Brain-Computer Interfaces - One Possible Future for How We Play

Explore the potential future of gaming through Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) in this 2019 GDC talk by Valve's Mike Ambinder. Delve into the world of BCI research and its applications for game developers, covering topics such as physiological signal acquisition, current generation interfaces, and control schemes. Discover how BCIs could revolutionize player experiences through adaptive gameplay, emotion recognition, and direct human-system interactions. Learn about the challenges and potential improvements in game design, including adaptive enemies, teammates, and rewards. Examine the possibilities of removing traditional input devices and directly translating human intent into system responses. Consider the implications of brain stimulation in gaming while acknowledging the challenges and caveats of this emerging technology.

Intro
Talk Overview
BCI Definition
Physiological Signal Acquisition
Current Generation Interfaces
Current Control Schemes - Summary
Imagine an Ideal Interface
Potential Improvements
Improved Player Experience?
BCI Introduction
What Are We Measuring
Physiological Signals
BCI Roadmap
Traditional Playtesting Approaches
Downsides of Current Approaches
Adaptive Gameplay
Positive vs. Negative Emotion
Adaptive Enemies
Adaptive Teammates
Adaptive Rewards
Interface Replacements
Remove The Middle-Man
Human Intent To System Response
System Response To Human Intent
Brain Stimulation
Challenges (and Caveats)