Immersed and how? That is the question

The success of any computer game, be it recreational or educational, is dependant on the engagement of the player during the first and subsequent interactions. A literature search of desired game characteristics results in varied opinions, however they all suggest that the success of a game is increased when the immersive characteristics of that game focus the attention of the player. They state that when immersion occurs, the game motivates the player to repeatedly engage in play. This type of motivation has been described as flow. The concept of flow can be used to identify which computer games foster the persistent re-engagement of the player and eye-tracking technology can be utilized to verify player immersion. However, unless the game scaffolds the player’s abilities, this immersion will be lost and the game will fail