  XBadges is a research project based on the hypothesis that commercial video
games (nonserious games) can train soft skills. We measure persistence, spatial
reasoning and risk taking before and after subjects participate in controlled
game playing sessions. In addition, we have developed an automatic facial
expression recognition system capable of inferring their emotions while
playing, allowing us to study the role of emotions in soft skills acquisition.
We have used Flappy Bird, Pacman and Tetris for assessing changes in
persistence, risk taking and spatial reasoning respectively. Results show how
playing Tetris significantly improves spatial reasoning and how playing Pacman
significantly improves prudence in certain areas of behavior. As for emotions,
they reveal that being concentrated helps to improve performance and skills
acquisition. Frustration is also shown as a key element. With the results
obtained we are able to glimpse multiple applications in areas which need soft
skills development.
