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Video Games and Emotional Resonance

By proceeding with this survey, you consent to participate. This survey is completely anonymous and voluntary. You may skip any question or stop at any time. This brief survey explores how video games create emotional experiences and what makes certain games memorable or meaningful to players.

Game Experiences

Can you name 1-3 video games that have stayed with you or felt meaningful? (Just the titles - no need to explain why yet)

What made these games memorable to you? (Examples: story, characters, gameplay, music, themes, etc.)

Game Design & Emotional Impact

What elements in games do you think create emotional experiences? (Examples: narrative choices, character relationships, music, visuals, game mechanics, pacing, etc.)

Do certain game genres feel more emotionally engaging to you than others? If so, which ones and why?

Have you ever played a game that changed your perspective on something or made you think differently?

Have you ever played a game that changed your perspective on something or made you think differently?
A
B
C
D

If yes, what was it about the game that created that shift? (No need to share what changed, just what about the game prompted reflection)

Character & Narrative Connection

Have you ever felt connected to or invested in a video game character?

Have you ever felt connected to or invested in a video game character?
A
B
C
D

If yes, what made that character resonate with you? (Examples: their personality, their struggles, their relationships, their growth, etc.)

Do you prefer games with predetermined stories or games where you shape the narrative through your choices?

Do you prefer games with predetermined stories or games where you shape the narrative through your choices?
A
B
C
D

Games & Expression

Have you ever felt that a game gave you permission to explore emotions or experiences in a way you don't usually in daily life?

Have you ever felt that a game gave you permission to explore emotions or experiences in a way you don't usually in daily life?
A
B
C
D

If yes, what about the game allowed for that exploration? (Examples: anonymity, role-playing, distance from reality, safe space, etc.)

In your opinion, what makes a game feel "emotionally safe" or comfortable to engage with?

Representation & Relatability

Do you think representation in games (of different identities, experiences, or emotions) affects how engaging or meaningful they are?

Do you think representation in games (of different identities, experiences, or emotions) affects how engaging or meaningful they are?
A
B
C
D
E
F

What kinds of stories, themes, or character experiences would you like to see more of in video games?

General Gaming Reflections

How do you think video games compare to other media (movies, books, TV) in their ability to create emotional experiences?

If you could design a game focused on emotional experiences or human connection, what would it explore?

Optional Demographics

What is your age range?

What is your age range?
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E
F
G

How long have you been playing video games?

How long have you been playing video games?
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B
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D

What region do you currently live in?

What region do you currently live in?
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B
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D
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F
Thank you!