Experimental Evidence for Suspense as Determinant of Video Game Enjoyment
Christoph Klimmt, Albert Rizzo, Peter Vorderer, Jan Koch, Till Fischer · CyberPsychology & Behavior · 2008
Based on theoretical assumptions from film psychology and their application to video games, the hypothesis is tested that suspense is a major factor in video game enjoyment. A first-person shooter game was experimentally manipulated to create either a low level or a high level of suspense. Sixty-three participants were randomly assigned to experimental conditions; enjoyment was assessed after playing by a 10-item rating scale. Results support the assumption that suspense is a driver of video game enjoyment.