we should try and get all of the vids and pictures in one place so that we can chuck then into the Flash and make powerpoint presentations and hand-in vids.

Children Of The Forest Footage

2008-10-15T21:49:00.000+13:00

Don't think Craig posted this so I will...this is the footage Craig and I shot on Monday with the help of Ashlee and Craig then did the edits, a bit rough but get the general idea and will get some feedback from everyone tomorrow to see what they think

Group Meeting and Presentation

2008-10-15T17:10:00.000+13:00

I understand that you are working Tania, but frankly I am getting a little lost here, what progress check of what stuff. I have asked for feed back as to if what I was making was what you guys wanted and have gotten no feedback.
I have been at the campus two times this week for (4 hours)and feel as if my time is being wasted waiting about for something to be checked or happen.

Re Timetable

Monday = Shooting/Audio. (No time)
Tuesday = Editing, Map.(No time)
Wednesday =Stylising/Voice-overs.(No time)
Thursday = 2 3
Friday = Group put together. 4
Weekend = Presentation/website? 1

Today was Wednesday =Stylising/Voice-overs which if I was to have four video completed I needed the voice overs some time back and they were to be done today but as there are no set times it means me guessing as to what time to get there. I gather that you are all busy but I want fix times for meet ups no more mucking about.

On Monday we are presenting to HP, they are a professional company and I do not want to get up there and look like a bunch of losers. I will be posting this on the blog for those who don't open or read emails.

This is not a personal attack on any one, but a reminder that we will be in front of Professionals.

unity - poster 4

2008-10-15T12:42:00.000+13:00

unity - poster 3

2008-10-15T12:41:00.000+13:00

Unity inc -four

2008-10-15T10:39:00.000+13:00

Came in for the meet up at 9 .30am(I will hang around till 12 then will be off home), but no one was here to go over the video and bill boards.
I see no time has been set so if there is a group working session tomorrow please email as to what time.

Map Works

2008-10-14T14:00:00.000+13:00

After 2 weeks of trail and error me and Tim final got the map to work. I am now working on get the hot spots in to the game. Will have this done by Thursday.

2008-10-14T13:47:00.001+13:00

Map works :)

2008-10-13T17:07:00.001+13:00

Hey guys, have been doing a bit of work on the flash. The stock market is a bit more dynamic now, selling samples to the companies increase their power, so we can use these as the triggers for the videos and whatnot. I'll be in tomorrow to do the map.

Video - Children of the forest

2008-10-13T09:50:00.000+13:00

Because I wanted to keep busy I came in and made this as a maybe video. I couldn't find the logo but it can be added. I left as it didn't seem that I was needed today or that there was anything that I could help with.

unity - poster 2

2008-10-11T11:39:00.000+13:00

Unity Inc - three

2008-10-09T13:28:00.000+13:00

unity - poster 1

2008-10-09T11:14:00.000+13:00

I have made two, trying to keep to the style of 70's

Unity Inc - two

2008-10-08T10:22:00.000+13:00

Using the same car mixing it about to create another video, trying to get another done.

Do do list...

2008-10-06T20:58:00.000+13:00

Must

Videos x12 2
Working map 1
Hotspots x24 3
Advertisement x9 2
Upgrade scanner code 4
Well Planned Presentation 1

Should

Website.

Could

Suggestive pictures

Want

Videos x24

Red = order to be done

Timetable

Monday = Shooting/Audio.
Tuesday = Editing, Map.
Wednesday =Stylising/Voice-overs.
Thursday = 2 3
Friday = Group put together. 4
Weekend = Presentation/website? 1

Flash testing

2008-10-02T11:25:00.000+13:00

Summary for Beta

2008-10-02T10:22:00.000+13:00

Unity video

2008-10-02T10:04:00.000+13:00

15th Oct Change the sound file

Here is the first Unity Inc video(a lot faster this time).

Where to from here.........???

2008-10-02T09:39:00.000+13:00

Tom and Tim are having a few problems with making map coordinates that they are trying to figure out, mainly because the coordinates are inaccurate and are slightly off what they should be, they will try to fix this as soon as possible.
Craig and Tania are having problems displaying an increasing of intensity in the videos due to the screen size restrictions and minimal sound/audio that the user will hear.
Beth has discovered that through the videos, the idea of selling and buying to the companies is not being advertised and the message is not coming across in these videos, so are thinking of alternative ways to show this, possibly through separate adverts and/or still images.

Footage

2008-10-02T09:30:00.000+13:00

Monday Craig and I did all of the raw footage for Grid, using the high def camera and some props in the photo room we did slow motion of a mallet smashing various items. Unfortunately we did it twice because we didn't get how to film it during the buffering mode! Now we just need to edit. Craig will post on further progress soon. Beth is doing Unity Inc, so after this need to work on Children of the Forest.

BAM!

2008-10-02T08:12:00.000+13:00

I suppose I've been neglecting this blog a little bit lately, but for pretty much the whole project I've been working on our flash interface.

Our game is going to be displayed solely through flash, map, interface, everything. I think this is the best approach for us due to the limiting nature of the Mscape software. Working in flash has been pretty easy so far, with only porting the GPS from Mscape to flash giving me troubles.

The interface is currently in a very workable state, about 70% of the core elements are in although a lot of it is behind the scenes coding which won't become active till we have the map working. Also I need to do a bit of animation work to make the interface a bit slicker; some quick fades between menus would probably do the trick.

Unity video

2008-10-02T07:38:00.000+13:00

I was given the task of making up a theme video for unity on Tuesday. Been working on a few ideas that could be used. One thing that is lacking in the sound files from my point is a message for the user to want to sell to them.

I have taken photo and back drop using after effects and slice up some raw video.

When we are meeting up ...

2008-09-30T10:55:00.000+13:00

Ok group this is the times we are meeting up.

11.00 = Wednesday.
9.00 = Thursday.

We should aim to have a start of a working game by Thursdays for beta presentation.

thingking of things to work on

2008-09-29T11:03:00.000+13:00

looking for things to help out with, I made up the following items to use or not to use.

Playing on what was said in the last meeting that we may base the interface on the hexagon. Above is an idea for the menu icons and below is an idea for the trim for the main interface.

Tom and Tims Update

2008-09-28T17:34:00.000+13:00

This weekend Tim and I got the interface into mscaprs. Tim has also got some actionscript working to track various stats like profits, elements and a scanner working. I have got the map tracking the position of the player and helped Tim with some troubleshooting. it looks line we will be well on track for beta hand in on Thursday.

Below some pictures of testing in mscapers as well as tims working.

Sounds

2008-09-25T09:12:00.000+12:00

I have be able to source a collection of sounds for the project, thanks to Jeff for the use of the project. If any one requires them I have a copy and have also given a copy to Tom in case I am not about or you need them over the weekend.

I am not sure what else is needed for the project but there is only 6 days till the beta test.

Question is are we having any group work session between Monday and the beta test day?
If so please let me know which day or evening.(I have no weekend time available)

Maps changed road colour

2008-09-21T08:26:00.000+12:00

Map up loaded at 25 percent of map size

Storyboard

2008-09-20T11:29:00.000+12:00

GRID
Market Dominance, sabotage other companies
“Dominating the competition since 1833”

1. Slow motion, big hammer smashes little rock to pieces. Voice over “Dominating the competition since 1833”

2. Hammer hitting a leaf which turns to liquid gold(actually gold paint). Voice over “Dominating the competition since 1833”

3.Mallet squashing car and/or child (short shots between the two, which one will the mallet hit?). Voice over “Dominating the competition since 1833”

4. A mini model of the city being destroyed by something major (lava, bomb, fireworks, pollution, fire). Voice over “Dominating the competition since 1833”

UNITY Inc.
Neutral, pleasing the people while still making profit, like fuel for cars
“Unity, serious fun”

1.Slot car set, changes shots from behind car, to car driving etc, different angles. Voice over “Unity, serious fun”

2. Similar as 1, but different shots and angles.

3.The car races around the track, cutting between footage of the slot car and footage of the driver from 1st person view. As the car goes around bend it reveals the company slogan “Unity – serious fun”. The camera tracks the car but on the last shot remains still on he corner to heighten the perception of the slot car speeding off.

4. Essentially the same ad but switching between footage of a race car and someone in Craig’s car pretending to be a race car driver.

Children Of the Forest (COtF)
Greenies, all about helping the environment
“COtF, forest children that were born in the forest that care for the forest”

1.Leaf falling from tree; show person standing below tree, leaf lightly lands in cupped hands then leaf blows away. Voice over “COtF, forest children that were born in the forest that care for the forest”

2.”From the Earth to your car”. Leaf floats down river, picked up by a hand, scrunched up in hand turns into a glob rotating in the palm of his hand. As it rotates the company logo and slogan orbit the globe as text.

3.’ “COtF, are forest children that care for the forest”. Do you care?”. Dirty footsteps/feet slowly walking through the forest. Cuts to a person sitting in ‘forest child’ like clothes with their back to us. The shot also shows a clothed, unknown person lying face down in the dirt.
4. As the world goes around us it sends itself into a craze (shots of Wellington, including a student sitting down looking lazy) “There is only one market contributor you can rely on” – “COtF, forest children that were born in the forest that care for the forest”. The forest child walks over and helps the man lying face down in the dirt up.

Jobs for next monday.

2008-09-20T10:25:00.000+12:00

Tim and Tom :

Get flash interface into mscapers
Learn map making software.

Tania and Craig :-

Storybord

Beth:-

Help Tania and Craig with storyboard
Change map

Our meeting is at 10:30 on Saturday.

Initial interface experiments

2008-09-18T11:42:00.001+12:00

The Periodic Table of Elements.

2008-09-16T20:26:00.000+12:00

The Periodic Table of Elements (as according to Craig).

List of the Elements.(pdf)

Map of Wellington city

2008-09-16T10:31:00.000+12:00

Here is the map of Wellington city, I have tone down the colours as the group wanted from the last meeting.

The glued Map of Wellington city

2008-09-16T08:31:00.000+12:00

By thursday...

2008-09-15T12:48:00.000+12:00

by Thursday this is what we have to do...

Beth- 3 versions of maps.
Tim- working interface model.
Craig- Periodic table.
Tania- Draft storyboards.
Tom - Play with mscapers - File structure - look though http://www.mediazone.co.nz/blogs08/DMDN312/?page_id=14

Recapping project

2008-09-04T22:31:00.000+12:00

Hi all how is everything going ... I know that you are all busy working hard, but I think we need to catch up this week. Just to let you all know that I work every weekend. So I am only avaiable for meetings during the week, but still require a little notice for when and were. At this stage I am ok most days but not 9th Sep (Tuesday afternoon) as I have a doc appoinment.

Current stage of map

2008-08-28T18:26:00.000+12:00

Project 3 update on map

2008-08-25T10:26:00.000+12:00

So whileI am knocking my head over project 2, I have carried on with making a large map. By Screen capturing the map from google maps. I have tried to create a map that is big, this is my current task.

Another map

2008-08-14T11:06:00.000+12:00

2008-08-14T10:15:00.000+12:00

An example of what the Missing Ingredient online puzzle may look like.

2008-08-14T09:55:00.000+12:00

Overview

2008-08-14T08:38:00.000+12:00

DMDN 312 – Interaction Design
Serious Gaming
The Missing Ingredient

Story and gameplay overview

The game is set twenty years into the future, oil is scarce, fuel is expensive, and alternative fuel research is one of the largest industries.

The player assumes the role of an independent researcher who has the task of scanning for mineral samples in the Wellington region and selling these on to any of three organizations.

Unity Incorporated.
Unity is a large scale global fuel company whose main objective is to make a profit to satisfy their shareholders. They attempt to generate large profits by being at the forefront of alternative fuel retail.

GRID.
GRID is a large international conglomerate whose goal is complete market dominance. They will do anything necessary to make a profit and have no concern whatsoever for human rights, sustainability or the environment. They have been known to sabotage other companies in order to boost their dominance over the market.

Children of the Forest.
The Children of the Forest (CotF) are an environmentalist group who are much more interested in the research of alternative fuel, rather than the selling of it. They aim to develop cutting edge fuels with the lowest emissions possible, even at the cost of performance or economy.

The game is divided into twenty minute modules or episodes. These modules can be played at any time and can be played in succession.

The game involves the player exploring Wellington, using their iPaq as radar to locate areas where they are able to find a mineral sample to scan. Once the player has located a sample they wish to scan, they walk to the location and activate the scanning function on their iPaq and a scan is performed. If successful, they then choose what they would like to do with the sample; either sell it to one of the companies or keep it to themselves for their own personal research.

The three organizations are constantly in competition with each other and this will be reflected on a share market style graph, which is updated after each module. They will naturally fluctuate without any input from the player, but continual sending of samples to one particular organization will tend to give one company dominance over the rest.

As the player is searching for minerals to scan, they will be bombarded by ads from the various organizations, attempting to persuade the player to contribute to their cause – Unity will tend to offer larger payouts, CotF will try to convince the player to contribute to them for the good of the planet, and GRID may offer to sabotage other companies. The player must make their own choices as to who to support based on their moral standing, or simply by looking at who is dominating the share market and is able to offer the biggest pay-out.

They money which is received from selling samples to the organizations is used to upgrade the player’s iPaq.

Increase Radar Range
This increases the distance at which a possible location for a mineral sample is located, allowing for greater efficiency in the search for samples.

Increase Radar Sensitivity
This upgrade allows the player to scan deeper underground, effectively increasing the number of samples they are able to find.

Increase Scanning Spectrum
This allows the iPaq to detect new, rare types of mineral samples. These rare samples can be sold for a higher price and are essential if the player wishes to develop their own alternative fuel.

The player may also choose to retain the samples for their own research purposes. If the player does not send the sample back to an organization, they can use it in an online interactive game which involves them finding a certain number and combination of sample types to develop their own super fuel. Developing this super fuel is the underlying objective of the game, but is only achievable once the player has sold enough samples to afford the ‘Increase Scanning Spectrum’ upgrade in order to find the rarer material samples.

Map

2008-08-14T01:39:00.000+12:00

Here is the map i made with flash.

Hope this is all right ??

312 Interactive Design Audience Test Questions

2008-08-13T20:44:00.000+12:00

Well I got round to it. . . . . . . . Taking Tubs email I went over what she wrote up and added my bit to it.

--------------

312 Interactive Design Audience Test Questions

This document has been created for the collection of information in helping a group of students; know as Revelation Inc gain knowledge related to what and who play games. If you are willing to answer the following question please circle, highlight, bold or write your answer below.

Are you Male or Female?
Male Female

What group would you belong to?
1 to 19 20 to 30 31 to 40 41 to 50 51 to 60

Please circle what your main occupation is?
Student Education Labour Retail Office

Do you play games?
Yes No

If you play games, how many times a day would you play games?
One Two to three Four or more

How long would you play games if you play every day?
10 minutes 20 minutes 30 minutes One hour or more

If you play games, how many times a week do you play games?
One Two to three Four or more

How long would you play games if you play games one or more times a week?
30 minutes One hour Two hour Three hours or more

If you were able to set the length of a game, how long would you want the game to be?
10 minutes 20 minutes 30 minutes One hour or more

What time of the day do you usually play a game?
Morning Afternoon Evening Midnight

Do you have set breaks?
Yes No

How long do you usually take breaks for during your day?
10 minutes 20 minutes 30 minutes One hour or more

When you have breaks or time out during the morning do you?
Eat Walk Chat with friends or family Play games

When you have breaks or time out during the afternoon do you?
Eat Walk Chat with friends or family Play games

When you have breaks or time out during the evening do you?
Eat Walk Chat with friends or family Play games

Would you be interested in playing a game during your day time breaks?
Yes No

How long does it take you to get bored of a game?
10 minutes 20 minutes 30 minutes One hour or more

What sort of games do you enjoy playing?
Puzzles Role play educational Shoot up Other

If you circled other what would that be?

Would you like a game where you had to walk places to discover more?
Yes No

Do you prefer fiction or non-fiction?
Fiction non-fiction

Do you like games where you get to make choices, evolving the game through your decisions?

Are you getting frustrated with rising fuel costs?

Are you doing “your part” to help save the environment?

Do you think you would play a game that involved these issues? If so which?

Would you play a game that was educational?

Would you play a game if it was not completely believable?

Do you enjoy games with a narrative/plot? If so like what?

What colours and symbols would you associate with evil?

What colours and symbols would you associate with good?

What colours and symbols would you associate with neutral/on the fence?

Do you prefer a game where the objective is known or unknown?

Do you prefer to dig around and discover information or have it told to you?

Do you like games simple or complicated?

Do you like to be challenged?

How do you think you could make a GPS based game interesting and captivating?

What style of game do you like (in terms of graphics)?

Text for Map

2008-08-12T10:26:00.001+12:00

Storyboard

1. Turn on Ipaq

2. Bombarded with companies advertisements

3. Receive first call, explaining you need to help find missing ingredient

4. Player moves toward first location

5. Continues to receive advertisements

6. Player arrives at location

7. Scans minerals, searching for missing ingredient

8. Calls come in from 3 different companies, attempting to persuade player to give them ingredient

9. Player makes a decision

10. Advertisement for that company becomes more dominant and persuasive

11. End of episode one

Test Questions

2008-08-12T10:26:00.000+12:00

312 Interactive Design Audience Test Questions
(18-25 years)

How old are you?

What is your occupation?

Do you play games?

What would be your ideal length of game?

What time of the day do you usually play a game?

How long do you usually take breaks for during your day?

Would you enjoy playing a game during those breaks?

How long does it take you to get bored of a game?

What sort of games do you enjoy playing?

Would you like a game where you had to walk places to discover more?

Do you prefer fiction or non-fiction?

Do you like games where you get to make choices, evolving the game through your decisions?

Are you getting frustrated with rising fuel costs?

Are you doing “your part” to help save the environment?

Do you think you would play a game that involved these issues? If so which?

Would you play a game that was educational?

Would you play a game if it was not completely believable?

Do you enjoy games with a narrative/plot? If so like what?

What colours and symbols would you associate with evil?

What colours and symbols would you associate with good?

What colours and symbols would you associates with neutral/on the fence?

Do you prefer a game where the objective is known or unknown?

Do you prefer to dig around and discover information or have it told to you?

Do you like games simple or complicated?

Do you like to be challenged?

How do you think you could make a GPS based game interesting and captivating?

What style of game do you like (in terms of graphics)?

Logos

2008-08-11T13:38:00.000+12:00

What do we all think? Any ideas for names would be appreciated :D

A day in the life...

2008-08-10T16:39:00.000+12:00

The pdf is down loadable from my blog.

www.itsthefoxtrot.com

Click on the #312 category on the right.

iPaq in action...

2008-08-07T17:42:00.001+12:00

Hot model.

Jobs Jobs and more jobs.

2008-08-07T12:00:00.000+12:00

here is the jobs for the game.

Beth: Design map

Tim: PDA images, logo design

Craig: Take pictures, scenario

Tom: Flash map/storyboard

Tania: Take pictures, quote bubble thingys

Wellington large size maps

2008-08-07T10:47:00.000+12:00

Wellington Maps

2008-08-06T23:08:00.000+12:00

From the meeting today, I have trimmed and edit three maps of Wellington CBD, I will bring the files tomorrow to hand over to Tom for the next part. We still need some place holder images, video and sounds to use as hot spots etc. We also need to think of the style we want to use.

Target Group

2008-07-31T11:45:00.000+12:00

Hey guys just had a thought......
As our target group audience is 25 - 30 years and potentially aimed at indoor/office type workers, I thought if we started writing up a list of questions etc then I can email on to my sister who is in that age gap and works in an office who can then pass onto her colleagues and friends. Could just be a nice easy way to get the ball rolling on user research and feedback.
Thoughts....

Google maps

2008-07-30T20:08:00.000+12:00

Screen prints of moving from a world view to a street view. I have these files if required for the third project presenation.

Mediascapes

2008-07-28T10:03:00.000+12:00

A place is a place. A mediascape is an experience.
Grab your GPS and get out of the car. Look at it. It still knows where you are, right? Walk to the end of the parking lot. When you get there — instead of Turn left or Turn right — you'll discover a whole new dimension to reality.
Mediascapes are rich in interactivity — full of sound and music, images and text, videos and animation, narrative and dialog, all embedded in the space where you’re standing.

Good site for some interfaces/mediascapes to look at:
http://www.mscapers.com/what-is-a-mediascape

HP iPaq h6310 / h6315 / h6350 CHARACTERISTICS

2008-07-28T10:01:00.000+12:00

HP iPaq h6310 / h6315 / h6350 CHARACTERISTICS
General
Network
GSM900 / GSM1800 / GSM1900
Introduced
2004 Q4
Status
Available
Form factor
Block
Antenna
External
SAR Value
0.5 W/Kg
Size
Weight
190 g (including battery)
Dimensions
138 x 75 x 21 mm
Display
Type
Graphical
Colours
TFT color with LED backlight, 64
Size
320 x 240 pixels
Memory
Memory - SDRAM 64-MB (55-MB user accessible) - ROM 64-MB - Up to 20-MB iPAQ File Store - Support 1-bit SDIO and SD/MMC type memory standard
Ringtones
Polyphonic
Yes
Networking
GPRS
Yes, Class B GPRS Multi slot Class 10
Modem
Yes
USB
Yes
WAP
Yes
Browser
Yes, HTML
Infrared
Yes
Features
SMS
Send / Receive
Camera
Yes, VGA,640 x 480 pixel
Java
Yes
Games
Yes: Solitaire, Jawbreaker
Clock
Yes
Alarm
Yes
Calculator
Yes
To-Do List
Yes
Voice Memo
Yes
Handsfree
Yes
Headset Jack
Yes
- Touch Screen with handwriting recognition- Integrated microphone, receiver, speaker and one 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack, MP3 stereo - Processor Texas Instruments OMAPâ„¢ 1510 - MicrosoftÂ® Windows Mobileâ„¢ 2003 software for Pocket PC â€“ Phone Edition - Outlook, Word, Excel and Internet Explorer for Pocket PC- Windows Media Player 9 (MP3, audio and video streaming- Inbox (with Spell Checker for email), Microsoft Reader (eBooks), - File Explorer, Pictures, Terminal Services Client, VPN Client, - Infrared Beaming, Align Screen, Volume control, ClearType Tuner (except for Asian languages)- Outlook 2002- Microsoft ActiveSync 3.7.1 (Desktop device synchronization), - Microsoft Reader eBooks- 26 alpha-numeric keys with 2 application buttons, and send/end buttons - Bluetooth supported profiles: Headset, Handsfree, Dial-Up Networking, File Transfer, Object Exchange, Object Push, Basic Printer, LAN Access, Hard Cable Replacement, Personal Area Network, Serial Port
Standard Battery
Type
Li-Ion

Interface research

2008-07-28T10:00:00.000+12:00

Just a start....

Purposiveness:
Goals: The game has a goal---everything is shaped toward accomplishing something. This gives the experience a purpose and helps place the incidents along a timeline or path, which also aids memory of those incidents. Challenges: On the way to achieving the goal, the gamer faces a series of challenges. Each surmounted challenge tells the gamer that progress is being made toward the completion point (that is, accomplishing the goal).
Navigation:
Reversibility: Navigation is almost always reversible. Entering a room through a doorway means that you can exit the room using it as well. This lets the gamer know that exploration is (usually) harmless and is therefore encouraged, since any navigation act can be undone simply and naturally. Immediacy: Navigation has immediacy and consistency. It breaks the suspension of disbelief to have to reach offscreen (that is, out of the world) to navigate. Mystery: Not all of the space is revealed at once. Gamers have to travel around to see new things. Of course, once a thing or a place is seen a few times it might be reachable much more easily by other means. Reality: Every movement takes a certain amount of time regardless of how fast the computation could actually occur. This increases the sense of objects being moved, or distance being covered. Timing is an important reality cue.

http://www.cs.indiana.edu/~rawlins/website/interface/game.html

An interface defines the communication boundary between two entities, such as a piece of software, a hardware device, or a user. It generally refers to an abstraction that an entity provides of itself to the outside. This separates the methods of external communication from internal operation, and allows it to be internally modified without affecting the way outside entities interact with it, as well as provide multiple abstractions of itself. It may also provide a means of translation between entities which do not speak the same language, such as between a human and a computer. Because interfaces are a form of indirection, some additional overhead is incurred versus direct communication.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interface_(computer_science)

User Experience Design Explained
One way to explain User Experience Design is to contrast it to Usability.
Usability is about the "ability to use" something. The aim for a usable product is to make it easy to use. A product has a high level of usability when:
It requires less mental effort to use.
The frequency of mistakes using it is less, or the mistakes are less disastrous.
It is more powerful, where "more powerful" means that it can be used to do more or do it faster.
It is more learnable, that is, when a person can figure it out quicker.
User-experience is not like usability - it is about "feelings." The aim here is to create happiness. You want people to feel happy before, during and after they have used your product. To do that you need to take all kinds of things into consideration. Things like:
Environment
Colors moods
Smell
Touch
Audio feedback
Visual feedback
Trust
Branding
Show-off effect
Usefulness
Practicality
Coexistence
Emotional effect
Etc...
This is much much much harder to achieve. None of these things can be accurately analyzed. It is a touchy feeling kind of thing. But you can evaluate the results of your effort. You know you have good UX when people describe their feelings about the product.

http://www.usernomics.com/user-experience-consulting.html

Interfaces?

2008-07-28T09:55:00.000+12:00

Php and more Mscapers

2008-07-27T20:46:00.000+12:00

Ok today I had a look at some Php as of yet I have not found anything that would be useful. However had another look at Mscapers and having huge success in working with triggering menus. the only thing I am having problem with is the get the actual map working but I will ask Kah about this tomorrow.

below a video of a test menu

Mscapers

2008-07-26T16:59:00.000+12:00

Today I had a look at the mscapers software today.

Fist off from my initially experience I found out that Mscapers is a quite easy to code for. Already I have found out how to trigger events. I experimented with images audio and movies. Tomorrow i hope to get in to some more Mscapers and some php.

Notes for planning

2008-07-26T16:24:00.002+12:00

This IPaq game was designed specifically to improve the user state of mind by allow them to play a game that does not relate to the office work. The user will play for short periods of time, but while playing they will be exposed to their impact of their effect on their environment.

The operating environment will be access through the use of an IPaq or a devise that is equivalent to an IPaq. Their will also be the requirement for an online connect via the IPaq or computer.

What will be the must have, that we want to build into this game?

So that the target user can use the content in ordinary operating conditions.
The content must be for rated as general-purpose content.

Points to think about for target user:

We may have to look into whether this game will have assistive technologies. In that could people with disabilities be able to use this game or will this be purely for able body people. To include people with disabilities we will need to look into the methods that would be required for them to operate the within the game environment and what they require that will enable them to receive and input communication.

Have we looked at what would create limitations of game use?

Can this game be used, if the user could not see, hear, move, or speak?
What other things could prevent use, like what not being able to perceive,
read, or process some types of information easily or at all.
Maybe the user will not be able to use a keyboard or pointing device,
because they have no hands.

Target Group

2008-07-26T16:24:00.001+12:00

This is my first go at looking into the target user.

The group chose at the last meeting to change the target person aged from 18 years or older.
The target group is now a person who is aged 25 to 30 years of age.
At the time it was said that this person may work in an office environment and that the company could be a stakeholder.

2006 Census

I was not sure how much detail we want for the user at this stage. We may have to come up with a way to get a measuring process that will give us more information.

Are your target customers male or female?
Where do they live?
Is geography a limiting factor for any reason?
What do they do for a living?
How much money do they make?
etc...etc etc...etc etc...etc etc...etc etc...etc

So doing a rough read this is what I have come up with so far.

The target user:

Currently live in the wellington region.
(Wellington has the highest median income for New Zealand.)
The median annual income for this target group in the 2006 census was $28,000.
Current income ranges from $10, 0000 to $35, 0000 thousand dollars a year.
Work in the central Wellington
Currently employed for 40 hours or more a week.

Revelation Inc Work planner

2008-07-22T19:43:00.000+12:00

Hi all I have created html work planner, that I was emailed the other day. This can be changed quickly and I hope this will help keep us on track with the workload. This is a pc program.

Revelation Inc work plan

>>>>

Final game proposal.

2008-07-22T05:10:00.000+12:00

Here is the Final Proposal.

http://www.tomrevill.net/files/DMDN312_P1Proposal.pdf

Enjoy.

Presentation

2008-07-21T15:42:00.000+12:00

From our group presentation today I've thought about the following points.

Future presentations should definitely not contain so much written material. The PDF is fine as a method of handing in a lot of information, but it not an effective way of presenting information to people.

What is our target audience? What is the reward they get for playing our game?

What will keep them captivated by the game?

The level of alternative fuel research we have done should be aimed at the target audience.
If we are going to use some elements of chemistry in our game it must be such that the target audience would understand. e.g if 16 years old are going to use this the chemistry in the game must be of their level, and would others that are older still know the chemistry taught at that level?

What is the relationship between the user and the oppositions protagonist?

Ian Bogost & Jane McGonigal

2008-07-20T23:00:00.000+12:00

Ian Bogost

Horde of Directors

A game about corporate connectedness. Created with T. Michael Keesey.

The game puts the player in the role of an activist trying to advance a social agenda in the complex world of interrelated corporate and government interests. By creating simplified experience of corporate interconnectedness, the game embodies the challenges of overcoming corporate and government nepotism in the name of social causes.

Players choose a real corporation or organization to influence, and set to work having heated arguments with those organization's actual board directors. But quickly, players learn that every board director leads to a whole new network of cohorts, who sit on other influential corporate boards and government organizations. The simple, sometimes repetitive game play gives the player a first-hand experience of the Sisyphusian struggle to be heard. 1

Cruel 2 B Kind

A big public game of benevolent assassination. Created with Jane McGonigal.

At the beginning of the game, you and a partner-in-crime are assigned a secret weapon. To onlookers, it will seem like a random act of kindness. But to a select group of other players, the seemingly benevolent gesture is a deadly maneuver that will bring them to their knees.

Some players will be slain by a serenade. Others will be killed by a compliment. You and your partner might be taken down by an innocent group cheer.

You will be given no information about your targets. No name, no photo, nothing but the guarantee that they will remain within the outdoor game boundaries during the designated playing time. Anyone you encounter could be your target. The only way to find out is to attack them with your secret weapon. 2

Jane McGonigal

World Without Oil

World Without Oil (WWO) is an alternate reality game (ARG) created to call attention to, spark dialogue about, plan for and engineer solutions to a possible near-future global oil shortage, post peak oil. World Without Oil combined elements of an alternate reality game with those of a serious game. The game sketched out the overarching conditions of a realistic oil shock, then called upon players to imagine and document their lives under those conditions. Compelling player stories and ideas were incorporated into the official narrative, posted daily. Players could choose to post their stories as videos, images or blog entries, or to phone or email them to the WWO game masters. The game's central site linked to all the player material, and the game's characters documented their own lives, and commented on player stories, on a community blog and individual blogs, plus via IM, chat, Twitter and other media.

The World Without Oil game asked players to imagine a world reeling from a sudden oil shortage, describe how the crisis is unfolding where they live, and work together on simple and practical ways to adapt. By playing it out in a serious way, the game aimed to apply collective intelligence and imagination to the problem in advance, and create a record that has value for educators, policymakers, and the common people to help anticipate the future and prevent its worst outcomes. 3

I Love Bees

I Love Bees (also known as ilovebees or ILB for short) was an alternate reality game (ARG) that served as both a real-world experience and viral marketing campaign for the release of developer Bungie's 2004 video game Halo 2.

The game was first advertised by a subliminal message in a Halo 2 trailer; players who investigated the titular website discovered that the pages appeared to be hacked by a mysterious intelligence. As players solved puzzles, audio logs were posted to the ilovebees.com site which gradually revealed more of the fictional back-story, involving a marooned artificial intelligence stranded on Earth and its attempts to put itself back together.

I Love Bees began when jars of honey were received in the mail by people who had previously participated in alternate reality games. The jars contained letters leading to the I Love Bees website and a countdown.[3] At around the same time, an advertisement for Halo 2 flashed a link to ilovebees.com, ostensibly a hacked site related to beekeeping.

The gameplay of I Love Bees tasked players around the world to work together to solve problems, with little or no direction or guidance.[5] For example, the game presented players with 210 pairs of global positioning system coordinates and time codes, with no indications to what the locations referred to. 4

References:

1. http://www.bogost.com/games/horde_of_directors.shtml
2. http://www.bogost.com/games/cruel_2_b_kind.shtml
3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Without_Oil
4. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Love_Bees

2008-07-20T16:52:00.001+12:00

Updated gameplay text:

We have many different gameplay elements ranging between a number of different mediums.

GPS based location gameplay:
The GPS is used to trigger events from the location of the player, but a hierarchy is also included, so it is not just the location of the player which determines the event, but also the number of previous events which have occurred. This creates a non-linear game, which allows the user to immersive themselves in the game without the rigidness of pre determined events at predetermined locations.

PDA mini-games:
The iPaq will be used to "scan" objects, to artificially investigate properties of things in order to gain more information about them, and further the story. The player will have to complete mini-games such as deciphering a code or correctly aligning an on-screen element to successfully "scan" an object.

Online games:
Periodically the player will have to access a website to further analyze a mineral sample, this will involve playing a Flash game in a web browser.

Meta-games:
The player will encounter NPCs along their journey which they must investigate through social networking sites to uncover background information about the NPC.

2008-07-20T16:41:00.001+12:00

I've written up a bit of a concept storyline which we are going to combine with the ideas Tom had originally to create our narrative.

The game begins when the player is contacted by Dr. Derek Oak, a scientist from the Experimental Fuel Research Organization - EFRO.

Dr Oak explains that they have detected traces of a mineral somewhere in Wellington with a chemical compound which they believe is the missing ingredient to producing a new super fuel.

As the only person in the area with a compatible iPaq, Dr Oak asks if you will help him collect mineral samples from around Wellington. Dr Oak then initiates the transfer of the software necessary to use the iPaq to scan for minerals.

The player will then receive a series of GPS co-ordinates of possible mineral locations. The player will then go to the location and use the iPaq's camera to scan areas for minerals and then send the results back to Dr Oak for further analysis.

The player's progress soon attracts the attention of the local fuel companies wanting to obtain the research you are performing.

The player will have to avoid the petrol companies agents which are waiting at some of the locations, either by taking an alternate route, or by going to the location at a different time.

As the game progresses the player finds that some of the mineral samples are missing, someone has obviously beaten the player to the location. Through video calls the player learns of an enemy agent which is sabotaging the player's progress. The player will research the agent through social networking sites in an attempt to uncover their identity and who they are working for.

Also have outlined some of the gameplay elements we are going to include.

We will include location based gameplay elements such as using GPS co-ordinates to arrange a meeting or finding a specific mineral as well as mini-games separate from the iPaq. There will be Flash-based puzzle games online which the player must complete to analyze some minerals, as well as metagames involving the investigation of NPCs through social networking sites.

work schedule

2008-07-20T16:03:00.000+12:00

2008-07-20T15:58:00.000+12:00

Youtube links:

Timehole - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WQwBLF1jSE
Barcelona Brief - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WQwBLF1jSE
GPS The Game - -http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmj5smvs-Z0

2008-07-20T15:04:00.000+12:00

I've been working on some conceptual visualizations for our game.

Map concept. Player can scroll around the map on the iPaq and information will pop up in relevant places.

Scanning gameplay. Player is able to activate a scanner on the iPaq in certain areas, using the in-built camera to target a sample. The sample is then analyzed and the results can be sent back to one of the fuel companies for further research.

Video calling. The player will interact with NPCs through (pre-recorded) video calls.

Mscapers.

2008-07-20T14:57:00.000+12:00

These guys have done some of the production research already.

The HP iPaq can receive messages in different types of medias i.e text, video, audio etc

This example of a location based game shows how using graphical elements within the PDA can still be an effective way of creating the game.

Hollywood takes charge.

Alternative Fuels

2008-07-20T14:24:00.000+12:00

Alternative Fuels:

Conventional fuels include: fossil fuels (petroleum (oil), coal, propane, and natural gas), and nuclear materials such as uranium. Some well known alternative fuels include bio-diesel, bio-alcohol (ethanol, butanol), chemically stored electricity (batteries and fuel cells), hydrogen, non-fossil methane, non-fossil natural gas, vegetable oil and other biomass sources.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternative_fuel)

Bio-diesel refers to a non-petroleum-based diesel fuel consisting of short chain alkyl (methyl or ethyl) esters, made by transesterification of vegetable oil, which can be used (alone, or blended with conventional petrodiesel) in unmodified diesel-engine vehicles.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodiesel)

In organic chemistry, transesterification is the process of exchanging the alkoxy group of an ester compound with another alcohol.

(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transesterification)

Certain crystals, such as quartz, or even sugarcane, generate a potential difference across their faces when subjected to external pressure. This phenomenon is known as piezoelectricity, Piezoelectricity is the ability of some materials (notably crystals and certain ceramics) to generate an electric potential in response to applied mechanical stress.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piezoelectricity)

The use of electricity as an alternative fuel in our serious game is an interesting possibility, because it is readily available and generated. It could also be incorporated easily into our game play by way of scanning and detecting it with the iPaq.

Petrol station locations

2008-07-20T14:13:00.001+12:00

Petrol station locations

What I have Done.

2008-07-20T12:07:00.000+12:00

Ok this is what I did yesterday

A small paragraph on how will people find out this game?

The way in which the player will be informed about this game. Is that we will create a website that we will create a fake corporation that will be advertising there new email program. That will say that you can become a beta tester. From there you can sign up so you can download the game.

From there the player will think that they will have a legitimate email program

If the customer contacts technical support they will get an email back saying that you have been part of an attentive reality game.

And a Logic tree for gameplay.

Also thanks beth for the FAQ that looks very professional.

Sustainable/Environmental Game?

2008-07-20T09:07:00.000+12:00

The idea behind this interactive game in general is to increase the users knowledge and awareness to environmental issues and therefore to take action. The only way this can be done is by making an interesting and captivating game that will allow the user to both subconsciously and consciously learn as they are enjoying and playing. Our aim for this game is to make it as realistic as possible so that the users' actions in the game will naturally follow into their everyday life.

Transport is a big part of Wellington city and furthermore a large contributor to environmental problems, the hot topic being the continuing rise in fuel costs and the continual harm and damage these fuels are causing the earth. With our game we aim to reinforce the idea of taking the environmentally friendly way by showing the user potential results and ideas of the future, giving them the opportunity to look closer and make their own decisions from the game play they experience.
To sum up we want users to choose their own path and make their own decisions through their own learning experiences in a fun, reusable and sustainable way.

Start of the Proposal

2008-07-19T09:06:00.000+12:00

Myself, Tom and Craig drafted up the basic narrative on Friday of our proposal. Eg. the storyline, objective, gameplay etc here is what we have got so far.....

Sustainable Game

Game Narrative:

Your PDA has a technical defect, which allows you to intercept private emails from petrol station executives. These confidential emails hold information in relation to a missing ingredient for a super fuel, which will change the fuel consumption industry.

As the player you hold the key to finding a more sustainable, environmentally friendly, fueling future.

Through out the game you acquire various pieces of information, which collectively give you the knowledge to create this super fuel. What you then choose to do with this knowledge is up to you. Promoting or suppressing the information, and to which petrol company, determines the path the game takes.

Game Play:

The player begins with the PDA and gradually begins to intercept confidential emails between petrol station executives, which prompts the user to reply. This in turn sparks the communication between the executives and the player. This is the beginning of the game.

Capturing an image with the PDA and relaying it back to the one you choose to help.

Use the PDA to ‘scan’ objects, to artificially investigate properties of things in order to gain more information about them, and further the game.

GPS can also trigger events based on location.

The GPS is used to trigger events, from the location of the player, but a hierarchy is also included, so it is not just the location of the player which determines the event, but also the number of previous events which have occurred. This creates a non-linear game, which allows the user to immersive themselves in the game without the rigid ness of pre determined events at predetermined locations. Mystery and intrigue.

BP
Shell
Caltex

My job for the weekend is to write up and figure out how this relates and helps with a sustainable environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

2008-07-18T21:50:00.000+12:00

>>>>

Hi all will be at the meeting on Sunday at 2pm, Thanks for emailing me Tom. I have never done a FAQ before so here is what I think you wanted. But am not sure how indeepth you want it.

>>>>

FAQ

Q It is this simply a guided tour?
A No, this is a non-linear game that relies on the users’ to choose their journey around the city.

Q How much will this cost to use?
A Cost involved will vary depending on your current connection plan and who your provider is.

Q Do you have website support?
A Yes, but it is not monitor during off peak hours. So you may have delays in getting an answer.

Q Do you have quick answers support?
A Yes, please checkout our support area.

Q Do you have phone help?
A As this is a non-profit product, there is no phone support network provided.

Q Will I have to download or load any software?
A Yes you will.

Q Will I require any special equipment?
A Yes, to gain access you will require a HP iPaq h6965 or similar type of GPS device.

Q Is there a monthly cost involved to use the game?
A There is no monthly cost for using the game.

Q Who is the main stakeholder?
A Revelation Inc

Q How owns this game?
A Revelation Inc

Q Where is the location for this game?
A This games’ location, is Central Wellington city, Wellington, New Zealand.

Q It this game sponsor by petrol companies?
A No, this is not sponsored by any petrol companies.

Q Who is the target audience?
A The target audience is those who have access to a HP iPaq h6965 or similar type of GPS device.
Are aged 16 years of age and are able to travel to central city of Wellington.

Q What is the preferred age group to play this game?
A 16 years and older

Q Are there any give away, prizes or money to be won by playing this game?
A No

Q Is this a real?
A No

Q Where can I download the game?
A directly from the website

Q Can I make copies of the game and give it to friends?
A You can make copies of the file and give it to your friends but you are not allowed to on sell to others.

Q Do I have to pay a registration fee?
A No, you do not have to paid a registration fee, but you will have to cover the cost of your GPS connection.

Q Who is the author?
A Revelation Inc

Q What is the approved rating for this game?
A General

Proposistion

2008-07-18T12:59:00.000+12:00

sustainable gaming

Final interface

The Videos Up.

Website is up.

Final meeting time.

Tweakz

What has been done today.

Powerpoint Visuals

Powerpoint

Progress report

Sustainable Videos

Progress on hot spots.

New meeting time

Brief

Presentation Outline for tomorrow

The next 3 COTF adverts/posters

The next 3 GRID adverts/posters

unity - poster 7

unity - poster 6

unity - poster 5

Other videos we could incorporate?

More Advertisements - GRID

Advertisements - COTF

And out of the night comes... an update!

Children Of The Forest Footage

Group Meeting and Presentation

unity - poster 4

unity - poster 3

Unity inc -four

Map Works

Video - Children of the forest

unity - poster 2

Unity Inc - three

unity - poster 1

Unity Inc - two

Do do list...

Flash testing

Summary for Beta

Unity video

Where to from here.........???

Footage

BAM!

Unity video

When we are meeting up ...

thingking of things to work on

Tom and Tims Update

Sounds

Maps changed road colour

Storyboard

Jobs for next monday.

Initial interface experiments

The Periodic Table of Elements.

Map of Wellington city

The glued Map of Wellington city

By thursday...

Recapping project

Current stage of map

Project 3 update on map

Another map

Overview

Map

312 Interactive Design Audience Test Questions

Text for Map

Test Questions

Logos

A day in the life...

iPaq in action...

Jobs Jobs and more jobs.

Wellington large size maps

Wellington Maps

Target Group

Google maps

Mediascapes

HP iPaq h6310 / h6315 / h6350 CHARACTERISTICS

Interface research

Interfaces?

Php and more Mscapers

Mscapers

Notes for planning

Target Group