Bias Blaster – Aiding Cognitive Bias Modification- Interpretation through a bubble shooter induced gameflow

This paper presents the design and development of Bias Blaster. Bias Blaster is a proof-of-concept integrated bubble-shooter game with an evidence-based therapeutic intervention, i.e., Cognitive Bias Modification Interpretation (CBM-I). The game is tailor-made for patients of the Dutch national mental health organization (GGZ) recovering from a First-Episode Psychosis (FEP). Cognitive Bias Modification- Interpretation treats the self-stigma and its associated interpretation bias as experienced by patients recovering from a FEP. The amount and frequency of CBM-I items and training is regulated by the patient, through an integrated game-mechanic of the modified bubble shooter. The game implements a motivational and reinforcement paradigm, which paves the way for the use of the rigorous and demanding CBM-I therapy. Moreover, Bias Blaster exploits the natural game flow of the bubble shooter to increase resilience and adherence throughout the treatment of FEP patients. This paper presents the design and development process of the game. The lessons learned are summarized in implications for the design of serious games: design for “acceptance“ and as a “serious therapeutic”.