Experiences of urban places mediated through pervasive games: An empirical study of place-based psychological responses

This study investigates how pervasive games can engender and shape relationships with urban spaces, using as a case study the Walklets game experience in the neighborhoods of Is Mirrionis and San Michele in Cagliari (Italy). Walklets is a mobile based, narrative-driven pervasive game designed to encourage exploration and engagement with real-world environments. Through a mixed-methods approach combining pre-, post-, and follow-up surveys and thematic qualitative analysis, we assess the effects on several psychological variables: restoration, engagement, serendipity, emotions, and creativity. Findings show that Walklets had a significant positive impact on participants' perception and interpretation of the urban environment, enhancing emotional engagement, spatial awareness, and cognitive appreciation of places. Although some effects diminished over time, the qualitative data reveal long lasting mnestic traces and shifts in participants' relationship with the neighborhood. The study highlights the importance of narrative immersion, serendipitous discovery, and historical context in shaping meaningful experiences of urban places. We argue that pervasive games like Walklets can serve as tools for reimagining, learning about, and emotionally connecting with urban environments, offering new modes of experiencing the city. • Pervasive games experience can enhance participants' spatial awareness and emotional engagement with urban places. • Walklets, a narrative-driven pervasive game, was tested to see how it fosters positive ties with urban spaces. • Positive effects on restoration, serendipity, and engagement were observed. • Long-lasting mnemonic and emotional traces registered three months after the experience.