Studying Cartographic Game Maps: Video Game Maps Matter.

Maps are critical elements of video games that provide an alternative representation of the game world. While navigation is considered an essential function of game maps, they play additional selective roles in and have multiple functions that influence players’ experiences. To refine our understanding of the complexity and intricacies of their design, we conducted a thematic analysis of online posts dedicated to this subject. In these posts, authors share their understanding of and critical perspectives on video game maps. Our findings illustrate aspects of the cartographic process. We first show how maps work as information systems. Then, aesthetics and usability are introduced as salient facets of their design. We further highlight playful aspects and how maps work as ludonarrative devices. We believe that designers will benefit from our analysis, helping them to craft innovative games and entertaining cartographic experiences. Lastly, we further outline a new research agenda dedicated that domain.