\"Beam Me 'Round, Scotty!\": Studying Asymmetry and Interdependence in a Prototype Cooperative Game

In \"Beam Me 'Round, Scotty!\", pairs of players engage with asymmetric gameplay mechanics and interfaces (e.g. leading vs. support, action vs. strategy, gamepad vs. mouse interaction) in a cooperative adventure to escape a hostile alien world. \"Beam Me 'Round, Scotty!\" presents a multi-faceted play experience designed to bridge differences in player skills, styles, and interests. By introducing deliberate interdependence through asymmetry, different types of players can come together and have fun overcoming obstacles, defeating enemies, and escaping the alien planet via their unique contributions.