BraveHearts AR – A Mobile Game to Reduce Fear in Pediatric Surgery

The BraveHearts AR project aims to integrate Augmented Reality (AR) with Child Centered Play Therapy, a well-established strategy for mitigating emotions like anxiety, fear and stress, tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of children, as the target audience. Therefore, the development of a game using AR appeared as an attractive solution to explore, serving as a tool for pediatric patients to reduce negative emotions. More specifically, providing users with the positive experiences of relaxation, fun and companionship while educating them about the pre-surgical procedures that they will undergo. To support this proposal, research about relevant subjects was conducted. A game prototype was developed using Unity software and designed for mobile devices. With this, the game comprises an introduction, a memory game focused on the playful aspect, minigames that emphasize learning about three pre-surgical procedures, a mechanism planned to keep engaged when playing, and an ending. To enhance the clarity of the medical procedures and to prioritize a positive experience, a narrative involving a buddy character that accompanies the player along the game was written. Throughout the game, the buddy introduces new characters who explain the medical procedures using simple game mechanics. Evaluations about the game's usability were conducted and the great results obtained so far are motivating to further test this game with children who are hospitalized for surgery, aiming at accessing its capability to reduce the aforementioned negative emotions.