Data_Sheet_2_Virtual play and real connections: unpacking the impact of rice farming simulation video games.csv

This study investigates how the rice farming simulation video game Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin affects interest in real-world agriculture and the inclination to start farming amidst Japan’s declining farming population. We surveyed 428 Japanese residents, including not only game players but also those who watch the game live or are merely aware of its existence. We also interviewed an individual who started rice farming after playing the game. The findings indicate that the game successfully stimulates greater interest in agriculture and somewhat motivates players to consider farming, more than just viewers or those who are aware of it. Moreover, individuals with real-life connections to agriculture, such as farming experience or professional connections, were optimistic about the transition from game to reality. The study suggests that rice farming simulation games can foster expectations of developing an interest in agriculture and potentially embarking on farming careers, demonstrating the game’s significant impact beyond entertainment.

本研究聚焦日本农业人口持续下滑的时代背景，探讨农耕模拟视频游戏《天穗之咲稻姬》（Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin）对受众现实务农兴趣及创业务农意愿的影响。本研究共招募428名日本居民作为调查样本，覆盖群体不仅包括该游戏的直接玩家，还涵盖观看过游戏直播的观众以及仅知晓该游戏存在的人群。此外，本研究还访谈了一位在游玩该游戏后投身水稻种植的个体。研究结果显示，相较于仅观看游戏直播或仅知晓该游戏的人群，该游戏能够有效激发受众对农业的更高兴趣，并在一定程度上推动玩家萌生务农考量。进一步分析表明，具备农业相关现实联结（如拥有务农经历或从事农业相关职业）的个体，更乐于实现从游戏体验到现实务农的身份转换。本研究表明，水稻农耕模拟游戏能够培育人们对农业的兴趣，并助力其潜在投身务农事业，彰显了该类游戏超越娱乐属性的重要社会价值。