Master's Thesis: Voice interaction in digital games for health and wellness

This paper is a culmination of my master's thesis, a long work spanning years, into one of my lifelong favorite subjects: videogames.

Together with my advisor, I got to investigate how voice interaction can enhance digital games across three distinct scenarios: game-to-player (AI characters speaking to players), player-to-player (voice chat and communication), and player-to-game (voice commands and input). The research particularly explored opportunities for health and wellness applications, with focus on accessibility features for players with mobility limitations and therapeutic contexts for mental health and rehabilitation.

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Research methodology and contribution

This research conducted systematic literature review of existing voice mechanics in games, analyzed design patterns, and evaluated technical challenges. It also mapped the current implementations and identified gaps in voice interaction design for serious games. Finally, it proposed evidence-based design guidelines addressing feedback loops, toxicity management in voice chat, and scenario-specific customizations for health-focused game applications.

International publication and presentation

I went to Athens, Greece, to present the research findings at IEEE SeGAH 2023 (Serious Games and Applications for Health). It was an intense 6 days on shinning eurosummer. I got to meet researchers from around the world, and network with like minded folks. By the way, did you see that photo of me presenting and me at the top of the Acropole? I was nervous that day, and it was a blazing hot 35oC over at the Acropole.

My research demonstrated that well-designed voice mechanics foster deeper immersion, improve accessibility for players with physical limitations, and create meaningful opportunities for health interventions through gaming.

Bachelor's Thesis: GLIMPSE framework for evaluating gaming experiences

Designed a conceptual framework (GLIMPSE) for evaluating gaming experiences by synthesizing Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience constructs specific to digital games. The framework provided structured evaluation criteria for game design quality and player experience.

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Validation and impact

Tested framework applicability through comprehensive questionnaire distributed across gaming communities, collecting 241 valid responses. Statistical analysis revealed significant insights into how age and gender influence gaming experiences and preferences. First submitted to WiPlay Workshop at IHC'19 conference, where it was selected as best work. Based on this recognition, I was invited to publish an extended version in the Journal on Interactive Systems (JIS) by the Brazilian Computing Society (SBC).

Academic rigor and methodology

Both research projects demonstrated proficiency in scientific method application: literature review, hypothesis formulation, controlled data collection, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and academic writing for peer-reviewed venues. The work bridges theoretical HCI concepts with practical applications in game design and interactive systems.