Overview

As the prevalence of Mixed Reality (MR) head-mounted displays (HMDs) grows, the context of collocated MR gaming is evolving from private, controlled environments to spontaneous, public settings, echoing speculative fiction scenarios. Everyday locales are thus transformed into potential gaming stages, blurring the line between designated play areas and the public realm. This evolution prompts the need for game designs that cater to all present individuals, including HMD players ("Wizards") and non-HMD bystanders ("Muggles"). Addressing this scantily researched field, we developed the Multiplayer Omnipresent Fighting Arena (MOFA) framework, utilizing device asymmetry and role diversification as affordance to actively engage every participant. MOFA's MR game prototypes—The Training, The Duel, The Duck, The Dragon, and the Ghost—demonstrate through empirical studies indicate that MOFA involving "Muggles" strategically not only enhances social engagement but also diminishes social awkwardness, leading to a shared reality that is more inclusive and entertaining in public space.

MOFA was honored as the "Best Interactivity Demo" at CHI 2023 and "Best In The Show" at SIGGRAPH 2024.