An innovative research project at Prague’s FAMU film school, in collaboration with the Medical Faculty, is shedding light on how sound affects video game players’ immersion and physiological responses. The study, spearheaded by Tomáš Oramus from the Department of Sound Design, engages participants in a thrilling gameplay experience of Resident Evil: Village, monitoring their heart rate, breathing, and electro-dermal activity to discern the influence of sound formats like headphones, stereo speakers, and surround sound on player immersion.

Unveiling the Power of Sound in Gaming

With a focus on the horror video game Resident Evil: Village, the study meticulously observes participants playing a specific segment of the game under different sound conditions. This setup aims to isolate the impact of sound on player immersion from the game’s inherent scare factors. Preliminary results indicate a significant role of sound in enhancing game immersion, with virtual reality setups proving exceptionally immersive. Surprisingly, data shows participants’ heart rates decreased during gameplay, suggesting a deep level of focus and immersion facilitated by sound.

Methodology and Preliminary Findings

The research method involves a controlled environment where each participant experiences the same game segment, ensuring consistency in gameplay while varying the sound formats. This approach allows for a clear analysis of sound’s effect on physiological responses. Initial findings challenge the expected rise in heart rates during horror games, instead revealing a decrease, highlighting the potential of sound to enhance focus and immersion in gaming.

Implications for Future Gaming Experiences

The study’s insights into how different sound formats affect gamer immersion and physiological responses open new avenues for creating more engaging and immersive gaming experiences. By understanding the nuanced role of sound in gaming, developers can tailor soundscapes to enhance player immersion and emotional engagement, potentially transforming the future of video game design and player experience.