Innovation and Gamification in Theme Parks: Integrating Immersive Technologies and Game Mechanics in Narrative Experiences

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5209/arab.96266
Keywords: gamification, transmedia narratives, immersive experiences, attraction design, visitor experience, theme parks

Abstract

This study examines the integration of game mechanics and immersive technologies in theme park attractions, specifically Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure, Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run, and Mario Kart Ride. The objective is to understand how these elements transform the visitor experience from passive to active participation. The methodology involved a comparative analysis of the attractions, focusing on interactivity, technology, user experience, and narrative coherence. Results indicate that advanced technologies such as motion recognition and augmented reality significantly enhance visitor engagement. Additionally, features that allow varied experiences in repeated visits increase visitor satisfaction and loyalty. The study highlights the importance of narrative integration and personalized experiences, suggesting that these elements set new standards in the theme park industry.

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Author Biographies

Elisabet Fonts González, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya

A Ph.D. in Sciences and New Technologies, she holds a degree in Audiovisual Communication. She is a lecturer and coordinator at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (CITM). She has collaborated with the University of Barcelona, the University of Vic, and ESCAC. She coordinates final degree projects, teaches, and conducts research in the animation experience line of the DiCode group, Digital Culture and Creative Technologies Research Group at CITM-UPC. The subjects she teaches in different degrees focus on the fields of 3D and 2D animation and digital art in various contexts. She provides audiovisual services to The Walt Disney Company on the ESPN sports channel in the United States.

Daniel Hurtado Torres, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya

Ph.D. in Didactics of Social Sciences, holds a degree in History, a Master's in Secondary Education Teaching, and a postgraduate degree in Screenwriting for Film and Television. Full-time lecturer at the Center for Image and Multimedia Technology (CITM), affiliated with the Polytechnic University of Catalonia. Collaborates with the University of Barcelona and the Escola Superior de Disseny (ESDi). Member of the DiCode research group, Digital Culture and Creative Technologies Research Group at CITM-UPC, and the Spanish Network of Excellence in R&D&I and Science in Video Games (RIDIVI). Advises teachers and organizations in the development of gamified proposals through various training courses. Works as a designer and screenwriter for serious games and video games with Cubus Games and RollDBox studios.

Jaume Duran Castells , Universitat de Barcelona

A Ph.D. in Audiovisual Communication, he holds a degree in Philology, Linguistics, and Art History. He is a filmmaker, essayist, and professor at the Universitat de Barcelona, and collaborates with ESCAC, ENTI, and La Salle - Universitat Ramon Llull, among others.

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Published
2024-10-31
How to Cite
Fonts González E., Hurtado Torres D. . y Duran Castells J. . (2024). Innovation and Gamification in Theme Parks: Integrating Immersive Technologies and Game Mechanics in Narrative Experiences. Área Abierta, 24(3), 239-256. https://doi.org/10.5209/arab.96266
Issue
Vol. 24 No. 3 (2024): Monográfico: Videojuegos en la comunicación: tendencias, retos y experiencias
Section
Monográfico

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