A Concurrent Think Aloud Study of Engagement and Usability in a Serious Game

This research presents a think-aloud study intended to examine different is-sues of engagement and usability in relation to a serious game and a more traditional online program. Results from twenty concurrent think aloud ses-sions involving a serious game called Shadow and its more traditional coun-terpart called SHADE are reported. Both programs are designed to help counsel young adults with depression and alcohol or other drug issues. An analysis of the think aloud results reveal issues related to both usability and engagement with users' concerns cycling between content or operation of the interface. The main themes emerging from the study provide an alternative design lens for creators of serious games.