Abstract
As it stands today, PC-based video games are commonly controlled through a combination of pointing device and keyboard input. Although this conventional type of interface has a long history of successful implementation, a small group of people remains excluded due to accessibility issues. This is unfortunate, because several studies have shown that virtual environment emersion can provide great benefits to people who suffer from temporary or permanent physical disabilities. This study is aimed at developing a novel interface system that will engage this group of users in video game play by addressing and eliminating the previously mentioned accessibility issues. Through the combined input from an eye-tracking device and a data glove, people suffering from physical limitations will be given the opportunity to experience and interact with virtual environments just like any other user. During interaction with this newly developed system, eye tracking signals will replace the mouse input for on-screen pointing, and a data-glove which will replace conventional keyboard input for in-game navigation and interaction. It is expected that gamers who suffer from previously limiting physical conditions will be able to interact effectively and pleasantly through the new gaming interface, thereby enabling them to overcome their disabilities and enjoy video games just like any other user.
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