Computer Game Scenario Representation: A Systematic Mapping Study

Background: Game scenario is an important factor for achieving player enjoyment; consisting a key business success factor. Additionally, the production of early design artifacts is crucial for the success of the development process. However, representing scenarios is a non-trivial task: (a) multiple aspects of the game need to be visualized; and (b) there is a plethora of representation approaches, out of which the game designer needs to select from. Aim: The goal of this work is to provide a panorama of the current scenario representation approaches, to aid game engineers in selecting the most fitting scenario representation approach and understand the existing designing options. Method: We have performed a Systematic Mapping Study, using 4 digital libraries, since the main goal can be achieved through study classification. By following an established search and filtering process, we have identified 717 articles, and analyzed in detail 95. Results: Diagrams are the most common generic approach to represent scenario; Game story is the most usual part of the scenario being represented; Characters are the most common component; and Transitions are the most usual connectors. Conclusion: Researchers may get useful information for empirically investigating several game engineering aspects; whereas game engineers can efficiently select the most fitting approach.