Kohler, W. Paul (2012) The creative processes in video game development : a model set illustrating the creative processes with theoretical and practical implications. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

Preview

PDF WRAP_THESIS_Kohler_2012.pdf - Submitted Version - Requires a PDF viewer such as GSview, Xpdf or Adobe Acrobat Reader Download (3424Kb)

Abstract

This thesis sets out to examine the creative process in developing large TV console video games. Using methods based on the philosophy of Grounded Theory, interviews were conducted at four game development studios. From these interviews and the extant literature, a Model Set was constructed to reflect the creative process. The underlying premise of the Model Set is that a Darwinian process of variation, selection, and retention, is the kernel of the creating process. The Model Set is comprised of four components: a rigorous domain specific definition of the creative process, a defined perspective, a Core Creating Model, and a Creative Continuum. The Core Creating Model is the mechanism of the creating process, while the Creative Continuum provides a platform to evaluate the video game in terms of the creative definition. Following from the Model Set are four key research findings as contributions to knowledge and current research directions. These findings are: 1) Creativity is not all about ideas, as commonly perceived. Decision-making is a fundamental element of creativity, 2) The Core Creating Mechanism provides a distinction between Creativity and Discovery, while placing both within an understandable context, 3) The Model Set challenges the common assumption that more creativity is better, 4) The creative process is structured in multiple ways. It is of critical importance to understand these difference structures when researching and managing the creative process. The creative process in video game development is not monotonic: it is bimodal, that is, there is creativity both at the beginning and at the conclusion of the development process. Not all creative processes follow this pattern. The Model Set and four key research findings are a contribution to knowledge as they expand and deepen our understanding of the creative process. From these findings, the thesis discusses the theoretical and practical implications of the research.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (PhD)
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Video games -- Design, Creative ability in technology
Date:	January 2012
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Centre for Cultural Policy Studies
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Bilton, Chris
Sponsors:	Codemasters (Firm) ; International Development Group (Firm) ; Far Sight Studios (Firm) ; University of Warwick. Centre for Cultural Policy Studies
Extent:	xiii, 304 leaves : ill.
Language:	eng
URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/45392

Request changes to a record

Actions (login required)

View Item