Desarrollo de un prototipo de videojuego tipo metroidvania en principios cognitivo-conductuales para la representación de conflictos psicosociales

Abstract

This study presents the development of a two-dimensional metroidvania video game prototype whose purpose is to integrate principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy into the design of the narrative, game mechanics, and levels to represent human characteristics without entering the clinical field, promoting players’ personal reflection on these characteristics. The proposal arises from the need to explore new ways of taking advantage of the expressive potential of video games by incorporating psychological principles into the interactive experience. An iterative development methodology was implemented in Unity, together with the Mechanics, Dynamics, and Aesthetics (MDA) framework as a guide for the design, with the support of a professional psychologist to ensure the appropriate conceptualization and adaptation of psychological principles into boss mechanics, traps, and environments. The video game incorporates exploration, combat, and environmental storytelling, structured around thematic areas and bosses that represent human characteristics such as anger and manipulation. It was validated through playtesting sessions and user experience evaluation to analyze the consistency between the implemented mechanics, the narrative, and players' perceptions. It is concluded that video games can contribute to the interactive representation of psychological concepts and encourage personal reflection.