Empathy Through Play: Exploring the Prosocial Potential of Video Games
Disciplines
Other English Language and Literature
Abstract (300 words maximum)
As video games continue to evolve, so too do discussions about their psychological impact on players. While much attention has been given to the debate over whether video games incite violent tendencies, far less research has explored the opposite possibility: that games can foster empathy. The Game Narrative Lab seeks to address this gap by designing and studying games that promote prosocial behavior.
Our work centers on creating innovative, narrative-driven games that inspire empathy and kindness in players. This process involves collaboration across disciplines, with writers, artists, developers, and researchers crafting experiences that challenge dominant narratives about games and their societal effects. The art, narrative, and development teams are currently working on a game project called Alley Cat, where players play as a cat who has to help other animals in unfortunate situations. To inform our designs, we are conducting a study using Corporation Incorporated, a game developed in our lab and published by the KSU Game Studio, that explores the challenges faced by an immigrant adjusting to life in America.
Our research challenges persistent misconceptions about video games by demonstrating their potential as tools for empathy-building rather than sources of aggression. Through this work, we aim to recontextualize games as an interactive medium capable of fostering meaningful social change—one that not only entertains but also deepens players’ understanding of others.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
RCHSS - English
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Victoria Lagrange
Empathy Through Play: Exploring the Prosocial Potential of Video Games
As video games continue to evolve, so too do discussions about their psychological impact on players. While much attention has been given to the debate over whether video games incite violent tendencies, far less research has explored the opposite possibility: that games can foster empathy. The Game Narrative Lab seeks to address this gap by designing and studying games that promote prosocial behavior.
Our work centers on creating innovative, narrative-driven games that inspire empathy and kindness in players. This process involves collaboration across disciplines, with writers, artists, developers, and researchers crafting experiences that challenge dominant narratives about games and their societal effects. The art, narrative, and development teams are currently working on a game project called Alley Cat, where players play as a cat who has to help other animals in unfortunate situations. To inform our designs, we are conducting a study using Corporation Incorporated, a game developed in our lab and published by the KSU Game Studio, that explores the challenges faced by an immigrant adjusting to life in America.
Our research challenges persistent misconceptions about video games by demonstrating their potential as tools for empathy-building rather than sources of aggression. Through this work, we aim to recontextualize games as an interactive medium capable of fostering meaningful social change—one that not only entertains but also deepens players’ understanding of others.