Comparison Between Custom and Non-custom Serious Games Poststroke

Comparison of Activity Intensity, Performance, and User's Experience Between Custom and Non-custom Serious Games Combined With Balance Boards for Persons After Stroke

Serious games for rehabilitation are delivered through systems that are either customised or non-customised. Custom serious games allow for control of feedback, setting of game speed and difficulty, while non-custom games are less adaptable but provide attractive graphics and sounds. The study compared the activity intensity and user experience of persons after stroke while playing custom and non-custom virtual reality balance games that were both game- and self-paced.

Persons in chronic phase poststroke will play 12 games (6 self- and 6 game-paced games) over two sessions (in randomised order). Within each game-type, custom and non-custom games will be played in random order. All games will be played on a balance board, whereby each pair of a custom and non-custom game will require comparable movement directions of the center of pressure. The custom system will be compared to the non-custom system in terms of number of repetitions, movement amplitude, users' enjoyment, flow state, likeability and perception of exertion.

Inclusion Criteria:

• chronic phase (>6 months) after stroke
• ability to walk with supervision or independently with or without walking aid on flat ground or all surfaces
• stable health condition
• ability to follow simple instructions

Exclusion Criteria:

• additional neurological condition
• musculoskeletal impairments that would interfere with execution of the required tasks or completing the questionnaires