Usability Analysis of Gesture Interaction in Virtual Cycling Games Based on Flow Theory

Abstract

Virtual cycling has been increasingly implemented across various fields, including healthcare, fitness and gaming, providing a more immersive and engaging exercise experience. The authenticity of virtual cycling games relies on effective human-computer interaction, with gesture interaction demonstrating significant potential in virtual fitness applications. Currently, these games primarily utilize traditional controller interactions, requiring users to stop cycling, which results in low operational efficiency and interruptions in movement continuity. This study aims to explore user operational needs in virtual cycling games and to compare the efficacy of gesture interaction with controller interaction, thereby validating the advantages of gesture interaction. We developed a virtual cycling game using Unreal Engine, incorporating both interaction modes, and established an experimental platform to record players' speed, heart rate, and other physiological data in real time, as well as to gather user experience assessments from subjects following the experiment. The findings indicate that gesture interaction significantly enhances operational efficiency and facilitates continuity in cycling, thereby improving training outcomes. Additionally, gesture interaction fosters a more immersive flow experience. Therefore, gesture interaction in virtual fitness games can substantially elevate both user experience and exercise efficiency.

Keywords: Gesture Interaction, User Experience, Immersive Exergame, Flow Theory

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005887