Ang makabagong laro: a phenomenological study of Filipino computer gamers' lived experiences and perspective

Abstract

This study entitled “Ang Makabagong Laro: A Phenomenological Study of Filipino Computer Gamers’ Lived Experiences and Perspective” is a phenomenological study that explored the lived experiences of the Filipino gamers inside the computer shop. Using qualitative methods such as participant observation, in-depth interview, and casual interview, the study provided a thick description of the experiences and perspective of the gamers. Using thematic analyses, 11 themes are produced; 8 of these themes identify the people usally involved in gaming and described their experiences; 1 theme described the whole process of the gaming experience from the beginning till the end, and 2 themes described the perspective of the gamers with their own habit of playing computer game and the essence of gaming for them. Findings showed that gamers consider a lot of factors in pursuing the habit of playing computer games. Most of the gamers consider themselves as addicts despite the positive effects of playing with their life and lastly, the essence of computer gaming for them is, it is a tool that internally satisfies them thru feeling of pleasure, feeling of belongingness and it defines their existence in the society.