Network latency in on-line gaming: An engineering or a psychological problem?

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingsChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Ongoing research attempts to find engineeringbased solutions to the problem of network latency in multiplayer computer games. However, few studies have been conducted to examine the end-users' experience of latency from a psychological perspective. The current study examines the roles of network latency and game complexity on the subjective experience of participants playing a specially designed computer game. Results suggest that participants prefer complex over simple games, regardless of the level of latency experienced. These findings suggest the possibility of a psychological solution to some of the negative effects of network latency. It is suggested that by manipulating Relational Complexity, it may be possible to maintain a satisfactory gaming experience in the presence of latency.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of CGAMES 2006 - 9th International Conference on Computer Games
Subtitle of host publicationArtificial Intelligence and Mobile Systems
EditorsBryan Duggan, Hugh McAtamney, Quasim Mehdi, Fred Mtenzi
PublisherUniversity of Wolverhampton
Pages72-76
Number of pages5
ISBN (Electronic)0954901622
Publication statusPublished - 2006
Externally publishedYes
Event9th International Conference on Computer Games: AI, Animation, Mobile, Educational and Serious Games, CGAMES 2006 - Dublin, Ireland
Duration: 22 Nov 200624 Nov 2006

Publication series

NameProceedings of CGAMES 2006 - 9th International Conference on Computer Games: Artificial Intelligence and Mobile Systems

Conference

Conference9th International Conference on Computer Games: AI, Animation, Mobile, Educational and Serious Games, CGAMES 2006
Country/TerritoryIreland
CityDublin
Period22/11/0624/11/06

Keywords

  • Latency
  • Networked Multiplayer Games
  • Playability

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