I started by learning about different hand therapy movements and the medical issues they address, especially for children with hemiplegia. My research involved looking into various therapy techniques and tools that help improve motion and flexibility. This step was crucial to understand what really works in hand therapy and laid the groundwork for my next steps in the project.
I designed game controllers that transform physical therapy into an engaging part of gameplay. This approach begins with therapeutic exercises recommended by caregivers or physical therapists, which I converted into simple game control movements such as pressing, moving sideways, and rotating. These movements are vital for therapy and enhance the gaming experience. To validate and refine these concepts, I created two cardboard prototypes focused on sideways movements. Testing these prototypes allowed me to fine-tune the controls, ensuring they are both fun and effective for therapy.In this section, I showcase the rotating movement controller I designed for wrist therapy, demonstrating how these specialized controls facilitate game navigation and make physical therapy enjoyable for children.
This section highlights the sideways movement prototype, showcasing its role in therapeutic exercises. The modular design allows for the integration of a stick from another controller, enhancing adaptability and ensuring flexibility in supporting various rehabilitation needs.
In designing the game, I created various environments to keep the gameplay engaging and visually appealing. For instance, one of the environments is a cave where players need to use the press controller to make their characters jump over rocks. Another scenario involves navigating a rocket to collect gems, which requires sideways movements. These settings were developed to spark curiosity and encourage interaction, essential for aiding motor skill development. They also help keep the game exciting and fresh, avoiding the repetition often found in traditional therapy sessions.
In this game, I introduced a monkey named Ricky who travels through various game settings. Ricky's adventure involves collecting bananas and gems. He uses the bananas to stay energized and the gems to buy upgrades or unlock new areas. This system offers clear goals and rewards, keeping the game exciting by constantly introducing new environments. Each level is designed to be unique and appealing, making sure the gameplay stays interesting and doesn’t become repetitive over time. This approach helps maintain children’s interest, encouraging them to explore further and discover what each new level has to offer, thereby enhancing their overall enjoyment and engagement with the therapy.
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