The effect of embodied interaction designs on flow experience: examination in VR games

Embodied interaction (EI) is a body-based interactive paradigm that has the potential to enhance the flow experience in virtual reality (VR). To examine this hypothesis, this paper distinguishes three common types of EI in VR, namely body-based, tangible, and avatar-based EI. In empirical studies 1–3, three comparative experiments were carried out to examine the respective effects of these EI modes on flow experience. Subjective and physiological data (e.g., electrodermal activity, etc.) from studies 1–2 show that the use of body-based and tangible EI leads to the enhancement of physiological arousal (an important indicator of concentration) and flow experience. Study 3 reveals the effect of avatar-based EI on flow experience. Using a high-ownership avatar is found to enhance the sense of presence and involvement, which then improves flow. This effect is only for experienced users, showing a moderating effect. The mechanism of these positive effects requires further clarification.