Travis J. Taylor, M.A.Baylor University, Digital Specialist and Academic Consultant Daniel M. Shafer, Ph.D.Baylor University Department of Film and Digital Media Abstract This study seeks to explore the multidimensional nature of audience responses to video games. Specifically, appreciation as an audience response serves as an often overlooked but complimentary reaction to enjoyment. Appreciation describes viewer reactions to serious, meaningful and, in the case of video games, morally challenging media content. This study examines the impact of moral decision making on hedonic enjoyment and eudaimonic appreciation. In the study, 165 participants played three different game conditions (non-violent and non-morally challenging, violent ...

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