Johann Sebastian Joust

BACKGROUND, Field, Context, Research Question Both HCI researchers and the mainstream games industry are increasingly experimenting with physical and tangible game technologies (e.g. machine vision, gyroscopes, smartwatches). However, these games often focus on the physical interaction between player and controller. Thinking beyond familiar videogames, we might also examine folk games and sport for physical-digital design inspiration. JS Joust looks beyond existing motion control games to ask: can we coax players into physically interacting with each other, in the world in front of the screen, and why might we do so? CONTRIBUTION Innovation, New Knowledge JS Joust is a multiplayer game played with PS Move Controllers. The game is played without a screen, and instead uses sound, music, LEDs, accelerometers, and rumble. Wilson was the programmer and designer, and also used sound by Nifflas. Unlike most commercial motion control games, JS Joust has players physically interact with each other. Players defend their own controller from being jostled while pushing and pulling their opponents to eliminate them. In contrast to folk games and sports, the game uses lights and silly music to set the right mood and playfully encourage physical interaction. Instead of eschewing the risks of play between human bodies, JS Joust embraces that physicality. Players must negotiate how much physicality is appropriate, based on the context and people playing. SIGNIFICANCE, Evidence of Excellence JS Joust pioneered a new approach to physicality in videogames, pointing to new artistic and social possibilities for the medium. The game is a literal textbook example in Tracy Fullerton's "Game Design Workshop" and NYU's Games 101 class. The game won the Innovation Award and the 2012 Game Developers Choice Awards and was a finalist at IGF, PAX10, and IndieCade. It has been exhibited internationally at museums such as Art Gallery of Ontario and Hong Kong Arts Centre.