Trait Mindfulness and player experience

Mindfulness in a general sense is defined as being in the present without having thoughts about past or future. In this study, we have investigated the effect of trait mindfulness on gameplay experience. Specifically, we examined the associations between trait mindfulness and engagement, enjoyment and competence after a game session. Participants (N = 102) first completed a questionnaire packet, and then played a fast-paced video game developed for the purpose of this study (while being eye tracked). Finally, they completed another questionnaire to assess their player experience. Results showed that trait mindfulness was negatively associated with engagement, but positively associated with competence. There was no significant relationship between mindfulness and player enjoyment. The theoretical implications for the unexpected negative association between mindfulness and engagement and the planned future efforts of this work in progress are discussed