Playtesting Perspectives: A Tabletop RPG for Multi-stakeholder UX Learning
8th International Conference on HCI in Games, HCI-Games 2026, held as part of the 28th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction, HCII 2026, Montreal, Canada, 26 - 31 July 2026, vol.16740 LNCS, pp.134-153, (Full Text)
- Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
- Volume: 16740 LNCS
- Doi Number: 10.1007/978-3-032-30408-7_8
- City: Montreal
- Country: Canada
- Page Numbers: pp.134-153
- Keywords: Game-Based Learning, Multi-Stakeholder, RPGs, Systems Thinking, UX Education
- Yıldız Technical University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
As smart products, algorithmic systems, and data-driven platforms become increasingly integrated into everyday life, design problems exhibit growing complexity. These challenges arise within multi-stakeholder ecosystems shaped by competing interests and interdependent responsibilities, involving both human and non-human actors. In response to this complexity, this study introduces a tabletop role-playing game prototype designed to support systems thinking, collaborative negotiation, and perspective-taking in UX education. The research explores how design students experienced and reflected on these dimensions through a multi-stakeholder role-play derived from real-world design contexts. Conducted within a Design-Based Research framework, the study employed a mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative analyses of post-experience survey data to gain a holistic understanding of participant reflections. Findings indicate that the game enhance strong engagement, perspective-taking, and collaboration, helping students connect theoretical UX principles with experiential learning. By framing the tabletop role-play as an integrated learning system, the study contributes to HCI and game-based learning, offering design insights for UX education and a foundation for future tools.